Back pain
Back Pain
Back pain (/bæk peɪn/) is a common condition that affects people of all ages. It can range from a dull, constant ache to a sudden, sharp sensation that leaves the person incapacitated.
Etymology
The term "back pain" is derived from the Old English baec (back) and paine (suffering or disease).
Definition
Back pain is a general term that refers to any type of discomfort or pain in the back, typically in the area between the neck and the hips. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including injury, disease, or stress on the back muscles.
Causes
Back pain can be caused by a variety of factors, including:
- Muscle strain: This is the most common cause of back pain. It can occur as a result of heavy lifting, a sudden movement, or poor posture.
- Disc injury: The discs in the back can become injured, leading to pain. This can occur as a result of a fall, a car accident, or other trauma.
- Spinal stenosis: This is a condition in which the spinal canal narrows, putting pressure on the spinal cord and nerves.
- Arthritis: This is a group of diseases that cause inflammation of the joints, which can lead to back pain.
- Osteoporosis: This is a condition that weakens the bones, making them more likely to break. It can lead to compression fractures in the spine, which can cause back pain.
Treatment
Treatment for back pain depends on the cause and severity of the pain. It can include:
- Pain medication: Over-the-counter or prescription medications can be used to relieve pain.
- Physical therapy: This can help to strengthen the back muscles and improve posture, which can help to prevent future episodes of back pain.
- Surgery: In some cases, surgery may be necessary to treat the underlying cause of the back pain.
Related Terms
- Sciatica: This is a condition in which pain radiates along the path of the sciatic nerve, which branches from your lower back through your hips and buttocks and down each leg.
- Scoliosis: This is a sideways curvature of the spine that occurs most often during the growth spurt just before puberty.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Back pain
- Wikipedia's article - Back pain
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