Undoubtedly one of mankind’s commonest and most nagging complaints, back pain takes up more visits to the hospital in the US and in other parts of the world than any other orthopedic issues. Studies reveal staggering statistics � nine out of ten American adults suffer back pain at some point of their lives or other.


Back pain may be of the chronic or the acute type; it might be a constant problem or might appear and disappear intermittently. The pain may be strong and crippling or might be of the dull variety, though some people are even known to report burning or piercing sensations.


The causes of back pain are many. The commonest cause is lumbar muscle sprain. This kind of back pain is usually impermanent and easy to treat. Back pain can get more serious of the patient has a herniated disc, spinal stenosis or lumbar spine arthritis. Still major causes of back pain stem from a condition known as spondylolisthesis or even osteoporosis.


Most adults attacked by a bout of back pain find it difficult to assess the severity of the pain and find it hard to decide when or if they need to visit the doctor. Usually it is a good idea to visit a specialist if the back pain persists for more than a few days or if it severe enough to keep you awake at night. Other symptoms that need attention are chills, fever, sweats or other indications of infection, trouble controlling bladder and bowel movements or any other unusual symptoms that may come to your notice.


Treatment for back pain will depend mostly on the cause of the pain and the underlying condition causing it, but also in some cases on the age and medical history of the patient. Treatments for back pain will range from the basic non-surgical treatment such as heat or ice applications, rest, exercise and medications; or they may go on to the more radical spine surgery. Other alternative treatments for back pain have also been known to be effective, but should be taken with the doctor’s approval and guidance.


Like everything else, preventing back pain is a far better thing to do than trying to treat it after it has set in. In matters of the spine, nothing succeeds in warding off pain than a good posture. Be careful while lifting heavy goods, reduce and avoid twisting motions and a piece of advice that will be surprising to many: drink plenty of water. This is because intake of sufficient water keeps the intervertebral discs healthy, maintaining them as the shock absorbers. Furthermore, exercise and activity make for healthy spines and keep back pain at bay. In addition, keep a healthy body weight, keep a sensible sleeping posture and make sure you warm up before you exercise.


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