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Everybody has experienced back pain at some point in their life. From injuries to overuse and aging, back pain is a common issue with countless causes. While anybody can experience back pain, the prevalence of it increases with age as the spine becomes less flexible and more prone to injury. The back is a complex structure composed of muscles, ligaments, tendons, discs and bones. Therefore, back pain may be the result of any combination of structural issues.

Most cases of back pain are acute, meaning that they only last for a short period and go away on their own with rest and self-care. In more severe cases, back pain can persist for over 12 weeks, turning into a chronic condition. Chronic back pain may be debilitating and frequently return without known cause.

Symptoms:

Symptoms of back pain depend on the condition and its severity. Some individuals may experience mild discomfort while others are unable to move due to their level of pain. Back pain is a general term used to describe the symptoms associated with a variety of spinal conditions.

Common symptoms and forms of back pain include:

  • Stabbing, throbbing or constant back pain
  • Pain that radiates to the extremities
  • Inflammation
  • Tenderness to the touch
  • Numbness or tingling that radiates to the neck, arms or legs

Causes:

Back pain occurs for any number of reasons including age, overuse and injury. Degenerative disc disease (DDD) refers to the natural wear-and-tear that the spine endures with age, making it more susceptible to tears, sprains and herniated discs).

Common causes of back pain include:

  • Osteoporosis (condition leading to brittle, porous bones)
  • Sciatica
  • Arthritis
  • Sports injuries
  • Slouching
  • Scoliosis

Treatments:

Most back pain will subside on its own with rest and self-care. Other cases of back pain will heal with conservative treatment methods, including physical therapy, stretching, yoga, adopting an anti-inflammatory diet, or taking non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Occasionally, back pain will require surgical interventions to correct the structural issue responsible for pain.

Treatment of back pain depends on the condition causing it. Only a skilled clinician like the physicians at Brain2Spine Institute can provide a precise diagnosis for your chronic and recurrent back pain. Visit Brain2Spine Institute for a comprehensive diagnosis.

For a comprehensive evaluation from the experts at Brain2Spine Institute, call 727-828-8400.

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