Do you have back pain? You’re not alone. It’s the most common cause of disability in the U.S., affecting roughly 80% of adults at some point during their lives. This is also the case in Houston, Texas. But there are many ways to get relief, so don’t give up hope. Schedule an appointment with a specialist for back pain in Houston, TX, for assistance. Here are the leading causes and treatments for back pain.
What Causes Back Pain?
Most back pain is either caused by a sprain or strain or by an injury to the discs or bones of your spinal column. There are also many other causes of back pain, so you need to see your doctor if you have persistent symptoms that aren’t easily explained. Here are some common causes of back pain:
Muscle Strains
The back is a complex structure, and many can go wrong with it. One of the most common causes of lower back pain is a strain on one or more of your muscles, typically due to lifting something too heavy, poor posture, overuse, or simply twisting awkwardly while playing sports or performing an everyday task.
Herniated Discs
A herniated disc happens when the soft, gel-like center of an intervertebral disc pushes through the tough outer layer, usually due to stress or injury. While many people can successfully manage their symptoms with medication and physical therapy, some need surgery to repair the tear in their discs.
Osteoarthritis
Arthritis is a common cause of chronic (long-term) back pain. It occurs when the cartilage that cushions your spinal joints wears down, causing pain and stiffness. Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis, and it often occurs as a result of aging or weight gain.
Treatments for Back Pain
There are many different treatments for back pain, but the best approach depends on the cause. Here are some of the most common treatments:
Medication
If your back pain is mild and not caused by a herniated disc, you may be able to treat it with over-the-counter (OTC) medications like ibuprofen or acetaminophen. You should avoid taking OTC painkillers if you have liver or kidney damage, so ask your doctor about the safest option for you.
Physical Therapy
Physical therapy is a standard treatment for back pain, and it often helps improve mobility and reduce inflammation. Your therapist may use various techniques, including massage, heat therapy, and exercises designed to stretch and strengthen your muscles.
Surgery
If your back pain is caused by a herniated disc or another severe injury, surgery may be necessary. Your doctor will recommend the best treatment option for you based on your diagnosis and health history.
Injections
If other treatments haven’t worked, your doctor may recommend an injection of corticosteroids or another medication directly into the affected area. This can help to reduce inflammation and pain in the short term.
Lifestyle Changes
You can do several things to help manage your back pain at home, including practicing good posture, avoiding heavy lifting, and getting regular exercise.
If you’ve been struggling to find relief from back pain, it may be because your treatment hasn’t matched the cause. There are many different ways people experience back pain, and there is no “one-size fits all” solution. You need to seek guidance from a specialist as they’ll make the correct diagnosis and treatment.