Back pain is one of the most common complaints among modern people and can occur at any age. The causes of this condition may range from harmless to serious. In many cases, back pain resolves on its own, but sometimes qualified medical assistance is necessary. It’s important to recognize the nature of the pain in time and know what exactly needs to be done. In this article, Baltimore Chronicle will explore the causes, diagnostic methods, treatment, and prevention of back pain.
Causes of Back Pain
Back pain may result from temporary strain or serious spinal or internal organ conditions.
Main Causes of Pain:
- Muscle overstrain or stretching
- Osteochondrosis, herniated discs
- Spinal curvature (scoliosis, kyphosis)
- Inflammatory diseases (spondylitis)
- Kidney or gastrointestinal problems
- Injuries (bruises, fractures, vertebral displacements)
- Poor posture or prolonged sitting
Risk Factors:
- Sedentary lifestyle
- Excess weight
- Pregnancy
- Stress and emotional tension
- Uncomfortable footwear or mattress
Understanding the cause of pain is the first step toward proper treatment.
What to Do for Back Pain
Actions depend on the intensity, location, and duration of the pain. In some cases, you can manage it yourself; in others, you should see a doctor immediately.
Action Algorithm:
- Reduce physical activity
- Assume a comfortable position (e.g., lie on your back with a pillow under your knees)
- Apply a cold compress (first 48 hours) or warm compress (after that)
- Use pain relievers (after consulting a doctor)
- Monitor your symptoms
When to See a Doctor:
- Pain lasts more than 3 days
- Urinary problems or limb numbness
- Pain appeared after an injury
- Fever, weakness, weight loss
Diagnosing Back Pain
Accurate diagnosis is the key to effective treatment. During a consultation, the doctor will conduct an interview, physical examination, and prescribe necessary tests.
Diagnostic Methods:
- X-ray
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
- Computed Tomography (CT)
- Abdominal ultrasound
- Blood and urine tests
- Electromyography
These methods help determine whether the pain is associated with the musculoskeletal system or internal organs.
Back Pain Treatment
Treatment can be medicinal, physiotherapeutic, or surgical — depending on the cause of the pain.
Main Approaches:
- Medication therapy: pain relievers, anti-inflammatory drugs, muscle relaxants
- Physiotherapy: ultrasound, electrostimulation, magnetotherapy
- Massage and manual therapy
- Physical therapy and therapeutic exercise
- Psychotherapy — in cases where the pain has a psychosomatic origin
Comparison of Treatment Methods
| Method | Advantages | Disadvantages | When It’s Used |
|---|---|---|---|
| Medication | Quick pain relief | Side effects, temporary effect | Acute pain, inflammation |
| Physiotherapy | Painless, improves blood flow | Requires a course of sessions | After the acute phase subsides |
| Massage | Relieves tension, improves tone | Not suitable for everyone | Muscle overstrain |
| Physical therapy (PT) | Improves mobility | Requires regular practice | Chronic pain, rehabilitation |
| Surgery | Resolves serious issues | High risk, long recovery | Hernias, fractures, instability |
Preventing Back Pain
Preventing back pain is much easier than treating it. Regular healthy habits help maintain spinal health.
Recommendations:
- Monitor posture — sit with a straight back
- Take breaks during prolonged sitting
- Perform exercises to strengthen the back and abdominal muscles
- Choose an orthopedic mattress and comfortable shoes
- Avoid sudden movements when lifting heavy objects
- Maintain a healthy weight
Simple Exercise Routine
- Forward and backward bends
- Torso twists
- Plank (30–60 seconds)
- Cat-cow pose (from yoga)
- Spinal stretching lying on the back
These exercises can be done daily, even at home.
Chronic Back Pain: How to Live With It
When pain becomes a constant companion, it’s important to learn how to live with and manage it. This is possible with a comprehensive approach.
What Helps:
- Regular physical activity
- Working with a psychologist (if pain has a stress-related origin)
- Controlling your activity levels
- Timely completion of treatment courses
- Lifestyle changes
Living with pain is challenging, but with the right strategy, it is possible to lead a full life.
Earlier we wrote about how to get rid of joint pain.