How to Treat Back Pain

The purpose of a backbone is to safeguard the spinal cord which extends downward from the brain. The spinal cord is essential for controlling reflex activities and the transmission of nerve signals, therefore, it is highly important to protect it. Because of the backbone, we are able to stay upright as the long bony structure gives stiffness to the body.

What is back pain?

Back pain is one of the most common type of pains experienced by people. Back pain is of two types: lower back pain and upper back pain, it is associated with problems in the backbone, discs, muscles, ligaments, spinal cord and nerves or internal organs.

Symptoms of back pain

In case of a back pain, it is difficult to perform daily tasks. Mostly, the back pain subsides after rest and good diet. if the pain persists, then medical help be must be sought. The most common symptoms of a back pain are:

• Stabbing pain
• Swelling at the back
• Muscle pain
• Joint pain
• Pain near the shoulder blades
• Pain that extends down from the nape of the neck
• Pain in or near the backbone
• Urinary problems
• Pain in the lower back muscles
• Pain that extends till legs or hands

 

Causes of back pain 

Some back pains are short lived, which may occur due to lifting heavy objects, malnutrition, stress, weariness or slight injury; such back pains may improve with a good night sleep or a massage. Some may remain under constant suffering, such pains do not go away caused by:

• Arthritis
• Severe injury
• Kidney issues, like kidney stones or infections
• Osteoporosis
• Disc problems like herniated disc
• Muscle or ligament problems
• Extreme deficiency of calcium and vitamins
• Tiring occupation
• Poor posture
• Sciatica
• Other infections / illnesses

 

 

 

How to treat back pain 

Depending on the nature of the back pain, a medical examination is required. Sometimes, the medical experts need a detailed examination of the back which is done through X-rays, MRI or CT scans. Back pain may be treated in a number of ways:

• Resting: Sleeping on your back in a reclined position or sleeping on your  side in the fetal position for a few hours can really help; it is advisable to  keep a pillow under the aching region for greater relief. However,  do not rest your back for long periods as it has detrimental effects on  your health.
• Over the counter pain relief medication like ibuprofen or naproxen can be bought for treating back pain. These medicinal drugs will only provide temporary relief and should not be used as a long term solution.
•  Herbs: many people also consider treating back pain with herb supplements. Consuming the recommended dosage of ginger or turmeric is a great way managing back pain. 
• Cold hot therapy: Using cold packs or heat packs may also reduce back pack pain or joint pain significantly. In case of acute back pain, use cold therapy first and then apply heat. Use continuous heat treatment for chronic back pain and expose your back to cold therapy to reduce soreness of the muscles.
• Others: Remedies like acupuncture and massaging (often with special oils like aloe vera oil) have also proven to be really helpful.

 

Summary 

Back pain is common and may occur due to various reasons. The pain may occur in the lower back or the upper region, depending on the kind of pain you are experiencing. In many cases pain can be reduced using consistent natural remedies or seeking medical help.