Back Pain: Causes, Treatments and Prevention Tips
Back pain is the second most common reason people see a doctor for pain. Those at risk for back pain are those who sit for long periods of time, are overweight, lack overall fitness, bend or lift a lot, and just the normal aging process. Of course there is the back pain associated with over doing activities like sports, or events like moving day.
Most of us suffer from back pain from time to time. Those who experience back pain for longer than 3 months are considered chronic back pain sufferers and should be under the care of a physician.
Those who are overweight can experience back pain due to the strain the extra weight up front puts on the back muscles. Pregnancy can also cause back pain because of the added pregnancy weight. No matter what the reason for your back pain, there are ways to bring relief. There are also things we can do to prevent back pain in the future.
SOME PHYSICAL CAUSES OF BACK PAIN:
- a strain caused by poor muscle conditioning prior to being overworked
- a sprain from an abrupt action that injures a ligament
- a herniated disk which is a common cause of sciatica
- SOME RARE CAUSES OF BACK PAIN:
- Atherosclerosis
- Gall-bladder disease
- Endometriosis
- Cervical cancer
TREATMENT FOR BACK PAIN
Usually back pain will go away on it’s own, but there are things you can do to alleviate your pain. You can use medications such as anti-inflammatory medications or muscle relaxants. You can also apply an ice pack covered with a light cloth for back spasms. A light massage helps to relieve spasms too. A hot bath or a whirlpool is good for stiffness in the back. Back pain that is really bad requires a physician, as steroid shots may be necessary. A very last resort should be the consideration of surgery.
Bed rest is usually not recommended for back pain, as being inactive can actually cause back pain to worsen or stiffness may occur. It is actually beneficial to do light activity to keep muscles warm. Do not do heavy lifting, bending, twisting or stooping until your back pain has stopped. Do not engage in any activities that will jolt or put strain on your back until you are completely pain free. Moreover, even after all this you are unable to get rid of your pain you can consult a doctor that will assess your problem and recommend you a proper treatment. You have several pain management doctor in Austin that you can meet.
PREVENTION
It is important to keep your muscles strong and flexible by exercising regularly and warming up prior to ding sports or exercising.
Lift carefully by standing close to the object you are going to lift, and with your feet shoulder-width apart, bend your knees (not your waist), tighten up your stomach muscles and lift with your legs as you slowly stand up. Remember to ask for help when you need to lift awkward or heavy objects.
When you are sitting, remember to take frequent breaks to stand or walk around. Sit with your head and shoulders erect and use supports like pillows for your back. You can also roll-up a towel and place at the small of your back to help relieve tired back muscles.
WHEN TO SEE A PHYSICIAN
You should seek medical advice if your back pain or inflammation lasts longer than 72 hours.
If you are unable to move or stand upright, you should see your physician.
If you experience any bleeding from the rectum while experiencing back pain or painful urination you should also seek a physician’s care as these additional symptoms may be signs of infection or other diseases.
Keep these prevention tips in mind and your future will contain less pain. Remember to ask for help when faced with heavy lifting and be good to your back prior to participating in sports or exercsing by warming up. See a physician if back pain lasts longer than 72 hours or you can not stand upright or move while experiencing back pain. Being smart about back pain will save you a lot of aggrevation and painful moments.
