Back pain is one of the most common and widespread health issues, affecting people of all ages, genders, and health conditions. It can be temporary or chronic, mild or severe, localized or generalized. Back pain can significantly impact a person’s quality of life, limiting their ability to work, move, and stay active.
But what are the causes of back pain? And how can it be treated? In this article, we will try to answer these questions in a simple and clear way.
Causes of Back Pain
There are many potential causes of back pain, which can vary depending on the location, nature, and duration of the pain. In some cases, there may be no clear cause, and this is referred to as nonspecific back pain.
Among the main causes of back pain are:
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Muscle or ligament strain:
This can occur from lifting heavy objects incorrectly, sudden or unusual movements, or injury or trauma to the back. Strain is also more likely with a lack of exercise, excess weight, or reduced muscle flexibility. This type of pain is typically acute and localized in one part of the back and may gradually subside with rest and home treatment. -
Herniated or ruptured discs:
Intervertebral discs act as cushions between the vertebrae and contain a jelly-like substance inside. Over time, discs may bulge or rupture due to wear, inflammation, or injury, leading to pressure on the nerves leaving the spinal cord. This can cause intense pain at the site of the bulging disc and may extend down one or both legs, known as sciatica. The pain can worsen with movement, coughing, or sneezing. In some cases, a herniated disc may cause no pain and only be discovered through imaging tests. -
Arthritis:
This is inflammation of the joints, which may affect the spine’s joints and lead to the degeneration of cartilage and narrowing of the space between vertebrae. This narrowing can cause pressure on the nerves, resulting in pain, numbness, and weakness in the back or limbs. The most common form of arthritis in the back is osteoarthritis, which is more likely with aging. -
Osteoporosis:
This is a condition where bone density decreases, making bones fragile and prone to fractures. Fractures in the vertebrae of the lower back due to osteoporosis can cause sharp pain, curvature of the spine, and a decrease in height. -
Structural issues:
Some deformities or changes in the shape or structure of the spine can lead to back pain. These include excessive curvature of the lower back (known as lordosis), sideways curvature in the upper back (scoliosis), or slippage of one vertebra over another in the lower back (spondylolisthesis), which can place pressure on nerves.
Treatment of Back Pain
Treatment for back pain varies depending on its cause, severity, and impact on the individual’s life. Treatment options include:
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Home Treatment:
For muscle strain or minor injury, home treatment may be sufficient. This includes using over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, applying hot or cold compresses to the painful area, avoiding movements that worsen the pain, and performing light exercises to improve flexibility and strengthen back muscles, such as stretching and bending. Maintaining a good posture while sitting, standing, or sleeping, and using supportive cushions or mattresses can also help. -
Medical Treatment:
In cases where home treatment is ineffective or the symptoms are severe or concerning, medical treatment may be required. This can include the use of anti-inflammatory medications, muscle relaxants, or steroid injections to relieve pain, inflammation, and swelling in the back. Additionally, some techniques target the nerve roots responsible for transmitting pain signals, such as electrical nerve stimulation or dextrose injections into the joints. Consulting a specialist in rehabilitation, physical therapy, nutrition, or psychology may also be recommended to improve overall health and mobility. -
Surgical Treatment:
Surgery may be necessary in rare cases where home and medical treatments do not alleviate the pain or if the condition poses a risk to the patient’s life or bodily function. Conditions requiring surgery include severe disc herniation that presses on the spinal cord or nerve roots, leading to paralysis or loss of sensation, fractures of the vertebrae that threaten spinal stability, or rapidly growing or spreading tumors in the spine. Surgical options include removing part or all of the damaged disc to relieve nerve pressure, spinal fusion surgery to stabilize the spine, or tumor removal to reduce pain and pressure.
Back pain can be complex, and treatment should be tailored to the individual’s specific situation, aiming to relieve pain, improve mobility, and enhance overall quality of life.
