Back pain is a very common issue with lot of people irrespective of their age, gender, physique or working patterns. To understand it better - here’s a clear and structured guide on Back Pain: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment, Facts & Myths 👇
🔹 Causes of Back Pain
Back pain is one of the most common health issues worldwide. Some common causes include:
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Muscle or ligament strain – due to lifting heavy objects, sudden awkward movements, or poor posture.
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Herniated or slipped disc – when a disc presses on a nerve.
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Arthritis – osteoarthritis can affect the lower back and cause spinal narrowing (spinal stenosis).
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Osteoporosis – weak, brittle bones leading to fractures.
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Poor posture & sedentary lifestyle – prolonged sitting, especially without support.
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Injuries/accidents – sports injuries or falls.
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Other medical conditions – kidney stones, infections, endometriosis (in women), etc.
🔹 Symptoms of Back Pain
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Dull aching pain or sharp stabbing pain in the back.
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Pain that worsens with bending, lifting, standing, or walking.
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Muscle stiffness or spasms.
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Radiating pain (down the leg – sciatica).
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Limited range of motion.
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Numbness or tingling in the legs or feet (in severe cases).
👉 Seek immediate medical help if back pain is accompanied by loss of bladder/bowel control, unexplained weight loss, or severe weakness in the legs.
🔹 Treatment Options
Treatment depends on the cause and severity:
Self-care/Home remedies
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Rest (but not prolonged bed rest).
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Heat or cold packs.
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Gentle stretching & strengthening exercises.
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Correct posture and ergonomic chairs.
Medical treatments
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Pain relievers & anti-inflammatory medications.
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Physiotherapy and rehabilitation exercises.
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Muscle relaxants or corticosteroid injections (in severe cases).
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Surgery (rare, only for serious conditions like herniated discs or spinal stenosis).
Lifestyle adjustments
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Regular low-impact exercise (walking, swimming, yoga).
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Healthy weight management.
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Proper sleep posture (firm mattress).
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Avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol.
🔹 Quick Facts
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Around 80% of people experience back pain at some point in their life.
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Lower back pain is the leading cause of disability worldwide.
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Most cases are not due to serious diseases and improve with simple measures.
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Sitting for long hours without movement is a major modern contributor to back pain.
🔹 Myths vs. Facts
❌ Myth: Bed rest is the best cure for back pain.
✅ Fact: Prolonged rest can worsen stiffness; light movement helps recovery.
❌ Myth: Only old people suffer from back pain.
✅ Fact: Back pain affects all ages, especially office workers and students with poor posture.
❌ Myth: Heavy lifting is always harmful.
✅ Fact: Proper lifting techniques & core strength can prevent injury.
❌ Myth: Surgery is the only solution for severe back pain.
✅ Fact: Less than 5% of patients need surgery. Most improve with conservative treatments.
❌ Myth: Back pain always means a slipped disc.
✅ Fact: Most back pain is muscular, not due to disc problems.
Always consult a doctor before taking any medication or undergoing any sort of treatment. NEVER do anything by researching on internet or from social media posts.
