Backache is second only to headache as the most common neurological disorder causative for missed work. Impossible to ignore, at least fifty billion dollars annually is spent to find the cause that allows management and alleviation of the unrelenting agony of chronic back pain.
Physical prowess helps, but does not insure a life without backaches. Ancient skeletal remains offer scientific proof that the caveman experienced degenerative spinal disorders. Modern man’s sedentary lives contribute to obesity that stresses the body’s framework, yet the demanding physicality of our ancestor’s daily lives did not insure the absence of spinal ailments.
The musculoskeletal system is designed to function through the collaborative network of bones and ligaments. The delicate spinal cord provides movement and sensation that is protected within the spinal column at the center of the skeleton. The health of the supportive muscles and ligaments connected to the spine is paramount in neurological function. Without strong yet flexible support, the back is extremely vulnerable to a wide range of minor to major injury.
Acute back injuries are predominantly caused by muscle strain, most notably, lumbar-sacral sprains, often accompanied with sciatica (severe, radiating discomfort down into the leg). Exertion, lifting, blows and falls contribute to muscular strains. Risk for acute lumbar injuries increases with poor physical conditioning due to sedentary occupations, lack of regular exercise participation, obesity, incorrect posture, pregnancy or high heels. Although these risks can be managed with healthier choices, musculoskeletal issues need definitive diagnosis for management that averts chronic problems.
Osteoporosis is the loss of normal bone density, mass and strength. As bones thin, the risk of fracture and catastrophic disability increases. Aging, lack of vitamin D and calcium, low estrogen with menopause, smoking and cortisone drugs are causative for osteoporosis. Prevention through education related to bone density and sprain injuries offers protection in avoiding serious consequences.
Some definitive factors for backache are present at birth, acquired through our DNA, age or with lifestyle choices. The extensive variance of causes explains the reason 80% of the populace suffers from spinal pain. Accurate diagnostic determination is crucial in the role of management through treatment. Depending on diagnosis, proper management may include prescribed medications, programs for appropriate exercise and rest, therapies, lifestyle changes and rarely, surgery.
Although, the acquisition of many painful spinal disorders are beyond our control, medicine today provides options that allow sufferers an improved prognosis and better management of their discomfort. Often, in acute exacerbation’s, patients have control through optimizing their health with programs for weight management, smoking cessation, exercise and stress resolution. Keeping abreast of options for maintaining bone health, and the innovative standards of treatment for back ailments is winning through education.
Innovative health care approaches are examining and expanding on the management of chronic back pain to bring improved quality of life to patients today. Medical science is conducting research that strives to bring patients the latest, state-of-the-art in diagnostic tools, medications, and effective therapies with trials that examine comparisons in standard western medical care and chiropractic/acupuncture practices.