Identifying The Common Causes Of Back Pain

Understanding the Causes of Back Pain

An aching back is a problem suffered by more than 50% of
American adults. According to the American Chiropractic
Association, it is estimated that over 80% of Americans will
suffer from back pain at some time in their life. Becoming
familiar with the causes of back pain and their subsequent
treatment protocols can be of great help should you ever find
yourself suffering from back pain. While both men and women can
develop back problems, there are some causes that primarily
affect women. Other groups susceptible to chronic back pain
include the elderly, athletes, the overweight and people with a
genetic disposition to back problems.

Typical Causes of Back Pain

The primary causes of back pain are related to muscular sprains
and strains, spinal disc injuries and diseases which affect the
joints, such as arthritis. Acute back pain stems from a short
term injury or strain and can be treated with rest and
readjustment. Chronic causes of back pain are generally more
difficult to identify and treat. While many of the symptoms are
similar, identifying the underlying causes is the key to finding
effective treatment.

Coccydynia – Considered fairly rare among the causes of back
pain, Coccydynia is a localized pain that stems from the coccyx
or tailbone. This condition can manifest as the result of a
fall, or from giving birth. Lower back pain caused by
Coccydynia is almost always aggravated by sitting. Treatment
for severe cases of this condition can include a surgical
removal of the coccyx.

Pregnancy-Related Back Pain – It is commonly known that
pregnancy is one of the main causes of back pain in women. The
additional weight combined with birth related hormones can
result in moderate to severe back pain in pregnant women. The
best treatment for pregnancy-related back pain is exercise.

Osteoarthritis – One of the most well documented, but least
understood causes of back pain is degenerative arthritis of the
spine. While most frequently seen in elderly patients,
Osteoarthritis can affect younger patients as well. Arthritis
causes the disintegration of cartilage, the cushioning material
that supports spinal vertebrae. While there is no cure for
Osteoarthritis, patients can receive treatments for pain
management.

Muscle Strain – Arguably one of the most common causes, muscle
strain can be the result of stress, bad posture, repetitive
activities or applying too much force to the back muscles.
Muscle strain injuries are typically treated with a combination
of exercise and rest.

Herniated Disc – One of the most painful causes of back pain is
a herniated disc. When spinal cartilage is pushed up against the
sensitive nerves in your back, the result is a herniated or
bulging disc. If the affected never is the Sciatic nerve that
runs down your spinal column, pain can extend down into your
legs and feet. Treatment for back pain stemming from spinal
vertebrae issues can include medication, physical therapy, and
occasionally, surgery.


About The Author: P. Basauri is an expert author who writes for
http://www.back-pain-relief-bed.com