The dreaded pain

Everyone in his or her lifetime experiences some episode back trouble or pain. It is one of the most common conditions known to afflict humans of all shapes and sizes. The spinal column is made up of 24 bones called the vertebrae which are divided into – the cervical (in the neck), thoracic (middle of the back), lumbar (lower back) and the sacral (the lowest part of the spine). The spinal cord, which is essentially a bundle of nerves, runs through the vertebrae and helps in every activity that we carry out. Although the spine is made up of 24 bones, the spinal column is one of the most flexible groups of bones in the body. One can sit, stand, run, lie down and play sport primarily because of this unique flexibility. The spinal column is supported by a connection of muscles that support the spinal column.

Reasons for back pain

Back pain can occur in almost all the different regions of the back and can be caused due to a variety of reasons. Bad posture, sport injuries, hyper flexing of the back, obesity etc all cause back pains. Apart from these spondylosis and arthritis are also common causes of back pain. In some cases tumors or infections are also known to cause back pain. However, in a majority of cases mechanical reasons, that is, posture, injuries and obesity are the main culprits causing back pain. Injuries can also result in herniating of the vertebrae (dislocation) or rupture of the muscles of the back, which in chronic cases requires surgeries.

What is the treatment?

The treatment of back pains is based on the cause. They can range from ice packs and heat fermentation for sport injuries to the use of anti-inflammatory and muscle –relaxants, which should only be used after a prescription from a doctor. Most experts now do not recommend prolonged bed rest as a treatment for back pain. Infact, some suggest that it may delay recovery. Acupuncture therapy and a few sessions at the Chiropractor are also good options to address the pain. Regular exercise can help strengthening of the back and abdominal muscles, and can prevent a majority of back troubles.