Back discomfort affects a lot of people. According to the American Chiropractic Association, around 80% of people will experience back discomfort at some point in their lives.
The majority of the time, things go better in a few days or weeks. Back discomfort can occasionally be a sign of more serious problems, though, which necessitate medical attention. The following advice is for you if you experience recurring or unexplained back pain.
The most frequent causes of back discomfort are muscle strains and sprains, which can be brought on by incorrect lifting techniques, bad posture, or simply a lack of exercise. An ice pack and plenty of rest are frequently effective treatments for this kind of minor back discomfort.
Back pain, however, can also be brought on by a more severe wound, illness, or infection. If so, it might be time to visit the doctor.
SYMPTOMS
Back discomfort frequently results in one or more of the following symptoms, regardless of the etiology, which may be an accident or a degenerative condition :
- Persistent discomfort:- You should see a doctor if your severe back pain doesn’t go better with rest or doesn’t go away after a week of at-home care.
- A really painful back ache that goes beyond the back:- If you have discomfort that extends into your leg, particularly all the way to the bottom of your leg, see a doctor. This can be a sign of something more serious than just a pulled muscle, such as a back disc injury.
- Tingling, numbness, or weakness:- You should see a doctor immediately away if your back pain is accompanied by tingling or numbness in your legs, back, or anywhere else in your body. A doctor should also examine any unusual weakness.
- Pain from a collision:- Be careful to see a doctor for an evaluation if your back discomfort started as a result of a slip or other accident. Additionally, you must be sure to contact your doctor if your back becomes swollen or red.
- Pain that gets worse on occasion:- If your pain becomes noticeably greater at particular times or in particular positions, such as lying down, see a doctor. Another red flag of anything more serious is increased pain at night.
- Issues with urination or your bowels:- Your back pain may be accompanied by symptoms such as difficulty urinating or passing stool. Make sure to discuss these symptoms with your doctor.
- Unexplained weight loss:- You should consult a doctor if you’re losing weight without trying because it can be caused by your back pain.
- Fever:- Call your physician if you have a fever and back pain at the same time.
WHAT ARE THE CAUSES?
Back discomfort frequently occurs following a specific event, like twisting or lifting. Degenerative conditions, though, can also play a role. Strains to ligaments or muscles ruptured or bulging discs, osteoporosis, arthritis, and skeletal abnormalities are among the common causes of back discomfort. Back discomfort may occasionally be a sign of more significant underlying health problems.
WHEN TO VISIT A PHYSICIAN?
Back pain typically gets better on its own with self-care; but, if it lasts for more than two weeks, you should see a doctor. Additionally, if you experience any of the symptoms listed below, which may be signs of a medical issue, you ought to get evaluated :
- Issues with the bladder or bowels
- Back pain accompanied by fever
- Pain resulting from a fall or blow to the back
- Extreme pain that does not get better with rest
- Pain that extends down one or both legs
- Back pain in conjunction with unexplained weight loss
Additionally, you must see a medical professional if you experience back discomfort for the first time after the age of 50, or if you have a history of steroid use, osteoporosis, cancer, or alcohol or drug misuse.
WHAT COULD BE DONE TO PREVENT THIS?
Keeping your weight under control and engaging in regular exercise will lower your risk of developing back discomfort. While standing and sitting, you should pay particular attention to your posture. The likelihood of back pain can be decreased by stretching and other flexibility exercises. Whenever you are carrying something heavy, you should also avoid twisting and simply bend at the knees.
To get relief from constant back pain call (469) 545-9983 and schedule an appointment with the physician at Specialty Care Clinics right away.