Back pain is one of the most common health problems in the United States. In fact, according to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, approximately 80% of people will experience back pain at some point in their lives. There are many different causes of back pain, and it can affect people of all ages. If you are experiencing back pain, it is vital to see a Shrewsbury back pain specialist to determine the cause and to receive treatment. Some common treatments for back pain include medication, physical therapy, and surgery. In this article, we look at the different causes of back pain.
1. Poor Posture
One of the most common causes of back pain is poor posture. When you spend long periods sitting or standing in the same position, your muscles can get tired and start to ache. This can lead to pain in the lower back, neck, and shoulders. To prevent back pain from poor posture, be sure to take breaks often and move around regularly. You should also make sure that your workstation is set up correctly to sit and stand in a neutral position.
2. Sitting Too Much
Another common cause of back pain is sitting too much. Your hips and back muscles become weak and tight when you sit all day. This can lead to pain in the lower back and hips. To prevent this, be sure to get up and move around regularly. You should also try to break up long periods of sitting with short breaks to move around.
3. Spinal Stenosis
Spinal stenosis is a condition that occurs when the spaces in the spinal cord become narrower. This can cause pain, weakness, and numbness in the arms and legs. Spinal stenosis is most common in older adults, and you can treat it with medication, physical therapy, or surgery.
4. Herniated Disk
A herniated disk is when the disk between the vertebrae becomes damaged. This can cause pain, numbness, and tingling in the arms or legs. Herniated disks are most common in people aged 30 to 50 years old. They can be treated with medication, physical therapy, or surgery.
5. Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis is a condition that occurs when the cartilage in the joints wears down. This can cause pain, stiffness, and swelling in the joints. Osteoarthritis is most common in people aged 65 years or older. You can treat it with medication, physical therapy, or surgery.
6. Scoliosis
Scoliosis is a condition that causes the spine to curve sideways. This can cause pain and discomfort, leading to problems with breathing and digestion. Scoliosis is most common in children and adolescents, and you can treat it with physical therapy or surgery.
7. Kyphosis
Kyphosis is a condition that causes the spine to curve forward. This can cause pain and discomfort, leading to problems with breathing and digestion. Kyphosis is most common in adults aged 50 years or older. You can treat it with physical therapy or surgery.
In summary, there are many different causes of back pain. If you are experiencing back pain, it is important to see a doctor to determine the cause and to receive treatment. Some common treatments for back pain include medication, physical therapy, and surgery.
