Chiropractor In Apache Junction Az | Common Causes Of Back Pain

Back pain is one of the most common ailments in adults. Most people will suffer from some form of back pain at some point in their lives. Often the pain is just nagging, causing some discomfort that can be relieved by a bit of rest and an over-the-counter pain reliever. Other forms of back pain can be far more acute, limiting the patient's range of motion. When pain lingers for longer than three months it is considered chronic.

What causes back pain? -

The pain can be the result of injury caused by many things including:

oImproper lifting or lifting something far too heavy

oSports injury

oAutomobile collision

oObesity

oStress

oPoor mattress and/or sleeping position

oFalls, fractures and muscle sprains

oOther causes include certain conditions such as pregnancy, scoliosis, arthritis and kidney stones

Problems such as these with the mechanics of the spine can also be painful:


oSpinal disc degeneration
Caused by basic wear and tear on the spine from daily activity, degenerative disc disease is quite common. The pain often occurs from an over twisting or wrenching strain.

oMuscle spasms result from a pulled muscle, which can lead to inflammation that causes pain and limited range of motion.

oTense muscles can be the result of stress and suppressed emotional issues, but it can also be the result of a minor injury and often resolves itself without the need for treatment.




oRuptured (herniated) discs
Discs act as a cushion for the spine allowing it to move fluidly. Discs which get damaged during an injury can slip, rupture or bulge causing pain when they come in contact with the nerve endings or the bones of the spine.

"Spinal Stenosis is narrowing of either the lower spine or upper back, which puts pressure on your spinal cord and nerves causing cramping, pain and even numbness in the legs, neck and shoulders. It is often caused by osteoarthritis.

"Arthritis
The inflammation caused by arthritis can irritate the muscles and ligaments around your back, neck and shoulders.

"Osteoporosis causes the bones to become thin and porous, leaving them vulnerable to breakage. It is most common in post-menopausal women, and when it progresses to the point of broken bones it can cause pain and deformity.

"Spondylolisthesis occurs when one vertebra slips relative to another causing pain. Most often occurring in the lumbar area and it can be caused by strenuous physical activities such as heavy weight lifting or football.

What are the signs that I need to seek treatment for my back pain? -

If your back pain continues for several days, if it keeps you awake at night and you begin to see changes in your bowels or bladder habits, if you come down with a fever or other signs of an infection these are all signs that you should have someone examine you and evaluate the nature of your back pain. Simple muscle strains usually resolve themselves in a few days, but if the pain persists with no relief you should have it evaluated by a professional.