Do you have a dull, steady ache in your lower back? Or did you suddenly feel a sharp pain shoot through your back? You’re not alone. Back pain is one of the most common health problems people face.
"Anyone can experience back pain,” says Heather Condon, M.D., a family medicine physician with Riverside Fishing Bay Family Practice. “It's probably one of the most common pain complaints that I see in primary care. Fortunately, it often resolves on its own with time."
Below Dr. Condon explains what causes back pain, how to prevent it and when to see a doctor.
What causes back pain?
If you were in a car accident or fell down a flight of stairs, it’s easy to know the reason for your pain, says Dr. Condon. In these cases, you likely stretched or tore a ligament, tendon or muscle. Some less obvious causes for back pain include:
- Slouching in a chair
- Being out of shape
- An intense workout
- Obesity
- Genetics
- Getting older
Arthritis and other medical problems that cause bones to deteriorate can also result in back pain. Additionally, nerve and spinal cord problems – like a herniated or ruptured disc, an infection or sciatica – might be the source of your back pain.
Some medical conditions unrelated to your spine can also cause back pain. These include:
- Kidney stones
- Endometriosis
- Fibromyalgia
- Tumors
- Pregnancy
How to ease your back pain?
Most back pain goes away on its own, but it may take some time. If your back pain just started, here are some ways to relieve, and possibly heal, your pain:
- Place cold packs on the painful area [for the first 24 hours after an injury]
- Use hot packs or a heating pad [for about 20 minutes at a time]
- Take over-the-counter pain medication as needed
- Temporarily stop any activities or exercise that could make your pain worse, but don’t rest all day
- Resume normal activities as soon as you can – moving can help decrease your pain
- Make sure to get enough sleep and eat healthy foods
How to prevent back pain?
Dr Condon notes, "The most important thing you can do for your back is to maintain a healthy weight and exercise regularly. I don't think most people realize what a difference those factors can make. I would also recommend trying to avoid sitting in one position for prolonged periods. If you sit all day at work, it can be helpful to get up periodically to stretch or take a short walk. It may also be helpful to use a chair with lumbar support to avoid poor posture."
When to see a doctor
If your pain does not get better on its own, make an appointment with your primary care provider. They can prescribe medication, physical therapy, or determine if you should see a specialist. Additionally, don’t wait several weeks to make an appointment if you have back pain along with:
- Fever
- Numbness and tingling
- Unexpected weight loss
- Weak, painful or numb legs
If you were in an accident or experienced a serious injury, you should also seek medical attention. To make an appointment with Dr. Condon for your back pain, please visit our website.
