A complex structure of bones, disks, muscles, tendons and ligaments build up human back. Back pain may result from problems in any of these components. Back pain may be caused by strain from lifting something improperly or lifting something too heavy. A muscle spasm arising out of abrupt or awkward movement may also cause pain in the back.

Back pain may also result from structural problems of the components. The disks that cushion vertebras of our spine may get ruptured or displaced causing severe back pain. In some cases the pain is intense and travels through back and buttock towards back of leg when bulging disks put more pressure on nerves. This type of back pain is referred as Sciatica. Abnormal curvature of spine may also cause back pain. This may happen from sleep disorders, improper mattress or conditions like scoliosis when spine curves to a side. Everyday activities or poor postures can also cause acute back pain. Driving in a hunched position for prolonged hours, standing or bending down for long period and carrying heavy things improperly may cause back pain.

In large number of cases back pain may get resolved with home treatment, over the counter (OTC) painkiller drugs and rest. Acute back pain comes in suddenly and persists for about three months. Chronic back pain develops over a longer period and associated with long term problems. When home treatments and painkillers fail to provide relieve doctors may recommend physical therapy or surgery for extreme back pain cases. Complementary treatments like acupuncture, chiropractic practices and osteopathy have proved highly effective for treatment of all types of back pain.

Back pain can be prevented by taking care of the risk factors that are main causes of the pain. It is desirable to strengthen back muscles and maintain flexibility of the spine with regular exercises. Focus should be on low impact aerobic activities with guidance from an expert. Maintaining an optimum body weight helps in managing back pain. A bulging belly puts on extra strain on the spine, resulting in sudden injury or dislocation of disks.

Maintaining proper posture is crucial for managing back pain. While standing, the back should be straight and body weight should be evenly balanced between two feet. The legs should be straight and make sure to wear the right type of shoes. While sitting, make sure to have a good back rest, arm support and keep your feet flat on the floor.

A majority of back pain happen from the injury inflicted while lifting heavy things suddenly. This can be avoided by distributing the impact of pull among legs and back muscles. Put one of your legs forward and bend your knees while lifting heavy things. Keep the weight as close to your body as possible. Avoid stooping or squatting suddenly. Tighten your stomach muscle and pull the heavy thing slowly. Make sure not to twist your muscles while lifting. Pushing a heavy object puts less strain on back than pulling it.

Most general practitioners diagnose back pain by interviewing or carrying out physical examination. When doctors suspect injuries they may order tests like X-ray, MRI, CT or bone scan to ascertain extent of injury.

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