Back pain between fact and fiction

Back pain is a very common problem that can affect people of all ages. It can range from a dull ache to a sharp, stabbing pain. Back pain can be caused by a variety of factors, including:Muscle strains or sprainsDisc problems, such as herniated discsArthritisOsteoporosisPoor postureHeavy liftingObesityPregnancyMost back pain is acute, meaning it lasts for a short period of time. However, some back pain can be chronic, meaning it lasts for 12 weeks or more.There are a number of things you can do to help prevent back pain, such as:Maintaining good postureExercising regularlyMaintaining a healthy weightLifting objects properlyUsing good ergonomics at workIf you do experience back pain, there are a number of things you can do to relieve the pain, such as:Applying heat or iceTaking over-the-counter pain medicationGetting massage therapyDoing stretching exercisesIf your back pain is severe or does not improve with home treatment, it is important to see a doctor to determine the underlying cause and get appropriate treatment.How to ease back pain yourselfBack pain often improves on its own within a few weeks. There are things you can do to help speed up your recovery.Dostay active and try to continue with your daily activitiestake anti-inflammatory medicine like ibuprofen – paracetamol on its own is not recommended for back pain but it may be used with another painkilleruse an ice pack (or bag of frozen peas) wrapped in a tea towel to reduce pain and swellinguse a heat pack (or hot water bottle) wrapped in a tea towel to relieve joint stiffness or muscle spasmstry doing some exercises and stretches for back painDon’tdo not stay in bed for long periods of time