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.

PREVENTION