At one time or another, most of us have experienced back pain. The leading cause of missed work, back pain contributes to over $50 billion a year in lost productivity. Most of the time, these injuries heal themselves. However, some back pain requires medical attention, and sometimes surgery. But how can you tell the difference?
Knowing Those Normal Aches and Pains
The most prevalent back injuries include muscle strains and spasms. These generally occur due to overexertion, for instance lifting something extremely heavy or twisting the body into an unnatural position. These kinds of injuries can generally be remedied with over-the-counter anti-inflammatories and proper rest. Applying mild heat to the injured muscles also works. For muscle tightness, medical massage can relieve tension and pain.
Avoiding back pain due to overexertion requires preventative care. Appropriate preparation for physical activity is critical, and not only stretching before exercise. Maintaining optimum muscle condition through strength building exercise is also important. Protecting the back by using the right lifting, twisting, and bending postures also helps.
When Pain Requires Immediate Attention
Sometimes back pain starts without any discernible exertion, or as the result of a sudden injury. In those cases, or if pain persists, it’s important to see a doctor. The following symptoms require attention from a physician:
- Pain accompanied by numbness in the arms or legs could be a sign of a herniated disc or spinal stenosis.
- Sharp pain that occurs with any movement, especially after a fall or other trauma, could be caused by a spinal fracture.
- Consistent achiness or “creakiness” of the joints often indicates some form of arthritis, especially if the pain isn’t fully alleviated by over-the-counter anti-inflammatories.
- Any back pain accompanied by fever, burning during urination, or blood in the urine requires immediate medical attention, because it signals an infection or stones in the kidneys.
- Moderate back pain that lasts more than a few days or interferes with daily activities is worth a doctor’s visit.
The doctor usually does x-rays and other diagnostic exams to diagnose the cause of back pain. Treatment may require follow-up with an orthopedist. Since the spine contains the central nerve for the body inside the spinal column, it’s important to see an orthopedic doctor who has specialized experience with back injuries and spinal treatment.
Treatment varies, depending on the condition. While arthritis may be treated with prescription medications or other conservative options, physical therapy may be the answer for another condition. In limited cases, back surgery is the most appropriate option.
If you have questions about back pain or back surgery, please contact us at Central Florida Regional Hospital. The physicians and staff at our Spine Center are skilled at diagnosing, treating, and preventing back pain. Visit us online or call Consult-a-Nurse® 1-800-445-3392.