Back pain affects almost everyone at some point in their life. The location of the symptom can be the upper, mid, or lower back. While not all back pain is serious, some types can hinder your ability to engage in daily activities. Below are scenarios that may require medical attention and back pain management.
What is Back Pain?
Back pain refers to pain that occurs anywhere in the upper, mid, or lower back. Pain in the lower back is very common since it’s the most flexible area of the spine. Back injuries and underlying medical conditions that affect the soft tissue, bones, or vertebral discs are among the main causes of back pain.
You may experience acute (short-term) or chronic (long-term) pain depending on the root cause. For example, pain due to a minor muscle strain may resolve itself within days or weeks. Conditions such as spinal arthritis, a herniated disc, and spinal cord injury typically result in ongoing pain.
4 Important Reasons to Visit a Doctor for Back Pain
Here are four key circumstances that may warrant a trip to your doctor’s office according to medical experts:
1. Pain Lasts Six Weeks or More
Some types of back pain get better within weeks. Pain lasting more than six weeks is considered chronic or serious. Doctors urge patients to consider the benefits of treatment to avoid debilitating pain or reduced mobility. In fact, one of several studies reveals that back pain is a leading cause of limited mobility and missed work days.
2. Over-the-Counter Painkillers Fail to Work
NSAIDS (Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs), such as Naproxen, Aspirin, and Ibuprofen, are effective in treating pain related to minor conditions. These include soft tissue strains, sprains, and swelling from spinal arthritis. NSAIDs work by reducing the swelling that causes pain. Similarly, see your doctor if home care therapies, such as hot and cold therapy or stretch exercises, fail to provide relief.
3. Other Back Pain Symptoms Are Present
In some cases, pain is accompanied by other symptoms that may signal a serious underlying condition. These include pain that shifts to your lower body, numbness, tingling, a burning sensation, and leg weakness. Loss of bladder or bowel control or reduced mobility may require immediate medical attention. Overlooking symptoms can lead to complications, such as nerve damage.
4. Pain Disrupts Daily Functioning
Back pain can be constant or off-and-on and may grow worse with time. Depending on frequency and severity, you may experience trouble carrying out activities of daily life. Some patients lose the ability to focus at work, study, do daily chores, or engage in physical activities. Early pain management can help avoid these complications as well as surgery.
Take Charge of Back Pain By Calling Your Doctor
A healthcare provider can diagnose and treat your pain, and recommended solutions will depend on the results of your medical exam. Non-surgery treatments can range from prescription pain injections and massage treatments to physical therapy. Treatment aims to address the underlying cause of your symptoms and help you return to enjoying the activities you love. Reach out to your trusted healthcare provider so you can start the healing process.
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