Back pain is a common ailment that most people will experience during their lifetimes. While this health issue doesn’t usually cause serious effects, it can limit movement and decrease quality of life. Fortunately, back pain is relatively easy to treat when you follow doctor’s orders and lead a healthy lifestyle.
People with back pain can experience a few distinct symptoms. Aches are common, but some people also experience more intense shooting pains. In some cases, back problems can also cause pain in one or both legs.
Back pain can occur spontaneously, but it may also be linked to the following medical conditions:
Determining the cause of back pain is essential for receiving the proper treatment. In this case, doctors will perform physical examinations and diagnostic testing, such as MRIs and x-rays.
It’s worth noting that back pain can impact people of all ages. However, some people have a higher risk than others based on certain factors. Back pain typically affects people aged 30 and older, particularly those who don’t participate in regular exercise. Being overweight or obese can also increase a person’s risk.
Some activities can also increase the chance of experiencing back pain. This includes poor posture when sitting and standing or improper lifting of heavy objects.
In most cases, back pain can be addressed with home remedies. This includes things like over-the-counter medication and avoiding strenuous activities. However, physical activity is necessary to keep the back healthy, as inactivity can actually cause back pain to worsen.
In the event that home remedies are not effective, doctors can recommend physical therapy. A therapist will use targeted exercise to strengthen the muscles in the back. Other treatments can include:
Doctors may also recommend surgery to address more serious back issues. This is often the case when back pain contributes to weakness in the muscles.
Leading a healthy lifestyle can help a person avoid back pain. This entails eating a nutritious diet to maintain a healthy weight. Physical activity is also important, as it boosts the strength of the muscles in the back and abdomen.