Your spine, often known as your backbone, runs from the base of your brain to your buttocks. It is also referred to as the spinal column and is made up of over 30 different vertebrae piled on top of one another. A flexible disc exists between each pair of vertebrae. Ligaments hold the vertebrae and discs together. The spinal cord and the nerves that connect it to the rest of the body are located in a space that passes through the middle of the spinal column. The majority of people occasionally have modest back discomfort, though the exact cause might be challenging to determine. Back pain is typically a symptom that you’ve overextended or twisted your back into an unnatural posture, which can harm one or more joints, ligaments, or discs. However, severe pain may be brought on by pressure on nerves caused by the misalignment of the bones in the back and needs to be treated by a doctor.
CAUTION!
EXTENSIVE BACK PAIN
Regardless of the sort of back pain you are experiencing, you should see a doctor if it persists for more than 12 hours, is accompanied by loss of bowel or bladder control, or is accompanied by weakness, numbness, or tingling in an arm or leg.
BACK PAIN SELF-HELP
Try the following self-help techniques if you have back pain that is brought on by a slight strain or that has no apparent cause:
- Use acetylsalicylic acid or acetaminophen dose as prescribed.
- For as long as the discomfort lasts, lie on your back (or in whatever position is most comfortable) on a hard mattress, only getting up when necessary.
- Try massaging your back with a hot water bottle to aid with the pain.
Consult your doctor if your pain worsens or does not go away in 24 hours. Your doctor may suggest that you see a licensed osteopathic physician.
AVOIDING BACKACHE
To lessen the tension on your back and aid in the prevention of backaches, there are various doable alternatives. A broad indicator of whether or not you are stressing your back is whether you feel at ease in any movements or positions. You can take the precautions listed below.
- Sitting properly – Try to maintain a straight back and prevent slouching when you are sitting for an extended period of time. Select a chair with a sturdy, straight back that can support your entire spine. Your knees should be at an angle of 90 degrees and you should be able to rest your feet flat on the floor.
- Posture – Your head, trunk, and legs should all be in line for the best posture to prevent undue strain on your back.
- Sleeping – Put a board under your current mattress or choose a firm mattress to sleep on. As a headrest, place a single, flat cushion pillow. By taking these steps, you can support your back and keep your spine from bending unhealthily.
- Lifting – Get as near as you can to the object you are lifting. So that your leg muscles, not your back muscles, which are weaker, bear the load, keep your back straight and bend your knees.