Back Pain

Back pain is a symptom that can arise from many causes. It can range from a dull, annoying ache to absolute agony. Many cases of back pain are caused by stresses on the muscles and ligaments that support the spine. Sedentary jobs and lifestyles may create a vulnerability to this type of stress or damage. Obesity, which increases both the weight on the spine and the pressure on the discs, is another factor. Strenuous sports such as football and gymnastics can also damage the back.

Treatment
Limited rest combined with appropriate exercise and education is often the first form of treatment. Nonsteroidal, anti- inflammatory drugs (alone or in combination with steroid injections, analgesics, muscle relaxants, or anti- depressants) may be added to the treatment program.

Acute back pain often goes away by itself in a few days or weeks. An ice bag or hot water bottle applied to the back may also help to alleviate pain. Prolonged bed rest is not beneficial because it weakens muscles.

A physician should be notified immediately if there is no relief from pain after a few days in bed, if pain is severe or recurs, if radiating pain, numbness, tingling, or weakening occurs in the arms or legs, if bowel or bladder dysfunction occurs, if a child or elderly person has back pain, or if fever and/or vomiting occurs with back pain.