Back pain frequently results in missed work days and healthcare appointments. It might be excruciating and paralysing. It can be brought on by a variety of medical conditions, injuries, and physical activity. People of any age might experience back pain for a variety of reasons. Lower back pain is more likely to develop as people age because of things like previous occupations and degenerative disc disease.
The bony lumbar spine, the discs between the vertebrae, the ligaments surrounding the spine and discs, the spinal cord and nerves, the lower back muscles, the abdominal and pelvic internal organs, and the skin around the lumbar region may all be contributing factors to lower back pain.
Inflammation of the spine, aorta issues, and chest tumours can all cause pain in the upper back.
Back pain types and symptoms, causes, diagnosis, and therapy are discussed in this article by Matrix Testing, a leading diagnostics centre in Hyderabad. We anticipate that you will find it useful. Continue reading….
Types of Back Pain
- Spinal stenosis
This happens when the spaces between the vertebrae in the spine get very small, which could put some strain on the spinal cord. Spinal stenosis typically affects the lower back and neck. Age groups above 50 may frequently encounter this issue. Although it has no symptoms, spinal pressure can cause some people to experience back pain, weakened muscles, and numbness. Additionally, persons who have been in an accident or sustained an injury may experience back pain.
- Middle Back Pain
The backache manifests between the below the ribcage and above the lumbar region. The symptoms are extremely elusive, and people may occasionally become frustrated. Major risks for middle back pain include rising obesity rates and a decline in physical activity.
- Herniated Disc
Your back may feel suddenly strained. Age-related deterioration may cause it. By performing some everyday back-strengthening exercises, you can treat this tension. Additionally, herniated discs can result from being overweight. The cause of a sudden strain is lifting hefty weights.
- Thoracic Back Pain
Disorders in the upper back region may be the cause of thoracic back pain. It may result in lower back, middle back, and neck pain. Fever, excessive weight gain, nerve agony, and physical damage are some of the symptoms. Anyone who has recently experienced trauma and develops thoracic back pain should see a doctor.
- Scoliosis
The spinal cord has a curvature that can be noticed from birth or even later in childhood. More often than males, girls will have this back pain diagnosed. People with scoliosis often have slanted spines, which can lead to weight gain or higher levels of stress. A healthy spinal nerve always has a front to back curve. As the condition worsens, the disease may present complications at an early age.
Symptoms of Back Pain
If your back pain doesn’t cure within two weeks of starting, consult a doctor. Back pain can occasionally be a sign of a serious medical condition.
The following signs may point to a more serious medical condition:
- A lack of bladder or bowel control
- Weakness in one or both legs, tingling, or numbness
- Back pain following an accident or injury, like a fall or hit to the back
- Intense, ongoing discomfort that worsens at night
- Unaccounted-for weight loss
- Fever
If you experience any of these signs, let your doctor know. Through Matrix Diagnostic labs, you can easily identify the damage, and can help to take preventive measures.
Causes of Back Pain
Back pain may be caused by issues with the spine, such as osteoporosis. Muscles, ligaments, tendons, discs, and bones form the intricate structure of the human back, which supports the body and makes movement possible. The discs that act as cushions for the spine’s segments resemble cartilage. Back pain may cause strain, illnesses, and bad posture, among other things.
Strain
Back pain commonly streams from tension, strain, or injury. Frequent causes are:
- Strained muscles or ligaments
- damaged disks
- muscle spasm
- injuries, fracture or falls
- muscle tension
Activities that lead to spasm or strain include:
- Lifting heavy weights
- Improper lifting
- Making an abrupt and awkward movement
Structural problems
- Every vertebra in the spine is cushioned by discs, which can rupture. Back pain will arise from increased pressure on a nerve if the disc ruptures.
- Disks that are bulging: Much like discs that are rupturing, a disc that is bulging might put extra pressure on a nerve.
- Sciatica: A bulging or herniated disc pressing on a nerve causes an acute, shooting pain to go through the buttock and down the back of the leg.
- Osteoarthritis, a kind of arthritis, can lead to issues with the hips, lower back, and other joints. The area surrounding the spinal cord may occasionally become smaller. Spinal stenosis is what this is.
- Abnormal spine curvature: Back pain may occur from an atypical spine curve. Scoliosis, in which the spine curves to one side, serves as an illustration.
- Osteoporosis: Compression fractures are more common due to the brittleness and porousness of bones, including the spine’s vertebrae.
- Back pain can result from kidney issues such as kidney infections or stones. So it’s better to go for kidney diagnostic tests.
Poor posture
When using computers, adopting a very slumped posture can eventually worsen back and shoulder issues. Poor posture or some common daily activities can also cause back pain.
Examples include:
- Twisting
- Coughing or sneezing
- Muscle tension
- Over-stretching
- Bending awkwardly or for long periods
- Lifting, Pushing, pulling, or carrying something
- Standing or sitting for long periods
- Bending the neck forward, as when using a computer or while driving
- Long periods of time spent driving without stopping, even when not crouched
- Sleeping on a mattress that does not maintain the body’s alignment and provide support
Diagnosis
Usually, all that is required to diagnose back pain is a physical examination. Your doctor might test your during the physical:
- Reflexes
- Ability to stand and walk
- Leg strength
- Spines ranges of motion
Your doctor might request additional tests if a significant condition is detected, such as:
- X-rays can diagnose fractures or fractured bones, changes brought by ageing, and changes in the alignment of the spin. They can also reveal how the bones are aligned.
- Herniated discs or issues with tissue, tendons, nerves, ligaments, muscles, blood vessels, and bones can be discovered through a CT or MRI scan centre.
- Small quantities of radioactive material are used in bone scans to assist medical professionals see more details in the spine, such as infections and fractures.
- electrophysiological tests that help measure the electrical activity in muscles, including an electromyography or EMG. This examination aids medical professionals in looking for muscle and nerve issues.
Treatment:
- Exercises for back pain will assist you in overcoming your back discomfort. Exercises for back pain might occasionally include swimming and walking.
- You can feel better if you eat some healthy food and work on losing weight.
- Alternate your positions frequently.
- Avoiding prolonged sitting.
- Try to avoid lifting heavy things.
- You could relieve your back ache by rubbing some essential oils on it.
Going for a checkup and knowing the causes of your back pain is vital if you have been dealing with it for a while. The top diagnostic physicians at Matrix Diagnosis are always available to tell you with certainty if you have any major underlying illnesses that need medical attention.