5 Possible Causes and Treatment of Neck and Back Pain

1. 5 Possible Causes and Treatment of Neck and Back Pain Most of us have suffered from neck and back pain at some point in our life. Usually, acute neck pain and back pain is abrupt and tends to subside within days or weeks. However, if the pain is long-term or chronic, you may need surgical treatment. Neck and back pain can stem from various issues. The intensity of the pain ranges from mild, dull, to throbbing or searing, depending on the cause. Let us check the five most common possible causes of neck and back pain. #1. Sprain or strain In most cases, neck and back pain is caused by strains or sprains. Strain implies tearing a muscle or tendon, while the latter implies tearing the ligament. The pain might range from mild to severe depending on the cause of stress, which can be trauma, sports injury, or overuse of the muscles and joints. #2. Bad posture Extended periods of poor posture usually result in back and neck pain. You can alleviate this pain by improving your posture and strengthening your core and buttocks with the help of specific exercises like planks, bridges, and back extensions. #3. Ruptured or bulging disc Intervertebral discs are packed between your spine bones and act as shock absorbers. Several factors like trauma, obesity, aging, or continuous stress can cause these discs to break down, leading to bulging or slipped discs, which can cause severe pain. #4. Osteoarthritis

2. Wear and tear of cartilages between the spinal bones may lead to spine osteoarthritis, which causes dull or throbbing pain that worsens with movement. #5. Spondylolysis Stress fracture of bone (or bones) of the spine is usually referred to as spondylolysis. It is often caused by age-related spine weakness, spinal injury, or sports causing repeated stress on the lower back. Spondylolysis may result in pain, stiffness, or even pinching of the nerve. Both neck and back pain can be quite discomforting. So, how do you relieve it? Let us see the best treatment options for reducing your neck and back pain. Take adequate rest  If you are hurting your back or neck, ease up the pressure on your neck or back. Usually, the pain itself will prevent you from making any drastic movements. Contrary to popular opinion, it is now believed that restricting your activity for a few days and taking apt over- the-counter pain-relieving medications may help your muscles relax and unwind. However, consult your physician before taking medications to check if they are suitable for you. Back Pain Cream  Back pain creams comprising drugs like diclofenac can provide you instant relief from pain. You just have to apply this cream to the affected area with your fingers and massage gently for the best instant relief. Back pain cream is easily absorbed and provides you with a warm and soothing sensation that helps relieve your pain and inflammation. Over the counter medications  Over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen, aspirin, or diclofenac, also known as NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), can effectively help relieve pain and inflammation. However, it is better to use it for the short term, as prolonged use can lead to gastrointestinal issues. Massage  A gentle massage by a willing companion may offer you some relief by stretching ligaments or muscles. Exercise  After adequate rest, once your pain eases, you must move your joints and muscles with simple exercises, preferably under the supervision of a back specialist. This will ensure a faster recovery. Besides, regular exercise will help you prevent back and neck pain in the first place.

3. Consult a doctor  If you have to pop more pills for your pain or your pain worsens, you must consult a neck or back specialist, diagnose the exact cause of your pain and get the appropriate treatment. Final thoughts Any kind of back and neck pain can be debilitating and attributed to several factors. However, besides the one we have mentioned, there are several treatment options that can ease your pain, like relaxation, physical therapy, medication, behavioral changes, or acupuncture. Source URL-Tumblr