The most common cause of back pain is mechanical damage. Many people complain of feeling discomfort in their backs following an activity that might have led to them pulling a herniated disc or muscle, which changes the functioning of the specific part of the back and thus causing pain. However, back pain should resolve on its own within a few days. Patients with chronic back pain in Houston almost always end up seeing their doctor because the pain is usually unbearable to the extent that it affects their ability to complete tasks on time.
What are the causes of back pain?
Poor posture
The main reason why most people are at risk of developing back pain is maintaining poor posture. People who constantly slouch their shoulders when using their electronic devices, their phones, or laptops should complain of back and even shoulder pain at one point in their lives. However, the pain can occur immediately after sitting for long periods and resolve independently or after stretching.
Mechanical damage
Some examples of causes in this category include back injuries. Mechanical damage to the spine is also typical in people who do manual labor jobs requiring heavy lifting. There is a technique to lifting that removes the pressure from the back, but unless executed, it is the leading cause of back pain. Many pregnant women also experience back pain because of carrying the baby and during labor.
Age
The older you get, the higher the risk you are of developing back pain. Old bones become weak due to conditions like osteoporosis. Thus any strenuous activity can cause discomfort in your back.
Medical conditions
Some patients have back pain whose root cause is specific medical conditions like sciatica, degenerative disk disease, pinched nerve, and spinal stenosis.
What is the treatment of back pain?
Treatment usually depends on what is causing the discomfort. Some of the ways to find relief include:
1. Home remedies
You can eliminate your back pain by having a deeply relaxing oil massage that can help remove tension from your muscles. You can also apply heat or ice to the painful area to get relief.
2. Medical intervention
If you have chronic back pain, which is discomfort that persists for more than three months, then it is time to see the doctor. However, it would help if you had tried home remedy options and confirmed that they are not effective before booking a session with your doctor.
A physical examination on your back will be performed by your doctor, along with image testing, like X-rays, to observe your condition better. Therefore, he will understand the root cause of your pain and personalize your treatment to suit your situation. Treatments of back pain include:
- Medications to deal with any inflammation
- Injections
- Physical therapy
- Mechanical neuromodulation therapy where a device, for example, a spinal cord stimulator, is implanted in your back to help mask the pain and calm your nerves.
Back pain is debilitating and can hinder you from enjoying your life if not resolved. Contact Yancey Pain & Spine to confirm the cause of your back pain and plan a treatment appointment to help relieve your symptoms.