If your back is hurting, it is important to see a doctor right away. There are many treatments for back pain available. Over-the-counter pain relievers and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs can provide some relief. Another option is physical therapy. It can strengthen your spine muscles and improve your flexibility. It can also prevent future injuries. Massage therapy can also aid in restoring function.
Many common back pain conditions can be treated non-surgically. However, there are some cases that require surgery. If your back pain is severe, such as from spinal stenosis and tumors in the spine canal, surgery is usually necessary. For most cases, however, nonsurgical treatment is sufficient.
A physical exam can help determine what type of back pain you’re experiencing. A back infection is possible if your pain is accompanied with fever and chills. Spinal infections are more common among people who use IV drugs, those who have recently been diagnosed with skin cancers, and those who have recently undergone dialysis. Infections of spine are usually caused by bacteria. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, you should visit a doctor immediately.
Injuries to the muscles, discs, and joints of the spine are the most common causes for back pain. These injuries may be minor or can result from an accident or impact in sports. Through a series test, your doctor will determine the exact cause of your pain. The doctor will then recommend the best treatment plan for you.
Most people experience mild to moderate back discomfort, but severe back problems can cause permanent, debilitating pain. Most doctors categorize back pain as either acute, subacute, or chronic. The first, or acute, category lasts for just a few days. The second type, subacute, lasts a week or two and can range from mild to severe.
Lifestyle changes can also help to reduce the risk of back pain. For example, you should avoid sitting in one position for long periods of time. You should use a pillow and a towel to support your back when you sit down. If you’re sitting all day, you should also keep your feet elevated by a low stool or stack of books. You can also sleep on your side to open your spine and reduce its curvature.
Pain that occurs in your lower back may be indicative of an infection or an underlying medical problem. Treatment options vary greatly depending on the cause of the pain. A quick diagnosis will help you get the most effective treatment. You should seek medical attention if you feel the pain is accompanied or exacerbated by fever, loss strength, or difficulty urinating.
Your doctor may recommend surgery to relieve pain caused by a disc. The choice is between minimally-invasive or more extensive decompression procedures by neurosurgeons. These procedures may involve fusing vertebrae together with bone grafts or instrumentation. After surgery, you may need physical therapy to help your body heal.
Pain medication is another treatment for back pain. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can reduce pain and relax tight muscles. Nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), reduce inflammation without side effects such as 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 can cause pain in your lower back. In severe cases, prolonged rest can worsen the symptoms. AS symptoms improve with activity. AS can usually be treated with success in most cases.
Doctors may also recommend acupuncture. These treatments target trigger points that cause back discomfort. In some cases, acupuncture can trigger the release endorphins. These treatments provide temporary relief but are not recommended to be used for long-term. Many people who use them report significant relief from back pain.