Back Pain

Back Pain: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment Options

Back pain is one of the common complaints of people who work in seating positions over long periods of time. According to the National Institutes of Health, almost 80 percent of adults have low back pain at some point in their life. Back pain is typically caused by any combination of the following: poor posture, an injury or accident, carrying excessive weight, tension, aging, weak core muscles, and/or incorrect lifting technique.

Symptoms of Back Pain

Back pain is a difficult thing to diagnose because it can be caused by so many different things. Symptoms range from a dull ache to sharp, stabbing pains, and depend on the cause of the pain. Some common back pain symptoms include:

• Difficulty walking or standing for long periods
• Stiffness in the back, neck, and/or shoulders
• Difficulty bending over
• Pain that radiates down one or both legs
• Pain that worsens when sitting or standing for long periods
• Pain that worsens with certain tasks or activities such as coughing or sneezing
• Muscle spasms or cramping

Causes of Back Pain

Back pain is typically caused by any combination of the following: poor posture, an injury or accident, carrying excessive weight, tension, aging, weak core muscles, and/or incorrect lifting technique. Common causes of back pain include:

• Strains: lifting too much or without proper technique can cause muscle strain that leads to back pain.
• Disc problems: herniated or slipped discs can cause pressure on nearby nerves and lead to back pain.
• Osteoarthritis: the “wear and tear” of everyday activities or aging can cause arthritis in the spine, resulting in back pain.
• Pregnancy: the extra weight of pregnancy can put added strain on the back and cause pain.
• Poor posture: if you slouch when sitting or fail to stand up straight, this can put added strain on the lower back, creating pain.
• Bad sleeping positions: sleeping on the stomach puts additional stress on the spine, and is generally considered the worst sleeping position.

Treatment Options for Back Pain

Treatment for back pain depend on its cause. Generally, it is recommended to rest until the pain subsides, then attempt light exercises and physical therapy as prescribed by a doctor. Medication may also be prescribed to help control the pain. Other treatments for back pain may include:

• Stretching and strengthening exercises
• Heat/cold applications
• Physical therapy or massage
• Injections
• Surgery

Back pain is often a difficult thing to treat, and finding what works for you may take some trial and error. It is important to speak with your doctor to determine the best treatment options for your individual situation.