Back pain – daily medical information

Back pain is one of the most common symptoms people see a doctor or miss at work for, and it is one of the most important global causes of disability.

Fortunately, there are some measures you can take to prevent pain or reduce the intensity of the pain, but if you do not avoid doing so, some simple home remedies and proper posture can help heal your back in a few weeks. His health over a long period of time. Surgical interventions to treat back pain are rarely used.

Back pain symptoms

• muscle pain;
• Sharp pain
• The pain extends down the back to the leg.
• Restrict the flexibility and movement of the back.

Need to see a doctor

Most back pain gradually improves within two weeks of home treatment and self-care. Back pain is rarely a serious medical problem. You should seek immediate treatment in these cases:

• You have recently had kidney or bowel problems.
• When pain accompanies fever.
• If the pain occurs after a fall, a blow to the back, or other accidents.

In these cases, you should see your doctor:

• When the pain is very severe and does not improve with rest.
• It extends to the leg, especially below the knee joint.
• It causes weakness or numbness in the leg.
• Accompanied by weight loss for no apparent reason.

You should also see a doctor if you have back pain for the first time after age 50, or if you have a medical history that includes:

Causes of back pain

Back pain can appear suddenly and last for up to six weeks (acute pain), and it can occur as a result of falling or carrying heavy loads. Back pain that lasts more than 3 months (chronic pain) is less common than acute pain.

The causes of back pain are:

Risk factors for back pain

There are factors that can increase your risk of developing back pain, including:

• As you age, back pain is more common as you age, beginning in your early 30s or 40s.
• A sedentary lifestyle Weak, unused back muscles can cause back pain.
• Some diseases, such as malignant tumors and arthritis, can cause back pain.
• Overload, as the back muscles are put under increased stress.
• Wearing weights incorrectly, and using the muscles of the back instead of the legs, can cause pain.
• Smoking prevents the body from getting adequate nourishment for the vertebrae.
• Mental health problems The people most at risk of back pain are those who suffer from depression and anxiety.

Prevent back pain

By improving physical fitness, learning and practicing correct postures, it is possible to avoid back pain or prevent its recurrence. To maintain a strong and healthy back, the following are recommended:

• Aerobic exercises, which are light aerobic exercises that do not strain your back, increase the endurance of your back and improve the performance of the back muscles. Walking and swimming are good options, but it’s best to talk to your doctor about what’s best for you.
• Build muscle strength and flexibility by training your joints, back and abdomen so that your back and abdominal muscles work together in harmony like a corset that is worn around the waist and protects the back. Your doctor will tell you which exercises are right for you.
• Maintain an ideal and healthy weight, as weight gain increases stress and tension on the back muscles, and losing weight can prevent back pain.

Use the correct postures

Correct standing position (intelligent)

Maintain a moderate pelvic position while standing. And in the event that you have to stand for a long time, it is recommended to put one foot on a footrest to ease the lower back and change positions at least every half hour.

Intelligent sitting position

Always choose a seat with good lumbar support, armrests, and a movable base. It is recommended to place a pillow under your lower back to maintain its natural curve. Keep your knees and pelvis level and try to change your position frequently, at least every half hour.

Back pain diagnosis

Medical tests are usually not done to diagnose the cause of back pain because a specialist examines your back and assesses your ability to sit, stand and move. If other causes are suspected, the doctor may order some medical imaging tests, such as:

• X-ray imaging.
• Magnetic Resonance.
• CT scan.
• Scanning of bones with radioactive isotopes.
• Electromyography.

Back pain treatment

Painkiller

Over-the-counter pain relievers can be used, including anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen and naproxen sodium. These medications can relieve severe pain.

It must be under medical supervision to avoid side effects with frequent use. If that doesn’t work, your doctor may prescribe nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) as directed by your doctor.

muscle relaxants

Your doctor may prescribe it to relieve mild or moderate back pain that doesn’t get better with over-the-counter pain relievers.

current colors

Topical pain relievers are available as creams or ointments for external use only on painful areas.

drugs

Narcotic drugs such as hydrocodone can be taken for a short time but only under medical supervision.

Antidepressants

Certain types of antidepressants, especially tricyclic antidepressants such as amitriptyline, may be used in low doses. The results showed that in addition to its ability to treat depression, it can relieve some chronic pain.

injection therapy

Cortisone injections, which are used as an anti-inflammatory or anesthetic therapy, can be injected into the space around the spine (epidural space).

Physiotherapy and exercise

Various treatments such as heat, ultrasound, some muscle stretching techniques or electrical stimulation are used to relieve back pain.

surgery

It is used in advanced cases of spinal problems that put pressure on the nerves after all other treatment solutions have failed.

Alternative therapies

There are a number of alternative treatments that can help relieve back pain, but you should discuss the benefits and harms with your doctor before starting any of these alternative treatments.

• Chiropractic, in which a therapist makes manual movements in the spine to relieve pain.
• Acupressure, which is done by inserting sterile needles into the skin of certain parts of the body, and this method has been shown to reduce pain in some people.
• Massage can be helpful for pain from muscle strain.
• Yoga, there are many types that aim to practice certain postures, breathing exercises, and relaxation. Yoga can stretch and strengthen your muscles and improve your posture, but you should avoid certain poses if your condition worsens.

Preparing for a doctor’s appointment

If your back pain continues for several days without improvement, you should make an appointment with your doctor. Here is some information that can help you prepare for this appointment:

• You should write down important personal information that may include mental, emotional, or psychological stressors in your life.
• Other illnesses you’re being treated for, drugs, vitamins or other supplements you’re currently taking, including doses.
• Injuries that have caused back pain include.
• If possible, take a family member or friend along to help you remember your doctor’s information.
• Questions you may need to ask your doctor.

Some questions to ask your doctor include:

• What is causing my back pain?
• Does my condition need tests to diagnose it?
• What is the best treatment for me?
• If your doctor prescribes medication, you may want to ask about side effects.
• I suffer from other diseases, what is the best treatment for me in this case?
• How long will the treatment take?
• What self-care methods can I try to avoid pain?
• How can I avoid recurring pain?

Some of the questions your doctor may ask you include:

• When did your back pain start?
• Is the pain continuous or increasing?
• Does pain prevent you from living your normal life? How much does it cost?
• Do you have any other symptoms or signs?
• Do you do hard physical work?
• Do you exercise regularly? And what kind?
• Do you suffer from depression or anxiety?
• Can you sleep well?
• What treatments or self-care methods have you tried? Did you benefit from anything?