Back pain is a common issue that affects millions of people worldwide. It can be caused by a variety of factors, some of which are preventable, and others that may require immediate medical attention.
If you've been dealing with back pain, it may be time to see an Austin pain management expert, like those at 512 Pain Management. Read on to see the causes of back pain and when it's time to see a doctor.
Common Back Pain Causes
While back pain can feel the same no matter why it happens, knowing the cause can help you find back pain relief for your specific situation.
Poor Posture or Repetitive Movement
One of the most common causes of back pain is poor posture. If you spend a lot of time sitting or standing in the same position, it can put a strain on your back muscles and lead to pain.
Additionally, repetitively lifting heavy objects improperly can cause back pain, especially if you don't use your legs to lift the weight.
Strains and Sprains
Another common cause of back pain is muscle strain or sprain. This can happen if you suddenly twist or turn your back, or if you overexert yourself during physical activity. In some cases, muscle strain or sprain can be treated with rest and over-the-counter pain medication. Make sure you exercise your back safely.
Herniated or Ruptured Discs
Herniated discs are another common cause of back pain. This occurs when the soft tissue between the spinal bones puts pressure on the nerves in your back. This can cause sharp, shooting pain that can be debilitating. If you suspect you have a herniated disc, it's important to see a doctor to get a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.
Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis can also lead to severe back pain. This is a degenerative joint disease that can cause the cartilage in your joints to wear down over time, leading to pain and stiffness. While there is no cure for osteoarthritis, there are treatments available that can help manage the symptoms.
Injury
Injuries can leave you suffering even if you thought the incident was minor. Because the back is fragile, it can be injured easily. Another issue is that you may not start feeling pain immediately after an injury, which may lead to you further causing damage by taking inappropriate actions.
After an injury, rest is one of the best steps to begin the recovery process. If the pain won’t go away, you need to see a doctor.
When To See A Doctor for Back Pain
When should you see a doctor for back pain? If your pain is severe, lasts for more than a few days, or is accompanied by other symptoms such as numbness, tingling, or weakness in your legs, it's important to seek medical attention. Your doctor can help diagnose the underlying cause of your back pain and recommend a treatment plan that's right for you.
While most back pain may be related to a minor health issue, there are a few symptoms that can indicate a serious medical problem. If you experience the following symptoms, you should go see a doctor for back pain immediately:
- Back pain after a blow to the back
- New bowel or bladder problems paired with back pain
- Falling hard on your back
- Developing a fever
Don't Suffer From Back Pain: Let 512 Pain Management Help You Find Relief
You don't need to just bear with the pain. 512 Pain Management is here to help. We can provide back pain treatment that will help you overcome your pain.
Our procedures are minimally invasive, including options like trigger point injections, to help you feel relief fast. Let us be your Greater Austin pain management provider.