Back Pain - What Is It?

Back pain is a broad term, almost as broad as the expanse of the body it covers. In general, there are four divisions pain may be ascribed to: cervical or neck; thoracic or upper back pain; lumbar or lower back pain; and pelvic or tailbone pain.

Back pain typically originates from the muscles, the nerves, bones, joints and other spinal structures and is so typical that nine out of ten adults will probably experience some sort of back point in their life; many experiencing it yearly.

The most common type of back pain is lumbar or lower back pain; so common, in fact, that it is among the top five reasons behind most physician visits. This is because more often that not, it is the lower portion of the back that is under the most pressure whether sitting or lifting, and can be easily damaged. Bending from the knees helps to alleviate some of that pressure.

Back pain is usually defined as acute - pain lasting for only a short time; or as chronic back pain - either a recurring pain or pain that endures for weeks and months on end.


Perhaps the most common cause for back pain is strain - the result of slight tearing of back muscles or ligaments. This may be the result of a sudden or awkward move or more likely, the result of lifting a heavy object. Other common causes are likely to include back spasms, muscle or joint pain and tension in the back.

What Are Common Back Pain Symptoms?

Back pain symptoms are varied and in some instances may refer to generalized locations as opposed to actual back pain. For example, the radial pains of kidney stones can be centralized in the lower back. Neural pain is actually nerve pain, but may show up in the back.

Certain people may be at higher risk for back pain and its symptoms, often environmentally based. Those who perform heavy labour or sit or stand for long periods of time may be at higher risk. Those how are out of shape may also be more likely to suffer from back pain with more frequency as the back may have to accommodate for lessened use of other muscles in the body such as the abdomen.

Lower back pain is typically the most common back pain symptom however, it is not, by far, the only one. Other symptoms may include short term pain, chronic pain, radiating pain such as the sciatica, numbess or weakening, and stiffness or tightening of the back.

Beyond acute or chronic, cack pain symptoms are typically either neuropathic or nerve pain such as a pinched nerve, often felt as a burning or stabbing pain; or nociceptive pain caused by an injury or disease beyond the scope of the nervous symptom such as arthritic pain.

What Are Back Pain Treatments?

There are myriad common and standard back pain treatments that can include hot and cold therapy; topical rubs; medications; exercise; acupuncture; chiropractice treatments; inversion tables; traction; massage therapy; laser therapy; diet; hydroptherapy; lifestyle modifications; and invasive procedures.

Cold therapy can aid in reducing inflammation and in distracting from the back pain; heat helps to increase blood flow and circulation to the back aiding in relaxing the muscles. Exercise, in moderation, can help the back muscles strengthen but should be done in consultation with a physician or rehabilitation therapist. Regimens may consist of stretching exercises or strengthening exercises or both in combination.

Medications include over the counter remedies or, under a physician's guidance, muscle relaxants in the case of sever acute back pain. In instances where medication is a remedy requirement, it is important to stay adequately hydrated.

Back pain, while common can be both deceptive and serious and you should always consult your doctor before starting any treatment regimen.

Back Pain Home Remedies

Home remedies for back pain can be as simple as modifying sitting and sleeping positions. Standing or sitting straight, are not merely childhood admonishments, but actually involve more of the body's muscles aiding in everyday movement.

Maintaining age appropriate exercise and lifestyles can help as well. Age appropriate is the key; everything in moderation.

A hot water bottle or an ice tray are common household items that can aid in at home remedial therapies; cold for inflammation, hot for circulation.

From food, red peppers may work as a rub, containing capsaican, red pepper can help as a topical pain reliever. Spot test before applying to ensure no allergies. Ginger has anti-inflammatory properties and accordingly, ginger tea may help relieve back pain. Tumeric (a half teaspoon) with a half cup of warm milk may also help with aches and pains.

A hot epsom salt bath soak can help relax muscles.

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