Back Pain

At least 80 percent of all Americans suffer an occasional backache, and for 15 percent, the problem is chronic. The majority of backaches originate in the lumbar spine, between the waist and tailbone; the cervical spine (neck) is the second most common source of pain. Depending upon the cause, the pain may be constant, dull, and centered in one area; or it may be acute or stabbing, and spread from the lower back to the buttocks and legs or from the neck to the jaw and arms. Most back pain is due to muscle strains and spasms, often the result of improper lifting or abrupt twisting. Poor posture, obesity, and pregnancy are common contributing factors, as is a sedentary lifestyle. A slipped or ruptured disk, the spongy cushion that lies between each pair of vertebrae, can also cause back pain, especially if the disk pinches a nerve in the neck or lower back. 50 can a structural abnormality, such as a curved spine . You should see a doctor if back pain persists for more than two weeks despite rest, or if it recurs. Don't delay if the pain is accompanied by other symptoms, such as numbness in the arms or legs, or loss of bowel or bladder control.

Diagnostic Studies and Procedures

After examining your back and testing nerve reflexes, the doctor will probably order X-rays of the back. If a ruptured disk is suspected, imaging studies such as computed tomography (CT) scans or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can pinpoint the problem. Other tests may include bone density studies and nerve and muscle evaluations.

Medical Treatments

Most simple backaches can be managed with aspirin (or stronger nonsteroidal anti inflammatory drugs) and rest. If this conservative course proves inadequate, a muscle relaxant and perhaps a cortisone injection may be tried. Sometimes immobilizing the back with a brace, neck collar, or traction is needed, especially if the problem stems from a back injury. Persistent back pain caused by a ruptured disk may require surgery to remove the disk. Back pain due to a structural abnormality or disease requires treatment of the underlying condition.

Alternative Therapies

Back pain is one area in which alternative therapies are widely used and often highly effective. Included are:

Acupuncture or Acupressure

These techniques, the cornerstones of traditional Chinese medicine, are widely used to overcome chronic back pain. A practitioner of the Alexander technique analyzes poor posture habits (left), then teaches how to achieve proper alignment . Treatments involve inserting needles into or pressing on the meridians (body points) related to back pain. Some patients report relief after the first treatment; more commonly, however, a series of six or more sessions is needed to produce results.