Back Pain – Causes, Symptoms and Treatment

Back pain is one of the most common complaints in the United States since the majority of people experience it at some point in their lives. In fact, back pain is one of the most frequent reasons for people visiting their doctor and for missing work. No matter what is causing the pain, there are fortunately some things you can do to reduce the pain, and prevent it from re-occurring as well.

Causes

Doctors often have difficulty determining the exact cause of back pain due to how it continuously develops over time without a specific incident. Here are some conditions that are typically linked to back pain.

• Osteoarthritis often affects the lower back. This disease narrows the space where the spinal cord is located, which makes the patient experience a “pinch” like sensation to the back. This pinch overall results in back pain.
• Strained muscles and ligaments caused by heavy lifting or sudden movements can result in pain. Those who are overweight, use repetitive motions at work or play are more susceptible to strains, which can lead to muscle spasms and pain.
• Spinal abnormalities that cause the spine to curve may result in back pain.
• Ruptured and bulging disks can press on nerves in the spine, which leads to pain.

Symptoms

Many people who are suffering from back pain experience a shooting or stabbing like sensation somewhere in the area of the back. There is often muscle aches associated with it as well as pain that radiates down into one of the legs. Some people have limited range of motion and loss of flexibility in the back, and some are unable to stand upright with a straight back.

Many people find that back pain will improve with rest and other self-care treatments. However, if the pain does not improve or it worsens after 72 hours, then it is time to see a doctor.

Treatment

Even though most incidents of back pain improve within a matter of just a few weeks, there are some over-the-counter treatments that are known to ease the pain. Bed rest for a short period of time is recommended. However, patients are told to continue with their daily activities as much as the pain will allow, such as walking.

When pain relievers like Tylenol or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs do not effectively help improve the pain, doctors may then prescribe codeine or hydrocodone, which are stronger than over-the-counter medications. However, they must be taken as directed under a doctor’s supervision to prevent addiction.

Physical therapy as well as exercise is the cornerstones of treatment for those with back pain. Injections of cortisone are sometimes given at the site where the pain originates when less invasive treatments are not effective. When all other treatment options fail, surgery may be the last resort for pain that interferes too much with normal life. For more information call 888-719-8448 or walk in to any of our locations to get the relief you need.

About Healthpointe:

Healthpointe is a leading multidisciplinary healthcare organization offering a full range of medical services in practice locations throughout Southern California (Los Angeles county, Orange county, San Bernardino county and Riverside county). Healthpointe has locations situated in over 10 cities in Southern California including Long Beach, which is conveniently located near Signal Hill, Carson, Seal Beach, Lakewood, Bellflower, Compton, Hawaiian Gardens, and Los Alamitos. As a highly regarded musculoskeletal group, we have a personal investment in the highest level of service, and we are proud of our record of excellence over the last four decades with private patients, injured workers, urgent care, personal injuries, and professional and non-professional athletes. Leading our organization is a dynamic team of healthcare professionals who continually strive to be at the forefront of medical innovation and healthcare service delivery. For more information, a complete list of services, and Healthpointe locations, visit healthpointe.net