Signs of Back Pain That You Should Not Ignore

Back pain is something that most people experience at some point in life. It is not a serious problem in most cases and can go away on its own. However, there are some signs of back pain that you should not ignore. When ignored, back pain Newtown can lead to more serious problems, such as nerve damage, disc problems, and even arthritis.

Before you know the warning signs, you need to understand the causes of back pain:

• Muscle or ligament strain: The muscles and ligaments in your back support your spine. If you overuse or injure these muscles and ligaments, you can experience back pain.
• Ruptured or bulging discs: The discs act as cushions between the vertebrae in your spine. A rupture or bulge in a disc can cause back pain.
• Arthritis: This is a condition that causes inflammation in the joints. It can also affect the spine, causing pain.
• Skeletal irregularities: If your spine has any abnormal curves, this can lead to back pain.

There are multiple warning signs not to ignore, including:

Severe pain that does not go away with over-the-counter medication

You should see a doctor when you have severe pain that does not go away with over-the-counter medication, such as ibuprofen. It could indicate a more serious problem, such as a bulging disk.

Pain that gets worse when you move

If your back pain worsens when you move, it could indicate a muscle strain. However, if the pain does not improve with rest, it could mean a more serious problem, such as a pinched nerve.

 Numbness or tingling in your legs

If you experience numbness or tingling in your legs, it could indicate a pinched nerve. Additionally, if the pain radiates from your back to your legs, it could be an indication of a herniated disk. You do not need to ignore these signs, especially severe pain.

Difficulty standing or walking

If you have difficulty standing or walking, it could indicate a serious problem, such as arthritis. A medical doctor can help you determine the cause of your pain and provide treatment options.

Now that you know the warning signs to watch out for, here are treatment options you should know too.

• Rest: This may seem obvious, but resting your body when experiencing back pain is important. Avoid activities that strain your back, such as lifting heavy objects or exercising.
• Ice and heat therapy: Applying ice to the affected area can help reduce inflammation and pain. Heat therapy can also help relax the muscles in your back.
• Physical therapy: A physical therapist can help you strengthen the muscles in your back and improve your flexibility. This can help minimize the risk of future injuries.
• Surgery: In some cases, surgery may be necessary to treat back pain. However, this is usually only recommended for severe cases that have not responded to other treatment options.

If the pain is severe or does not go away with over-the-counter medication, you should see your doctor at Performance Pain and Sports Medicine. There are treatment options available that can help relieve your pain and prevent future injuries.