Back pain is one of the most prevalent medical conditions in the world. It might range from a subtle, continuous discomfort to a sudden, intense pain that spreads down the leg. It can occur suddenly, such as after an accident, a fall, or carrying something heavy, or it can develop gradually as a result of age-related degenerative changes in the spine.
Back discomfort can also be caused by inflammatory arthritis or other medical issues. Treatment varies according to the cause and symptoms, and there are sometimes multiple contributing variables. However, you can take steps to improve your health and reduce your risk of developing chronic or long-term back pain.
What Does Back Pain Feel Like?
The sensation of back pain varies according to the cause. You may characterize your pain as:
- Burning
- Aching
- Dull
- Sharp
- Shooting
- Stabbing
- Throbbing
You might also experience:
- Muscle tension or stiffness
- tingling, numbness, or weakness.
- Back spasms are sudden muscle twitches or contractions that can range from minor to severely painful.
Pain or other feelings may radiate from your back to other places, such as your buttocks, hips, or legs. Certain positions (such as standing, leaning over, or lying down) may exacerbate or ease your symptoms. Pain may come and go. It may be worse at specific times of day (for example, when you first wake up).
Why is My Back Hurting?
It is not always possible to determine the exact source of your back discomfort on your own. You may be able to pinpoint the exact time when an injury occurred, such as when you twisted or lifted a large object. However, the pain may not always begin with a clear trigger.
Seeing a doctor is the best approach to finding out what’s causing your back pain and how to make it feel better.
How To Prevent Back Pain
These strategies can assist relieve back discomfort when it occurs. They can also assist you avoid experiencing back discomfort in the first place.
Carry less: Heavy briefcases, laptop bags, luggage, and handbags can cause needless stress and pressure on your neck and back. Try to carry fewer items and use bags that distribute weight more equally, such as a rucksack. If possible, use a bag with wheels to keep the weight off your back completely.
Work your core: The muscles in and around your belly and back keep you upright and propel you through your physical activities. Improving them can also help to reduce back pain, strain, and damage. Add strength training workouts with a core focus to your regular fitness routine a few times per week.
Improve your posture: Poor posture can cause needless pressure and strain on your spine. Over time, this can cause discomfort and injury. Regularly remind yourself to roll back your rounded shoulders and sit up straight in your chair.
Change shoes: Wearing high-heeled shoes on a regular basis is likely to cause back harm. When possible, choose shoes with minimally lifted heels that are comfortable and supportive.
Stretch often: Doing the same thing every day can make your muscles weary and more susceptible to strain. Regular stretching can assist improve circulation in those muscles and reduce the chance of back pain and damage.
Who Experiences Back Pain?
Back pain can affect everybody, and virtually everyone will experience it at least once in their lives. Several factors raise the likelihood of developing back discomfort, including:
Fitness level: Physically inactive People are more likely to experience back discomfort. Weak back and stomach muscles, for example, may not provide adequate spine support (core strength). Back discomfort is also more common if you exercise too hard after being idle for a long (overdoing it).
Obesity: It can result from a high-calorie, fat-rich diet mixed with a sedentary lifestyle. This can cause stress in the back.
Job-related risks: These include heavy lifting, pushing, pulling, and twisting, which can cause back injuries. A desk job may also be a factor, particularly if you have an incorrect posture or sit all day in an uncomfortable chair.
Stress level: If you suffer from persistent insomnia, depression, or anxiety, your back pain may become more common and severe.
Age: Back discomfort increases with age, especially after the age of 45.
Heredity: Some back pain diseases are caused by genetic factors.