Chronic back pain is one of the most common health issues affecting millions of people worldwide. According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), nearly 8 out of 10 people will experience back pain at some point in their lives, and for many, it becomes a chronic condition. Unlike acute pain, which lasts a few days or weeks, chronic back pain persists for 12 weeks or longer, even after an initial injury or underlying cause has been treated.
Chronic back pain refers to persistent pain in the lower, middle, or upper back that continues for three months or longer. It may vary in intensity and can interfere with sleep, mobility, and daily tasks. Understanding the causes of chronic back pain is the first step to managing and treating it effectively.
Repeated lifting of heavy objects or a sudden awkward movement can strain back muscles and spinal ligaments. If you’re in poor physical condition, constant strain can cause painful muscle spasms and lead to long-term pain.
Spinal discs act as cushions between the vertebrae. When a disc bulges or ruptures, it can press on a nerve and cause chronic back pain. This condition is often age-related.
Osteoarthritis can affect the lower back. In some cases, arthritis in the spine can lead to a narrowing of the space around the spinal cord, called spinal stenosis.
Bones become porous and brittle, leading to compression fractures in the spine — a serious cause of chronic back pain.
Sitting for long periods, especially with poor posture, contributes to chronic back pain.
Car accidents, falls, or sports injuries may damage the spine or soft tissues, causing long-term chronic back pain.
Conditions like scoliosis can cause spinal misalignment and lead to chronic pain.
Understanding the risk factors can help prevent the development of chronic back pain:
- Age: Risk increases with age.
- Lack of exercise: Weak back and abdominal muscles.
- Excess weight: Adds stress to the back.
- Diseases: Certain types of arthritis and cancer.
- Improper lifting: Using your back instead of your legs.
- Smoking: Reduces blood flow to the spine.
While the main symptom is persistent pain, other symptoms may include:
- Stiffness in the lower back
- Limited range of motion
- Radiating pain to legs (sciatica)
- Numbness or tingling
- Muscle weakness
To determine the underlying causes of chronic back pain, healthcare providers may recommend:
- Physical examination
- X-rays or CT scans
- MRI scans
- Bone density tests
- Nerve studies (EMG)
OTC pain relievers like ibuprofen and acetaminophen can help manage pain. Muscle relaxants or antidepressants may also be prescribed.
A physical therapist can teach exercises to stretch and strengthen the back and improve mobility.
Losing weight, improving posture, and staying active are important. Avoiding prolonged sitting is key.
Corticosteroid injections or nerve blocks may help reduce inflammation and relieve pain.
If conservative treatment fails, surgical options like spinal fusion or discectomy may be necessary.
Preventive strategies include:
- Staying active and maintaining a healthy weight
- Practicing good posture
- Lifting with your legs, not your back
- Quitting smoking
- Strengthening core muscles
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See a doctor if your chronic back pain:
- Doesn’t improve with rest or medication
- Causes numbness or tingling
- Is associated with fever or weight loss
- Interferes with daily life
National Institutes of Health (NIH), Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), MedlinePlus
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