What is back pain?

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Back pain is a common condition that can affect any part of the spine. It can range from a dull ache to a sharp or shooting pain. It can also cause numbness, tingling, or weakness in the legs.
What causes back pain? Back pain can have many causes, such as muscle or ligament strain, bulging or ruptured disks, arthritis, osteoporosis, ankylosing spondylitis, or spinal stenosis. Sometimes, back pain can be triggered by stress, poor posture, lifting, bending, or twisting. Rarely, back pain can be a sign of a serious problem such as a fracture, infection, or cancer.

How is back pain diagnosed?

 

Diagnosis is based on symptoms, medical history, and physical activity. They will also examine your back and check for signs of nerve damage. They may order tests such as X-rays, CT scans, MRIs, or blood tests to rule out other conditions or find the exact cause of your pain.
How is back pain treated? Most back pain improves with home treatment and self-care, such as rest, ice, heat, over-the-counter pain relievers, gentle exercises, and stretching. If your pain is severe or does not improve after a few weeks, your doctor may prescribe stronger medications, physical therapy, injections, or surgery.  

How can I prevent back pain?

 

You can reduce your risk of back pain by keeping your back strong and flexible, maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding smoking, lifting properly, using ergonomic furniture and equipment, and managing stress.