Back pain

How is it diagnosed?

Back pain is often one of the most common causes for people to go to the doctor or miss work and is one of the leading causes of disability worldwide. In general, people tend to suffer from back pain at least once.

You can take actions to prevent or alleviate most cases of back pain.

Symptoms

Following are some of the most common Symptoms:

Throbbing pain
Pain radiating down the leg
Pain that increases when standing, walking, or bending
Pain that gets better when lying down

Back pain acute that comes on suddenly and lasts less than six weeks can be caused by a fall or lifting of a heavy object. Back pain that lasts longer than three months (chronic) is less common than acute pain.

Causes

Following are some of the most common disorders related to back pain:

Arthritis
Bony irregularities, there is a lot of curvature of the spine (scoliosis)
Muscle or ligament pressure. Lifting heavy objects or making a sudden wrong move
Bulging or herniated disc
Osteoporosis

When should you see a doctor?

If the pain persists, it is advisable to go to the doctor to know its cause. The Orthopedist or Traumatologist specialist is in charge of treating the locomotor system's problems either due to trauma or illness. The Orthopedist or Traumatologist will be in charge of performing a physical examination and a diagnosis to know the patient's clinical history.

Following are the most common tests that are usually performed for its diagnosis:

X-Rays
Blood test
Magnetic Resonance (MRI)
Neurophysiological tests are generally performed to detect the existence of compression of nerve structures or to monitor them.

Treatment

When there is a pain in the back, it is vital to maintain as much activity and mobility as possible and avoid bed rest. In most cases, the pain goes away in less than seven days when it lasts for more than three months and becomes chronic and becomes more difficult to treat.

In these cases, the Orthopedist or Traumatologist specialist will be in charge of suggesting physical therapy, pharmacotherapy, or suggesting surgery if necessary.

Do not forget to maintain continuous contact with your Orthopedist or Traumatologist to receive more specific and timely information about this issue in case of back pain.

Prevention

Follow these tips to prevent or avoid back pain.

Do low-impact exercises, such as walking, yoga, swimming, is a good option. Ask your doctor about the exercises you can do.
Develops muscle strength and flexibility.
Go to your doctor or physical therapist; they will be in charge of recommending the most appropriate exercises for you. Control your weight
Do not smoke

Avoid rotational movements or pressure on your back. Use your body properly:

Maintain an upright posture. Don't stoop
Sit up straight.
Stand up straight and avoid lifting heavy things.

If you suffer from back pain, stay in continuous contact with your Orthopedist or Traumatologist to receive more specific and timely information about this topic.