Back pain is one of the most common complaints bringing a person to meet a physician. It is also responsible for missed work days. Almost everyone experiences some form of back pain at least once during their lives. Acute pain is experienced most commonly and lasts less than 6 weeks. Pain lasting more than 3 months is termed chronic back pain. Chronic lower back pain causes extensive disability and affects about 12% of the population.
There are numerous causes for back pain. The majority are due to acute muscle strains and resolve within in a few weeks. The following are the major causes of back pain
The pain in the back may occur anywhere along the spine but is most common in the lower back. Along with the back pain, the patient may experience additional symptoms
Back pain is an extremely common symptoms with a large list of possible underlying causes. In a patient with a clear history of muscle strain which occurred following any form of strenuous exercise, physical examination alone is adequate and additional tests are usually not be needed. But if the history is unclear, the following tests may be performed
The treatment of the pain depends on the underlying cause of the pain.
These are generally due to muscle strains and the treatment is supportive.
Various different options are available for the treatment of chronic back pain. These are:
Certain conditions may require surgical correction for pain relief. Structural deformity, cancers and infection often benefit from a procedure. Very severe back pain which has not responded to therapy may resolve with surgery. This can be discussed with the treating physician to decide on treatment options.
Acute back pain with an identified cause resolves on tis own and with supportive care. Chronic back pain is however more challenging to address. Several patients have recurrence of the pain and most continue to have a dull pain for an extended period of time.
This post was last modified on July 14, 2023 7:54 am
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