Back Pain
Back Pain web based movie
Back pain is often a common symptom of many disease conditions and the back pain may range from simple or dull pain to sudden and sharp pain. If the pain persists for few days, it is acute pain whereas if it continues for more than 3 months, it is considered as chronic pain. In most cases, back pain may resolve without any treatment ;however, if it persists for more than 3 days, medical intervention is necessary.
Back pain may be a common symptom in various conditions such as appendicitis, aneurysms, kidney diseases, kidney and bladder infections, ovarian disorders, pregnancy, nerve root syndromes such as sciatica, herniated discs, spinal stenosis, musculoskeletal problems, osteomyelitis, spondylitis, tumors, spine injuries, fractures, and many more.
Back pain can be alleviated with RICE (Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation) pain relievers, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), corticosteroids, and physical therapy. However certain conditions causing severe pain may require surgical treatment. Treating underlying conditions offer the relief from back pain.
One of the common causes for back pain is low back strain. Low back strain or lumbar strain occurs when the muscle or the tendon in the lower back gets stretched or torn. It is caused by lifting heavy objects or overload, sitting or standing for a longer time, direct blow over the area, or sports such as basketball, baseball, or golf that involve sudden twisting of lower back.
The risk factors such as excess low back curvature, weak abdominal muscles, and forwardly tilted pelvis can increase the risk of this injury.
The common symptoms include lower back pain that radiates down to the buttocks; inflammation of the soft tissues that surround the muscles; stiffness in the lower back; restricted movements; inability to maintain correct posture; muscle spasms; and pain which continues for a longer period.
Your doctor will perform a physical examination and take a brief medical history to diagnose your child’s condition. Other tests such as X-ray and MRI scan may be required to confirm the injury and provide necessary treatment.
The conservative treatment methods include:
- Rest: Your should take complete rest for 1-3 days, as more damage could result from putting pressure on the back. Prolonged bed rest should also be avoided as it leads to loss of muscle strength and makes the muscles stiff which will aggravate pain and discomfort. Hence bed rest should not be continued for more than 48 hours.
- Ice packs can be applied to the injury which will help to diminish swelling and pain. Ice should be applied over a towel to the affected area for 15-20 minutes four times a day for several days. Never place ice directly over the skin.
- Braces or belt might be used to support the back while the healing happens.
- Medications that may be prescribed include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs to reduce pain and inflammation. Other medicines such as muscle relaxants control muscle spasms. These medicines often cause sedation; therefore, consult your doctor to discuss about the type of muscle relaxants for your child.
- Your doctor may also suggest a rehabilitation program for your child. It consists of stretching and strengthening exercises, pelvic traction, gentle massages, and ice or heat therapy to improve your child’s condition. It helps to control the pain, strengthen the abdominal muscles, and also speeds up the recovery which allows you to return to the weight-bearing activities.
Some of the preventive measures which can help prevent back strain include:
- Doing warm up exercises before the start of any physical activity or sports and taking short breaks in between the activity.
- Ensure that you uses correct lifting techniques such as squatting to lift a heavy object.
- Ensure that you maintain proper posture while sitting and standing.
- If you are overweight or obese, it can strain the back muscles. Hence it is advised that you lose some weight and maintain a healthy diet.
- Exercise everyday as it improves spine stability and also prevents extra stress on your child’s back.