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Back Pain Causes, Diagnosis and Treatment

[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Back discomfort is a frequent cause of missed work days and visits to the doctor. It may be agonising and crippling. Here we have a complete guide for back pain causes, diagnosis and treatment.

Injury, physical exercise, and various medical problems can also cause it. People of any age might have back discomfort for a variety of reasons. Because of things like prior occupations and degenerative disc disease, lower back pain is more likely to occur as people age.

The bony lumbar spine, the discs between the vertebrae, the ligaments surrounding the spine and discs, the spinal cord and nerves, the lower back muscles, the abdominal and pelvic internal organs, and the skin around the lumbar region may all be contributing factors to lower back pain.[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]

Causes of Back Pain

Back discomfort may be caused by issues with the spine, such as osteoporosis.[/vc_column_text][vc_single_image image=”1089″ img_size=”full” add_caption=”yes” style=”vc_box_outline”][vc_column_text]Muscles, ligaments, tendons, discs, and bones make form the intricate anatomy of the human back, which supports the body and makes movement possible.

The discs that act as cushions for the spine’s segments resemble cartilage.

Back pain may result from issues with any of these parts. The exact reason of certain back pain situations is yet unknown.

Damage may occur as a consequence of strain, illnesses, and bad posture, among other things.

Strain

The most frequent causes of back discomfort are strain, stress, or injury. Back discomfort often results from the following causes:

• Stretched ligaments or muscles
• A muscular cramp
• Strained muscles, damaged discs, wounds, fractures, or falls

Performing the following activities may cause strains or spasms:

• Lifting something incorrectly
• Lifting something too heavy
• In a quick and clumsy motion

Back pain may be brought on by a variety of structural issues.

Structural problems

Ruptured disks:

Every vertebra in the spine is cushioned by discs, which may rupture. Back pain will arise from increased pressure on a nerve if the disc ruptures.
Bulging disks:

Disks that are bulging: Much like discs that have burst, a disc that is bulging might put extra pressure on a nerve.
Sciatica: 

A bulging or herniated disc pushing on a nerve causes an acute, shooting pain to go down the buttock and down the back of the leg.
Arthritis:

Osteoarthritis, a kind of arthritis, may lead to issues with the hips, lower back, and other joints. The area around the spinal cord may sometimes get smaller. Spinal stenosis is what this is.
Abnormal curvature of the spine: 

Back discomfort may occur from an atypical spine curve. Scoliosis, in which the spine bends to one side, serves as an illustration.
Osteoporosis:

Compression fractures are more common due to the brittleness and porousness of bones, especially the spine’s vertebrae.

Kidney problems:
Back discomfort may result from renal issues such as kidney infections or stones.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text]

Movement and posture

When using computers, adopting a highly slumped posture might eventually worsen back and shoulder issues.

Examples comprise:

• twisting
• sneeze or coughing
• skeletal tension
• over-stretching
• uncomfortably or continuously bending
• dragging, lifting, carrying, or pushing anything
• prolonged standing or sitting

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• straining the neck forward, such as while using a computer or when driving
• lengthy periods of time spent driving without stopping, even while not crouched
• sleeping on a mattress that does not maintain the body’s alignment and support the spine

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Other causes

Some medical conditions can lead to back pain.

• Cauda equina syndrome: The cauda equine is a bundle of spinal nerve roots that arise from the lower end of the spinal cord. Symptoms include a dull pain in the lower back and upper buttocks, as well as numbness in the buttocks, genitalia, and thighs. There are sometimes bowel and bladder function disturbances.
• Cancer of the spine: A tumor on the spine may press against a nerve, resulting in back pain.
• Infection of the spine: A fever and a tender, warm area on the back could be due to an infection of the spine.
• Other infections: Pelvic inflammatory disease, bladder, or kidney infections may also lead to back pain.
• Sleep disorders: Individuals with sleep disorders are more likely to experience back pain, compared with others.
• Shingles: An infection that can affect the nerves may lead to back pain. This depends on which nerves are affected.

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Risk Factors

Low back discomfort is more likely to occur as a result of the following factors:

• professional pursuits
• pregnancy
• a sedentary way of life
• insufficient level of fitness
• greater age
• overweight and obesity
• smoking
• physically demanding activity or task, particularly when performed badly
• genetic influences
• medical disorders including cancer and rheumatoid arthritis

Additionally, women seem to experience lower back discomfort more often than males, probably as a result of hormonal variables. The causes of back pain have also been related to stress, anxiety, and mood disorders.

Symptoms

The main symptom of back pain is an ache or pain anywhere in the back, and sometimes all the way down to the buttocks and legs.

Some back issues can cause pain in other parts of the body, depending on the nerves affected.

The back pain often goes away without treatment, but if it occurs with any of the following people should see their doctor:

• weight loss
• fever
• inflammation or swelling on the back
• persistent back pain, where lying down or resting does not help
• pain down the legs
• pain that reaches below the knees
• a recent injury, blow or trauma to the back
• urinary incontinence
• difficulty urinating
• fecal incontinence, or loss of control over bowel movements
• numbness around the genitals
• numbness around the anus
• numbness around the buttocks

When to see a doctor

Make an appointment with a doctor. If you suffer back discomfort or feel any tingling or numbness, turn to a reliable source:

• Following a fall or injury
• That does not go better with rest
• Accompanied by weakness
• Numbness in the legs
• A fever
• Unexplained weight loss

Diagnosis

Back pain may often be identified by a doctor after discussing symptoms and doing a physical exam.

You may need to have an imaging scan and additional testing if:

Although back pain that seems to be caused by an accident may really have an underlying reason that has to be treated.
The condition of the soft tissues of the back may be determined by an X-ray, MRI, or CT scan.

X-rays:

X-ray may indicate damage to the muscles, spinal cord, nerves, or discs, as well as the alignment of the bones and indications of arthritis or fractured bones.

MRI or CT scans:

Herniated discs or issues with tissue, tendons, nerves, ligaments, blood vessels, muscles, and bones may be discovered by MRI or CT scans.

Bone scans:

Bone scans may find osteoporosis-related compression fractures or bone cancers. Injection of a radioactive agent or tracer into a vein. Using a dedicated camera, the tracer accumulates in the bones and aids the doctor in identifying bone issues.

Electromyography or EMG:

The electrical impulses generated by nerves in reaction to muscular contractions are measured by electromyography, or EMG. This may demonstrate the presence of nerve compression, which can be brought on by a herniated disc or spinal stenosis.
When an infection is detected.

The doctor could also request a blood test.

Other Types of Diagnosis

 A chiropractor: X-rays may reveal how the bones are aligned and spot indications of arthritis or shattered bones. A chiropractor will make their diagnosis by palpating the patient and doing a visual examination. Chiropractic is renowned for its straightforward methodology and significant emphasis on spinal joint adjustments. A chiropractor could also want to view the outcomes of any blood and urine tests as well as imaging scans.
Additionally using touch and visual examination, an osteopath makes diagnosis.

Osteopathy: Osteopathy includes pressure or indirect approaches, gradual and rhythmic stretching known as mobilization, and manipulation of joints and muscles.

Physical Therapist: A physical therapist concentrates on identifying difficulties with the body’s joints and soft tissues.

Chronic or Acute Pain

There are two categories of back pain.

Chronic Pain:

Pain that is acute begins quickly and may linger for up to 6 weeks.

Acute:

Pain that lasts more than three months is referred to as chronic or long-term pain because it grows more slowly.

It may be difficult for a doctor to tell whether a patient has acute or chronic back pain if they have both intermittent episodes of more extreme pain and fairly consistent moderate back pain.[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]

Back Pain Treatment

Rest and natural cures for back pain typically work, but sometimes medical care is required.

Home Treatment

Un comfortability may be reduced using over the counter (OTC) painkillers, typically nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAID), such ibuprofen. It may also help to apply an ice pack or a hot compress to the hurting region.

While taking a break from physically demanding activities might be beneficial, moving about can soothe stiffness, lessen discomfort, and keep muscles from deteriorating.

Medical Treatment

A doctor may advise the following medicine, physical therapy, or both if self-care measures do not alleviate back discomfort.

Medication:

A prescription NSAID may be necessary for back pain that does not improve with over-the-counter medicines. Narcotics like codeine or hydrocodone may be administered for brief periods of time. The doctor must closely watch these. Muscle relaxants may be utilised in specific circumstances.

Antidepressants, such amitriptyline trusted Source, may be given, however there is contradictory information on how helpful they are.

Physical Therapy:

Back muscles and soft tissues may benefit from the use of heat, cold, ultrasound, electrical stimulation, and various muscle-release procedures to assist reduce discomfort.

The physical therapist could start include some back and abdominal muscle flexibility and strength exercises as the discomfort lessens. Additionally useful may be posture-improving methods.

Even after the pain has subsided, the patient will be urged to continue using the procedures to avoid reoccurring back discomfort.

Cortisone Injection:

These may be injected into the epidural space, which surrounds the spinal cord, if previous methods are unsuccessful. An anti-inflammatory medication is cortisone. It aids in reducing swelling close to the nerve roots. Additionally, injections may be utilised to numb the pain-causing regions.

Botox:

According to some early research, Botox (botulism toxin) is supposed to lessen pain by numbing strained muscles that are in a spasm. These injections last for roughly three to four months.

Traction:

In order to extend the back, pulleys and weights are employed. A herniated disc could realign as a consequence of this. Additionally, it may reduce discomfort, but only while traction is being used.

Cognitive Behavior Therapy:

By promoting new ways of thinking, CBT may aid in the management of persistent back pain. It could include methods for unwinding and strategies to keep a positive outlook. According to studies, CBT patients tend to exercise more and become more active, which lowers their likelihood of experiencing a return of their back pain.

Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS):

For individuals with persistent back pain, transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) is a common treatment. Through electrodes positioned on the skin, the TENS machine sends brief electric pulses into the body.

According to experts, TENS may prevent pain signals from returning to the brain by encouraging the body to create endorphins. TENS research has produced a range of findings. Certain studies showed no advantages, while others suggested it could be beneficial for some individuals.

Under the supervision of a physician or other medical practitioner, a TENS machine should be utilized.

The following individuals shouldn’t use it:

• Has a pacemakers
• Is expecting
• Has a history of epilepsy
• A history of cardiovascular disease

Although TENS is regarded as “safe, noninvasive, affordable, and patient friendly,” additional proof is required to establish its efficacy in boosting activity levels.

Surgery:

Back surgery is a fairly uncommon occurrence. Surgery may be an option for a patient with a herniated disc, particularly if there is ongoing discomfort and nerve compression that may result in muscular weakness.

Surgical techniques include, for instance:

Fusion:

Fusion is the joining of two vertebrae by inserting a bone graft in the space between them. With the use of metal plates, screws, or cages, the vertebrae are splinted together. The likelihood of arthritis later forming in the adjacent vertebrae is much higher.

Artificial disc:

The cushion between two vertebrae is replaced with an artificial disc, which is implanted.

Discectomy:

If a disc is irritating or pushing on a nerve, some of the disc may be removed.
A little portion of a vertebra may be removed if it is putting pressure on the spinal cord or nearby nerves.

Partially removing a vertebra:

Researchers at Duke University in North Carolina have created novel biomaterials that can send a booster dose of reparative cells to the nucleus pulposus, therefore completely eradicating the agony brought on by degenerative disc disease.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]