When it comes to back pain, it is often hard to identify it as a serious medical condition, or a result of overexertion and physical exhaustion. Many people experience back pain due to intervertebral disc degeneration, which occurs when the discs located between the vertebrae of the spine begin to weaken with age. As these discs break down, they lose their cushioning ability. Along with this condition, bone disorders such as scoliosis, osteoporosis, and arthritis can be to blame for moderate to severe back discomfort.
Perfect Posture: Possibly the simplest way to reduce back pain and pressure is to regularly practice good posture. Keeping your spine in alignment can help to significantly alleviate unnecessary stress.
A Healthy Diet: Though it may sound cliche, eating a healthy diet and participating in routine exercise can also play a large part in back pain mitigation and prevention. As a part of a well-balanced diet, special concentration on Vitamin D and calcium is almost essential. If one possesses an aversion to sunlight (which is the way most people obtain Vitamin D), ingesting it via supplements or milk can aid in bone strength and viability. These nutrients help counteract osteoporosis, which is often to blame for numerous bone fractures that can eventually lead to back pain.
Exercise Regularly: Participating in yoga or Tai Chi challenges your balance, which can potentially help with spinal alignment. Being overweight can put a tremendous strain on the tendons and ligaments in the spinal column, so weight loss can often improve, if not cure, back pain.
Medical Professional Opinion
In most cases, back pain will dissipate over time, but if numbness and/or tingling is experienced, or if the pain is so intense that regular bodily function is affected, an appointment with a doctor may need to be made. It is also imperative to see your doctor if there is back pain along with any of the following problems: trouble urinating; weakness, pain, or numbness in your legs; fever; or unintentional weight loss, as these could be symptoms of a serious underlying condition.
First Opinions
When seeing a doctor for the treatment of back pain, it is best to start with a primary care physician, as he or she can point you in the direction of a doctor with a special concentration on the musculoskeletal system, such as a chiropractor or physical therapist. The doctor will provide unique treatment for your specific condition or disorder, which may or may not include physical therapy, medications, or manual manipulation.
