Back Pain Health Care Information

 

Back pain affects many of us at some point in our lives, and it’s one of the most common reasons people go to the doctor or miss work. Thankfully though, most back pain is preventable through improving your physical condition and practicing good body mechanics such as standing, sitting and lifting properly.


Back pain is often caused by strained muscles and ligaments due to injuries. In other cases, it’s caused from mechanical problems such as bulging or ruptured disks, sciatica, arthritis, skeletal irregularities and osteoporosis.

 

You may be at greater risk of developing back pain if you are:

  • a smoker
  • overweight
  • middle-aged
  • working in a physically strenuous job or a sedentary job
  • not getting regular exercise
  • stressed or depressed

Most back pain gradually improves with self-care and home treatment, which could include a regular schedule of over-the-counter pain relievers. Although the pain can take up to several weeks to disappear completely, you should notice a decrease in pain and an increase in range of motion within the first three days. If you don’t, see your doctor, who may suggest stronger medications or other therapy such as physical therapy and exercise.