5 Common Causes of Back Pain
Back pain can be caused by a variety of factors. While acute pain usually comes on suddenly and goes away on its own, chronic pain may last for two or more weeks, causing you to avoid physical activity and resort to compensatory behaviors that make the pain worse. It is estimated that eight out of ten people will experience back pain at some point in their lives. Of these, one in ten people will experience chronic back pain.
Arthritis
Back pain can be caused by many different things. It can be a result of an injury, a car accident, or a fall. It can also be the result of a disease like arthritis. Arthritis affects your joints and is one of the most common causes of back pain.
The most common type of arthritis is osteoarthritis. Osteoarthritis is a degenerative form of arthritis that usually develops as a person ages. It can affect any joint in the body, but most commonly occurs in the lower back, where it bears the greatest amount of weight.
Scoliosis
Scoliosis is one of the most common causes of back pain among adults. The pain it causes may be related to the curve in the spine or to nerve compression. Muscle pain may also be a sign of scoliosis. Adults with scoliosis should see a doctor for diagnosis and treatment. If left untreated, scoliosis can increase the curvature of the spine.
If symptoms of scoliosis persist or worsen, back surgery may be necessary. This treatment will stabilize the spine and relieve pain during acute episodes of pain. However, if the brace is worn for long periods, it can weaken the back muscles and contribute to the accelerated degeneration of the spine. Physical therapy is the first-line treatment for adults with scoliosis. Physical therapy teaches patients proper back mechanics and can prevent further deterioration of the spine.
Pregnancy
Back pain in pregnancy can be a serious problem that may require medical attention. It is important to take steps to reduce pain and stay active. For example, wearing supportive shoes is important. You may also want to sleep on your side and use pillows under your knees. Massage and cold compresses can also help relieve pain. You should also discuss your back pain with a healthcare provider and ask about any support garments you might need.
Back pain in pregnancy is caused by changes in the body’s hormone levels. The release of the relaxin hormone makes ligaments and joints more flexible, which can cause back pain. It can occur during normal movements such as standing or walking, or during prolonged sitting. Some women even feel pain when bending or rolling over.
Misalignment In The Bones And Joints
Misalignment in the bones and joints of the spine can cause many health problems, from stiffness and strained muscles in the back and shoulders to nerve damage and digestive problems. This problem is common and can be solved by restoring proper alignment. Chiropractors are trained to examine the spine to find the misalignment and apply gentle pressure to return the spine to its natural position.
When back pain begins to interfere with a person’s life, it is important to consult a doctor. The family physician will be able to determine the source of the pain through a complete medical history and physical exam. He or she will also check for muscle weakness and numbness. If needed, the doctor will order an x-ray to ensure that the bones and joints in the spine are in alignment. This can reveal fractures and bone spurs, as well as slippage of vertebrae.
Herniated Disc
If you suffer from back pain, it is possible that you are suffering from a herniated disc. This condition occurs when a disc, which is located in the spinal column, herniates. The disc becomes damaged due to wear and tear and may push against nerves, causing pain. This condition can sometimes be so serious that it requires emergency surgery. Fortunately, most herniated discs are treatable.
In most cases, a herniated disc is diagnosed through a physical exam. The doctor will examine your neck, shoulders, arms, and hands to determine the exact cause of your pain. He or she will also perform an examination of your lower back, hips, and legs. In some cases, you may feel numbness, weakness, or tingling in the area of the herniated disc.