WHAT IS BACK PAIN? 

Pain in the upper or lower back, it is a leading cause of disability, temporarily mostly.Most people have back pain at least once in a while for which they have to consult a doctor.  

Back pain can be caused due to several factors such as trauma or injury, muscular or ligament strain, arthritis, spinal cord problems, arthritis, skeletal irregularities or osteoporosis

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF BACK PAIN? 

• Muscle ache

• Shooting or stabbing pain

• Pain that radiates down the leg

• Pain that worsens with bending, lifting, standing or walking

• Pain that improves with reclining

DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT 

Diagnosis : The Doctor will physically assess the problem with the back such as ability to sit, stand, walk and lift up legs. If there is reason to suspect that a specific condition is causing the back pain, some additional tests may be required like: X-ray, MRI or CT scans, Blood tests, Bone scan, Nerve studies (EMG) among others.  

Treatment : For acute back pain, over-the-counter pain relievers and the use of heat might be all that is required. Avoid activities that increase the pain. The Doctor may prescribe the following based on the diagnosis:  

• Medications ( pain relievers, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs  

• Topical pain relievers

• Narcotics , Antidepressants, Injections 

• Physiotherapy and exercises

• Surgery, if needed

IMPORTANT INFORMATION 

1. Most back pains gradually improve with rest and home treatment.In rare cases, back pain can lead to a serious medical problem. Seek immediate medical care if your back pain:

• causes new bowel or bladder problems

• is accompanied by fever

• follows a fall, blow to your back or other injury

• spreads down one or both legs

• causes weakness, numbness or tingling in one or both legs

• is accompanied by unexplained weight loss

• have a history of cancer, osteoporosis, steroid use, or excessive drug or alcohol use

• spinal degeneration or injury 

2. Risk Factors: Although anyone can develop back pain, old age,  sedentary lifestyle,obesity,diseases like arthritis, cancer, depression , anxiety, smoking add up to its risk factors. 

3. Prevention: Back pain can be avoided or its recurrence prevented by improving the physical condition. To keep your back healthy and strong:

• Exercise

• Build muscle strength and flexibility 

• Quit smoking

• Shred excess weight 

• Avoid movements that twist or strain your back

• Maintain good posture. Sit, Stand, Lift smart