Back pain is a broad category of problems caused from faulty postures over time or from injuries created by lifting or carrying. Sometimes ice or heat is recommended to reduce inflammation and or muscle spasm. Doing the incorrect procedure here can make it worse without proper diagnosis. For example, heating up an area that is inflamed can make the problem worse.
Low back problems can be present in heavy lifting work situations or sedentary ones. Your spine is always reacting to gravity and if you don’t have good muscle strength or spine strength then back pain will be present. Treatments are designed after testing to determine which area needs attention by the client regarding exercises to help the condition. The chiropractor will treat the areas involved and hasten the recovery, however, it’s a team approach with you and the chiropractor working together.
Back pain is one of the most common reasons people seek medical help or miss work. Back pain is a leading cause of disability worldwide.
Fortunately, measures can help prevent or relieve most back pain episodes, especially for people younger than age 60. If prevention fails, simple home treatment and using the body correctly often will heal the back within a few weeks. Surgery is rarely needed to treat back pain.
Symptoms
Back pain can range from a muscle aching to a shooting, burning or stabbing sensation. Also, the pain can radiate down a leg. Bending, twisting, lifting, standing or walking can make it worse.
When to see a doctor
Most back pain gradually improves with home treatment and self-care, usually within a few weeks. Contact your health care provider for back pain that:
- Lasts longer than a few weeks
- Is severe and doesn’t improve with rest
- Spreads down one or both legs, especially if the pain goes below the knee
- Causes weakness, numbness or tingling in one or both legs
- Is paired with unexplained weight loss
In rare cases, back pain can signal a serious medical problem. Seek immediate care for back pain that:
- Causes new bowel or bladder problems
- Is accompanied by a fever
- Follows a fall, blow to the back or other injury
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