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Back Pain: The Reason Why It Happens and The Help Available

Back pain is a common problem. It can arise from many different factors, including falls and poor sitting posture. Although it is often downplayed, backache can aggravate to the point where it disrupts a person’s productivity and quality of life. But thanks to professional back doctors like Doctor Roya in NY, back pain can be treated effectively and efficiently. This article discusses backache and explains the treatment options available.

Back pain: Definition

Back pain can affect the upper, middle, or lower back (lumbar). In many cases, activities such as bending, twisting, and lifting can make the pain worse. Most people with back pain experience tingling, weakness, and a dull ache in the spine. Others also experience radiating pain down their legs and knees (sciatica).

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Other symptoms

In some people, backache is accompanied by other serious symptoms, such as:

  • Weight loss;
  • Fever;
  • Inflammation of the back;
  • Difficulty urinating;
  • Difficulty passing stool;
  • Numbness in the legs and around the genitals, anus, and/or buttocks.

When to see a doctor

It is critical to consult a specialist if your symptoms are severe or persistent. A specialist can rule out more serious conditions and work with you to prevent complications.

Doctor Roya is an award-winning NY family medicine physician who may be the ideal specialist for you. Book a consultation with Doctor Roya or visit one of her NY clinics located in Manhattan, Long Island, and Queens.

What is the cause of back pain?

The backbone (vertebrae) comprises muscles, tendons, discs, ligaments, and other tissues. All these components work together to protect the spine and provide structural support for the body. However, if for any reason, any of these components get fractured or sore, backache may set in.

Falls and poor sitting posture are two common causes of back pain. But they are not the only ones. The following situations can also contribute to back pain:

  • Strain: Lifting heavy objects with the wrong posture may strain the back muscles and ligaments. If strain continues, muscle spasms may occur;
  • Herniated discs: Discs work as cushions for the series of bones that form the spinal cord. However, discs may slip, bulge or rupture, causing back pain;
  • Arthritis: These degenerative disorders cause inflammation and pain in the joints. They can also cause wear and tear to the lower backbone;
  • Osteoporosis: This serious bone disease makes the bones fragile and brittle. It can also cause bone fracture and backache;
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Risk factors

Research suggests that low back pain more commonly occurs in people who are aged between 30 and 50 years, meaning age is a risk factor.

Another issue is a lack of physical exercise. Muscles that are not exercised sufficiently may become weak and painful over time.

Similarly, a high BMI places a lot of pressure on the backbone. It can stress the back and induce pain.

Diagnosis

To diagnose back pain, your healthcare provider will ask about your symptoms. Your provider will also perform a physical examination. The aim of the physical exam is to analyze your range of motion for signs of an abnormality.

If there is still uncertainty, your provider may perform an imaging test, such as:

  • An X-ray: This can detect fractures, broken bones, and herniated discs;
  • An MRI scan: This can identify spinal injuries and backbone abnormalities;
  • A CT scan: This can analyze the muscles, ligaments, nerve roots, and other areas for structural anomalies.

Back pain treatment and remedies

Sometimes, sufficient rest, a bit of exercise, and some hot compresses can make symptoms go away. Other times, medical treatment is the only way to cure back pain. There are many treatment options for backache. They include

  • Over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers, such as acetaminophen, to ease pain;

  • Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID), such as ibuprofen to reduce pain and discomfort

  • Complementary therapies, such as chiropractic spinal manipulation, acupuncture, and massage, provide progressive muscle relaxation. They may also relieve chronic backacke;

  • Botox (botulism toxin) injections to numb the muscles temporarily and provide pain relief. When administered by a pain management specialist, Botox can be very effective;

  • Surgery to correct severe bone injury. This is usually the last resort.

Prevention

Back pain is largely preventable. It begins with some lifestyle decisions, including:

  • Exercising: Walking, jogging, and other exercises can keep your muscles active and strong. They can also boost your stability and balance;

  • Maintaining a good posture: Sitting straight, standing upright, and lifting objects the right way can preserve the health of your spine. Also, when you go to bed, try to sleep on your side — and on a medium-to-firm mattress;

  • Avoiding smoking: Not smoking means that your muscles and tissues will get a good supply of blood to function properly;

  • Maintaining a moderate weight: A moderate weight can ease pressure on your spine and keep it healthy and functional. If you are worried about your weight, 

Getting relief from backache

If you have further questions about backache, Doctor Roya is ready to answer them. A world-acclaimed NY medical professional, she is committed to transforming the lives of others through effective, personalized healthcare. Get your life and career back on track with her help.

Condition before and after

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Sometimes, back pain resolves itself and does not require treatment. Other times, it may present severe and persistent symptoms, including high fever, sciatica, and stomach pain. In such cases, prompt and effective treatment is crucial.

During Botox back pain treatment, you may experience some pain. The numbness generated by the freezing applicator used during the operation may be the source of the pain. Learn more about pain management here.

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