Back pain is a common complaint among most people, and it disrupts their daily lives. The pain occurs in the back vertebrae due to several reasons such as osteoarthritis, weakened muscles, herniated disc, and bad posture. It is crucial to identify the cause of back pain to get the appropriate treatment. Doctors at Elite Physical Medicine treat neck and back pain in Mason after a diagnosis. Here is everything you need to know about back pain, including causes and treatment.
Herniated disc
A herniated disc is one of the major causes of back pain. Even though it can affect any part of your spine, it is most common in the lumbar region. Possible complications of a herniated disc are associated with nerve compression, and when this happens, it can lead to pain that radiates to your legs, back, head, and neck.
Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis can cause neck stiffness, headaches, and pain in your back. Lumbar osteoarthritis causes the discs to wear out and increase pressure in your vertebrae. As a result, most people report excess pain when walking. Your doctor may recommend exercise to prevent stiffness in your vertebrae.
Spinal Stenosis
Spinal stenosis occurs due to a narrowing of the spinal cord, thereby causing pressure on your nerves. Consequently, it leads to numbness of your legs and arms, and your back may occasionally ache.
Accidents
Motor accidents or falls can lead to fractures and back pain. In addition, lifting heavy objects can twist your spine and lead to injuries. If the pain is not severe, you can try over-the-counter pain medication; however, you may seek medical attention if it does not disappear within 2 to 3 days.
Lifestyle choices
Lack of exercise and obesity can lead to strain in your back muscles. In addition, lifting bulky and heavy items can strain your back muscles and cause pain. Even though it is a rare cause, back pain is also associated with stress, depression, or anxiety.
Diagnosis and Treatment
It is vital to seek treatment for back pain if it interferes with your everyday life and activity. Your doctor seeks to establish the real cause of the pain at the medical facility before recommending treatment. The assessment is comprehensive and may involve x-rays, especially if a herniated disc and spinal stenosis cause back pain.
After a diagnosis, the specialist recommends different treatments such as osteopathy, physiotherapy, massage, and muscle strengthening. If the pain is too much to handle, your doctor prescribes pain medication to offer relief. In the case of a herniated disc or spinal stenosis, the specialist may recommend surgery.
Also, several tips can help you cope and manage chronic pain, and these include good posture, using a high-quality mattress, not wearing too-high heels, and regular workouts. In addition, you should refrain from lifting heavy objects that can cause a strain on your back.
Back pain is a serious condition that requires urgent diagnosis and treatment. Book an appointment with your specialists at Elite Physical Medicine for a comprehensive assessment.
