Physiology of a Back Ache
A backache is something everyone will experience in his or her life. The pain can be so severe nothing seems to relieve it. Luckily, most backaches are minor and have no residual effects. However, they can be a warning sign of something more sinister. Generally, a backache with no other symptoms is a normal part of living. Knowing a few things about what to look for will help differentiate between a normal pain and something more serious.
• Fever- A sign of infection. Seek medical attention.
• Burning during urination -Burning during urination or inability to urinate can be a sign of infection or mass. Seek medical attention.
• Nausea or vomiting- Seek medical attention.
• Recurring- nocturnal back pain- Seek medical attention.
• Backache that does not go away- If the pain persist longer than two or three days seek medical attention.
• Trauma- Seek medical attention.
If the pain does not present with the above symptoms, chances are good it is a common backache. One of many things can cause a common a backache. Soft tissue spasms, such as muscle, tendons, and ligaments will cause pain if overworked. Nerve impingement from bony structures will inflame nerves causing pain. Left to itself the common backache will subside in a few days. However, some things will help a common backache subside quicker. Contrary to popular belief, bed rest does not relieve a backache sooner. Too much bed rest could actually aggravate the pain and make it last longer.
Muscle strain is the most common cause. Repetitive or strenuous activity can cause back pain. As will weak abdominal muscles, if a “Potbelly” is present, reduction of belly fat will be beneficial. Strengthening stomach muscles leads to less strain on the lower back. Performing stomach exercises, such as setups and crunches, strengthens the muscles and supports the back. Stomach exercises are more a preventive rather than a curative measure. However, the lack of pain will be noticeable after a few weeks.
Inactivity precipitates back pain. Lying in bed longer than normal or leading a sedentary life is often a reason for low back pain. The remedy for inactivity is exercise.
If someone is experiencing a backache, he will be the last to say it is common. Unless accompanied by other symptoms, there is a good chance its normal. With a little preventive exercise, and paying attention to what the body is saying, suffering will be minimal.
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