So, when was the last time you felt that sudden burst of pain in your back? Back pain is one of the worst problems that millions around the world suffer every day. 40% of work days missed in the USA is caused by lower back pain.
Fortunately, back pain can be treated easily if proper measures are taken and the body is given its due time to heal. Back Pain may be cervical, thoracic, lumber or sacral in nature and is categorized by its duration into acute, chronic and sub acute categories.
Symptoms of Back Pain
Back pain usually heals itself with time or pain killers can be used to accelerate the process. In rare cases, back pain can continue to persist. You might need to consult a doctor if:
- The pain is acute and constant
- The pain results in bowel and bladder problems
- The pain is accompanied by swelling on the back
- Sensation in one or the both legs
Causes of Back Pain
Back pain may occur without reason and the treatment is usually generic unless a doctor has diagnosed a specific reason. The reasons for back pain may be:
- Osteoporosis
- Arthritis
- Bone irregularities
- Cracked disks
Risk Factors
There is no specific reason for back pain and any person can be affected by it. But people suffering from depression and anxiety issues are at a greater risk of having back pain.
Tests and Examination:
Diagnostic tests are not necessary for the treatment of back pain. But after an assessment by the doctor, one of the following tests might be conducted:
- X-ray
- Bone Scan
- Nerve Studies
- Computerized Tomography
How to Treat Back Pain
Back Pain usually settles in time, but if the pain persists, consult your doctor. Moreover, until you do, it may be a good idea to stop exercise that may be causing the pain.
Painkillers are one of the first medicines prescribed by doctors to treat back pain. It is very important for you to understand how pain might recur and what necessary precautions must be taken to avoid it. Information about pain management helps you to stay fit and healthy, avoid depression and deal with fatal injuries.
Exercise is a great way to promote healthy bones and live a pain-free life. Exercise not only strengthens your muscles, but also increases your flexibility and improves your posture. Particular exercises can help you to prevent and treat back pain.
If the pain continues to throb up and down your legs. The doctor might inject an anti-inflammatory medicine around the nerve’s roots to treat the back pain.
Surgery is the last resort for the treatment of back pain. Surgery is usually done to deal with anatomical problems may be causing the back pain and could not be solved by other therapies.
Alternative Medicine
Alternative therapies have proven to be very popular in treating back pain. However, you should consult your doctor before starting any new treatment. Some of the alternative remedies are:
- Chiropractic care
- Acupuncture
- Massage
- Yoga
Precautions
Precautions for a healthy back will require you to use your body mechanics suavely. This is a healthy ritual for your back, and as well as your personality. These small changes in your lifestyle can help you go a long way.
Whenever standing, try to stand straight and take small breaks by pacing around in small intervals. While sitting, make sure you choose a seat with good back support and if you have back pain, make sure you avoid any twisting motions while lifting heavy items.
