Back pain is a common outcome of fatigue and several activities that we undertake on a daily basis. Standing or sitting for long periods of time, having to bend over frequently, twisting the back, carrying heavy weights, and wrong posture – all of these can cause back pain. And this is normal as long as the pain is not severe, recurring or long-term.
Back pain is of two types:
Back pain that follows a fall or an injury and does not go away after 2-3 days, or worsens with time, requires emergency medical attention. In addition to this, there are certain signs that indicate a larger or more serious condition. 5 such signs include:
This can be due to compression of nerves in the spinal area which are indicative of conditions like sciatica and spinal stenosis. If the weakness comes on suddenly, it could also indicate a stroke.
This could be due to compression of the nerves that serve the bladder or bowel. Or it could be due to a spinal infection such as meningitis or discitis. It could also be due to a condition called cauda equina syndrome in which nerves in the lower back are paralyzed. It could also indicate multiple sclerosis.
Also called saddle anesthesia, these symptoms are indicative of a spinal or nerve condition.
The causes include fracture of the hip bone, cancer, and will vary depending on the organ concerned. In case of pain in the stomach, it could indicate internal bleeding, abdominal aortic aneurysm or even cancer. Cancer that starts in the spine region and has metastasized to other organs such as the prostate, kidney, lung and breast also causes such radiating pain.
This could be due to an infection, torn ligament, torn muscle or dysfunction of an internal organ in the back or side. It could also be due to a back fracture sustained from a fall, motor vehicle accident or sporting injury.
It is possible one does not experience any of the above 5 signs. Nevertheless, there are other red flags. Back-pain accompanied by any of the following is indicative of something serious:
Diagnosing the underlying cause for back pain involves imaging tests such as X-ray, MRI, CT and bone scans. Blood tests and nerve studies such as Electromyography may also be called for, by the doctors.
Treatment options include medication, physiotherapy and surgical procedures.
Exercises to
NOTE: Take medications only when prescribed by your doctors, self-medication must be avoided under any circumstances.
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