If your back is hurting, it is important to see a doctor right away. There are many treatment options available for back pain. Some relief can be obtained with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and over-the-counter pain medications. Physical therapy is another option for treatment. It can strengthen your spine and improve mobility. It can also help prevent further injuries. Massage therapy can also be used to restore function.
While many types of back pain can usually be treated with nonsurgical treatment, some conditions require surgery. Surgical treatment is typically necessary if your back pain is caused by a serious condition, such as spinal stenosis or tumors in the spinal canal. However, for most cases, nonsurgical treatments are sufficient.
A physical exam will help determine the cause of your back pain. A possible infection in your back could be causing your pain and accompanying fever and chills. Patients who are on dialysis, IV drug addicts, or have had recent skin infections are at greater risk of developing spinal infection. Infections of the spine are caused by bacteria. You should immediately consult a doctor if you experience any of these symptoms.
Injuries to the muscles, discs, and joints of the spine are the most common causes for back pain. These injuries can be minor or may result from an injury sustained in a sport or car accident. Your doctor will eventually diagnose the exact cause of pain by performing a series tests. A doctor will then determine a treatment plan that is best suited for you.
Most people experience mild or moderate back pain, but severe back pain can be a constant, debilitating pain. Back pain can be classified as acute, subacute or chronic by most doctors. Acute pain lasts for a few days. The second type, subacute, lasts a week or two and can range from mild to severe.
Lifestyle changes can help reduce your risk of developing back pain. For example, it is best to avoid sitting in one place for prolonged periods of times. When sitting, make sure to use a pillow or rolled-up towel. You can also elevate your feet with a low stool, stack of books, or if you are seated all day. Also, sleeping on your side can help open the joints in your spine and reduce its curvature.
A lower back pain that isn’t normal may indicate an infection or underlying medical condition. There are many treatment options available depending on the reason for the pain. You will get the best treatment if you can quickly diagnose the problem. If the pain is accompanied by fever, loss of leg strength, or difficulty urinating, medical attention should be sought.
Your doctor may recommend surgery to relieve pain caused by a disc. Neurosurgeons can use minimally-invasive techniques or perform a more extensive decompression procedure. These procedures can involve the fusion of vertebrae with bone grafts and instrumentation. After surgery, you may need physical therapy to help your body heal.
Pain medication can also be used to treat back pain. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can reduce pain and relax tight muscles. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) reduce inflammation without producing side effects like cortisone. Your doctor may recommend an MRI to determine the exact location of a slipped disc.
AS starts with inflammation of your sacroiliac joints. These connect your spine to the pelvis. This inflammation causes pain in your low back. In severe cases, prolonged rest can worsen the symptoms. AS symptoms usually improve with activity. AS can usually be treated with success in most cases.
Doctors may recommend acupuncture, in addition to spinal manipulation. These treatments target the trigger areas that cause back pain. In some cases, acupuncture might trigger the release of endorphins. However, these treatments only give temporary relief and are not recommended for long-term use. Many people who use them report significant improvements in their back pain.