In 90% of cases, the pain is temporary and goes away without surgery, but it is important to understand the cause of the pain to prevent future recurrences. Let’s take a look at some common causes of back pain.
Strain/Sprain – The most likely suspects tend to be muscle injuries. Lifting heavy objects, bending awkwardly, or having poor posture can lead to overexertion and torn muscles and ligaments. Constant strain on the lower back can cause painful muscle spasms in people who are in poor physical condition.
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Fracture – Often caused by falls, accidents, trauma or overuse and repetitive body movements, bone injuries and fractures make it the second most common cause of back pain. Conditions such as spondylolysis or osteoporosis increase the risk of fractures.
arthritis – Arthritis, a very common type of joint inflammation, usually afflicts people over the age of 50. Osteoarthritis is one of the common causes of back pain. Narrowing of the space around the spinal cord, known as spinal stenosis, can sometimes result from spinal arthritis.
disk problem – Discs cushion the bones between the vertebrae. This bone can sometimes rupture, causing a herniated disc. Or it may swell and press on a nerve.
structural problems– If the spine is narrowed (spinal stenosis) or curved (scoliosis), the spinal cord may be compressed, causing chronic back pain and sciatica.
Illness – A variety of illnesses can also cause back pain, including spinal tumors, infections, cancer, kidney stones, abdominal aortic aneurysm, inflammatory diseases, and emotional stress.
Back pain can affect anyone, including children and teenagers, and becomes more common as people age. Risk factors include lack of exercise, being overweight, illness, poor lifting technique, and psychological conditions such as depression and anxiety. Smoking may make your back pain worse.
Back pain is a prevalent problem that can affect anyone, regardless of age or lifestyle. It can be prevented and treated by proactively identifying the cause. Exercising regularly, maintaining a healthy weight, and practicing good posture are some of the steps you can take to help reduce your risk of back pain. If symptoms worsen or persist, immediate medical intervention is essential as delayed treatment may worsen the condition. By prioritizing your spinal health through preventive measures and prompt intervention, you can enjoy a life free from the constraints of back pain.
(Author: Dr. Ankush Garg – Consultant – Spine Surgery, CK Birla Hospital, Gurugram)