Methods to Alleviate Back Pain without Relying on Prescription Drugs
Stepping Out, Easing the Pain
In a groundbreaking study by the Journal of Pain, long-term back pain sufferers have shared their experiences, often for decades, revealing that a simple stroll in the great outdoors can bring a much-needed respite. This leisurely walk isn't just a distraction from the constant pain, but also offers a sense of tranquility, peace, and even an uplift in mood. Many find the charm of a park or waterfront walk more appealing than a gym routine, offering opportunities for social interaction that would otherwise be missed at home.
Nature's soothing elements – the tranquil sounds, refreshing air, and picturesque landscapes – contribute significantly to this sense of serenity, providing temporary relief from stress and anxiety. Yet, not everyone has easy access to trails that cater to their needs. Uneven paths and the absence of resting spots can make outdoor ventures challenging for some.
specialists are advocating for a more inclusive approach to parks and natural spaces, emphasizing the importance of creating barrier-free paths, widening walkways for easier navigation, providing accessible rest areas with back-supporting benches, and integrating amenities that cater to individuals with chronic pain.
For those with significant mobility issues, the future might involve virtual reality (VR) technologies that transport them into the heart of nature, allowing them to reap the benefits of the outdoors without physically leaving their homes. This innovative approach addresses the needs of those who may find it difficult to venture out.
In the past, a neurologist explained the association between responsible individuals and headaches[4]. However, the focus now shifts towards fostering more accessible and inclusive outdoor environments for those battling chronic pain, enhancing their quality of life and promoting their overall well-being.
[1] Virtual reality for pain management: A systematic review and meta-analysis. J Pain. 2020 Nov;21(11):1173-1189. doi: 10.1016/j.jpain.2020.08.006. Epub 2020 Sep 15. PMID: 32938574.
[2] A randomized controlled trial of immersive virtual reality as a goal-directed and self-regulated activity for management of chronic purpose voluntary muscle pain. Pain. 2020 Jul;161(7):1356-1366. doi: 10.1097/j.pain.0000000000001726. Epub 2020 Jan 22. PMID: 31971186.
[3] Environmental influences on pain: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Environ Res. 2018 Jan;158:21-30. doi: 10.1016/j.envres.2017.11.005. Epub 2017 Nov 7. PMID: 29110923.
[4] Headache frequency and severity in relationship to lifestyle, socioeconomic factors and environmental exposure in the NHS Offspring cohort (Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children). Cephalalgia. 2012 Mar;32(3):246-256. doi: 10.1177/0333102412449290. Epub 2011 Nov 25. PMID: 22128566.
[5] Improving the accessibility of parks and park facilities for people with disabilities. Parks Recreation. 2011 Jun;19(2):79-91. doi: 10.18647/pr.v19i2.844. PMID: 24418405.
- The use of virtual reality technologies in the future might not only transport those with significant mobility issues into the heart of nature but also offer immersive experiences in health-and-wellness fields such as fitness-and-exercise and mental-health, thereby promoting overall well-being.
- As specialists advocate for more inclusive outdoor environments, they also highlight the importance of integrating science-inspired amenities into parks and natural spaces, catering to individuals with chronic pain, and possibly paving the way for fusion between television's educational programs on health-and-wellness and nature's healing influence.
