More than 65 million Americans suffer from back pain every year. Back pain can develop anywhere from the neck to the lower spine. It is an all-too-familiar problem that can range from a dull, constant ache to a sudden, sharp pain that leaves you incapacitated.
Back pain should not be equated with a need for bed rest. Treatment is usually only necessary for chronic back pain, which is pain that lasts for more than 3 months. It can also directly result from disease of the internal organs, such as kidney stones, kidney infections, blood clots, or bone loss. Back pain is extremely common in today’s society.
Back pain can come without warning, and it can be debilitating especially if you have to concentrate on your work. It is the second most common reason people visit their family physician (just behind upper respiratory infections). It could be acute or chronic.
Chronic back pain can be treated with or without surgery, although doctors usually recommend non-surgical treatments first, and can be caused from a wide array of conditions. It is the involuntary, habituated contraction of muscles induced by emotional issues, stress and an ongoing reaction to the pain (except where there is a severe physical injury or a documented disease process). It tends to last a long time, and is not relieved by standard types of medical management.Chronic back pain can become a lifelong burden for the patient.
Lower back pain can occur in people who are overweight, in poor physical shape, have poor posture or are compelled to sit or stand for long periods of time. It is one of the most common causes of job-related disability and why some people miss work.
Back pain can develop anywhere from the neck to the lower spine. It is an all-too-familiar problem that can range from a dull, constant ache to a sudden, sharp pain that leaves you incapacitated.