Overview:
Back pain is the most common issue nowadays according to a general survey report mostly 35 years or older people have this issue.
This is one of the most common reasons people go to the doctor or miss work, and it is a leading cause of disability worldwide.
It can be the result of trauma, such as a fall or a car accident.
But most often back pain is the result of an everyday activity done incorrectly — activities as common as twisting to reach or lift an object, sitting at a computer in the same position for hours, bending over to vacuum, and carrying shopping bags.
Four out of five people experience back problems at some point, making it the second most common reason for visiting the doctor.
This type of pain takes various forms, from a persistent dull ache to sudden sharp pain, and has many causes.
Sometimes it results from a sprain, fracture, or other accidental injuries.
It can stem from a disease or medical condition, such as arthritis, fibromyalgia, or spinal stenosis.
Many people develop back pain in part because they’re overweight or sedentary.
Lower Back pain Symptoms:
These might range from a dull ache to a stabbing or shooting sensation. The pain may make it hard to move or stand up straight.
Pain that comes on suddenly is “acute.” It might happen during sports or heavy lifting.
Pain that lasts more than 3 months is considered “chronic.” If your pain is not better within 72 hours, you should consult a doctor.
Back pain can have many symptoms, including:
- a decreased range of motion and diminished ability to flex the back
- a stabbing or shooting pain that can radiate down the leg to the foot
- an inability to stand up straight
- a dull aching sensation in the lower back
The symptoms of pain, if due to strain or misuse, are usually short-lived but can last for days or weeks.
Back pain is chronic when symptoms have been present for longer than three months.
Causes of Back Pain:
The segments of the spine are cushioned with cartilage-like pads called disks.
Problems with any of these components can lead to pain. In some cases, the cause remains unclear.
The human back is composed of a complex structure of muscles, ligaments, tendons, disks, and bones, which work together to support the body and enable us to move around.
Damage can result from strain, medical conditions, and poor posture, among others.
Posture:
The back provides optimal support when we stand properly and do not slouch. Sitting with proper support for the low back with shoulders back and even a footrest can prevent pain.
The proper balance on the feet when standing can also minimize the risk of developing back pain while up.
Back pain can also result from some everyday activities or poor posture.
- long driving sessions without a break, even when not hunched
- over-stretching
- coughing or sneezing
- muscle tension
- bending awkwardly or for long periods
- pushing, pulling, lifting, or carrying something
Sleep disorders:
It is more likely to experience: sleep patterns and many more things that matter for body relief.
Sleep disturbance may reduce the body’s pain tolerance by making the central nervous system overly sensitive to pain signals. Back conditions may feel even more painful because of sleep.
There is a strong association between the lack of sleep and an increased risk of depression. Depression may be a contributor to the onset of back pain.
Studies to further clarify the relationship between sleep and pain are ongoing- there is enough research to suggest that the two are linked.
Getting an adequate amount of healthy, restorative sleep is beneficial for dealing with back pain. Yet back it makes it difficult to attain quality sleep.
There are a number of ways to improve the chances of progressing into restorative sleep.
Find a new mattress:
Back pain may be exacerbated by a mattress that is old and saggy, or simply too firm or too soft. Sleeping on a mattress that provides the right amount of support and comfort is important for attaining quality sleep.
Adjustable beds may also be considered; many people with neck pain find it more comfortable to sleep in a slightly reclining position.
Loosen back muscles before bedtime:
Stretching out painful areas may help release muscle tension. Local application of heat therapy, such as a heating pad, helps stretch and relieve soft tissues around the spine.
These two simple actions may lessen discomfort enough to enable sleep.
Shingles:
Shingles are an infection of the spinal nerves by the herpes virus causing painful blisters on the skin of the affected dermatome.
Patients may experience back problems in the lumbar spine preceding the outbreak of shingles. After the infection subsides, some patients may still experience chronic nerve pain.
Those who have had chickenpox are inclined to develop shingles, since the Herpes virus causing chickenpox may remain in the spinal nerve roots and reactivate causing infection along the sensory nerve.
Shingles can be effectively treated using topical lotions and antiviral medications.
Infection can affect the nervous system may lead to back discomfort. This also depends on which one is affected.
Sports Can Cause Back Pain:
Most athletic injuries to the back are sprains of the ligaments or strains of the muscles surrounding the spine. Serious conditions or complications can have similar symptoms to those of a routine sprain or strain.
The most common sports injuries occur after repetitive overuse of the spine
either through twisting, compression, or flexion. High-impact sports such as running, football, or volleyball can often cause back problems. Sports like golf, in which repetitive twisting is often involved, can also cause back pain.
Jobs That Can Cause Lower Back Pain:
- Airline crew (pilots, baggage handlers)
- Surgeons / Nurses & healthcare workers
- Bus and cab drivers
- Warehouse workers
- Construction workers
- Carpet installers and cleaners
- Farmers (agricultural, dairy)
- Firefighters and police
- Janitors
- Office personnel (e.g., telemarketers, file clerks, computer operators)
Back pain can have causes that aren’t due to underlying disease.
Lower back treatment reduces the likelihood of recurrent back pain flare-ups and helps prevent the development of chronic lower back problems.
If you’ve ever had lower back pain stop you from doing what you want, you’re not alone. It is one of the most common medical problems in the world.
Ask your friends and loved ones for support. If you’re feeling anxious or depressed, consider joining a support group or seeking counseling. Believe in your ability to take control of the pain…
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