Backache

• Article
• 2021-01-29

Back pain is one of the most common medical problems in the United States. It can range from a dull, constant pain to a sudden, sharp pain. Sometimes it can come on suddenly - from an accident, a fall, or lifting something heavy, or it can develop slowly due to age-related degenerative changes in the spine. In some cases, inflammatory conditions or other medical conditions cause back pain.

Treatment varies depending on the cause and symptoms; however, there are steps you can take to improve your health and reduce your chance of developing chronic or long-term back pain.

Insight into the anatomy of the back

There are many different structures in the anatomy of the back that work together to support your body. Problems with any of these structures can cause back pain.

• There are four parts of the spine:
  • Cervical spine.
  • Thoracic spine.
  • Lumbar spine.
  • Sacrum and coccyx.
• Parts of the spine and back include:
  • Vertebrae - small bones stacked on top of each other that protect the spinal cord.
  • Spinal cord - long bundle of nerves that run down the back through a channel in the vertebrae.
  • Intervertebral discs - cushion-like pads between the vertebrae that act as shock absorbers and spacers for the spine.
  • Ligaments - short bands of tough, flexible tissue that hold the vertebrae in place.
  • Tendons - tissue cord that connects muscle to bone.
  • Muscles - a bundle of dynamic fibers that support your spine and upper body and help you move.

Symptoms

Back pain can range from localized pain in a specific area to generalized pain that spreads all over the back. Sometimes the pain radiates from the back to other parts of your body, such as the buttocks, legs, or abdomen. The intensity of back pain varies from person to person. Depending on the type, cause and location of your back pain, you may experience:

• Increased pain when lifting and bending.
• Worsening pain when resting, sitting or standing.
• Back pain that comes and goes.
• Stiffness in the morning on waking and reduced back pain with activity.
• Pain radiating from the back to the buttocks, leg, or hip.

You should see a doctor if your pain does not improve after a few weeks or if any of the following symptoms occur with your back pain:

• Numbness and tingling.
• Severe back pain that does not improve with medication (see Treatment section).
• Back pain after a fall or injury.
• Back pain along with:
  • Difficulty urinating.
  • Weakness, pain, or numbness in your legs.
  • Fever.
  • Weight loss that you didn't plan on.

Treatments

Doctors treat back pain with a variety of options, including medications, non-surgical treatments, and surgical treatments.

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