Back pain is a symptom that can arise from many causes. It can range from a dull, annoying ache to absolute agony. Many cases of back pain are caused by stresses on the muscles and ligaments that support the spine. Sedentary jobs and lifestyles may create a vulnerability to this type of stress or damage. Obesity, which increases both the weight on the spine and the pressure on the discs, is another factor. Strenuous sports such as football and gymnastics can also damage the back.
Common Causes of Back pian
You’ll usually first feel back pain just after you lift a heavy object, move suddenly, sit in one position for a long time, or have an injury or accident. But prior to that moment in time, the structures in your back may be losing strength or integrity. The specific structure in your back responsible for your pain is hardly ever identified. Whether identified or not, there are several possible sources of low back pain:
Small fractures to the spine from osteoporosis
Muscle spasm (very tense muscles that remain contracted)
Ruptured or herniated disk
Degeneration of the disks
SYSTEMIC DISEASE – This disease is the cause for up to 10% of back pain and largely among the elderly. Causes could be cancer-related or related to reduced bone mass or simply the aging process. Increasing or decreasing activities as well as switching positions all may have no affect on pain relief. Alternative therapies may be in need.
Back Pain Symptoms
The most common symptom of low back pain is pain! Usually located in the middle of the lower portion of the back, the pain can be sharp, stabbing, dull, throbbing or aching. Some people experience associated pain in the buttock and or leg. This pain can be located on one side or more rarely on both sides. This is often called sciatica and is a different problem than standard low back pain. The pain can increase with movement such as bending, twisting, lifting and even walking. Frequently patients feel better when lying down and worse when standing or sitting. Certain symptoms such as urinary problems, leg or foot weakness, loss of sensation, pain lasting more than a month, sudden severe pain not related to an injury and fever or weight loss associated with back pain are reasons to seek medical treatment urgently.
Treatment of back pain
There are easy remedies for a simple back pain. More often than not, pain-relieving medications do. If the muscles are too overworked, a nice and relaxing massage will bring comfort. A hot and cold compress can also lessen the painful sensation. Some therapists also apply a low current of electricity to ease the pain.
Contrary to what people say, a painful back should not be left idle. The truth is that health experts suggest that instead of remaining still, it will help one to recover faster if he moves a little. However, an undergarment for back support should be used.
Depending on the underlying causes of one’s back pain, treatment often varies from simple therapeutic exercises to complicated surgical procedures.
Consult the doctor for painkillers which can give temporary relief. Depending on your problem, you may have to visit an osteopath or orthopedist for a permanent relief. You should exercise regularly. Ask your doctor or physiotherapist to suggest some good exercises that cure pain and get your back in good shape and action. Take special care while sitting, sleeping or moving your body.
