According to WHO, back pain is the single leading cause for people living with years of disability and a big challenge to health systems worldwide. More than 1 in 10 people suffer from it globally. Back Pain can really be nauseating and so painful. When it comes to back pain, one diagnosis doesn’t fit all. There are several different types of back pain with a multitude of potential causes. Back pain may grow along the spine or move out to the adjoining muscles. It also varies significantly in intensity and frequency.
There is no uniform metric since it strikes everyone with different intensities. According to healthcare experts at emeds Pharmacy, the cure for back pain is still a challenge for the medical world, and we are still learning new ways to address it. So, here’s all you need to know about the different types of back pain in detail.
Types of Back Pain
Usually, back pain is classified as either acute, subacute, or chronic. If the pain is sudden, temporary and lasts less than a month, it is considered Acute back pain. Similarly, subacute lasts over a month but less than three months, and, last but not least, chronic lasts over three months. The pain returns routinely and is wildly unpredictable.
First, you need to comprehend the structure of your back entirely. A person’s back and spine are separated into various sections:
- The cervical area (also known as the vertebrae of the neck)
- The thoracic region (called the vertebrae of the upper back)
- The lumbar region (or lower back)
The “middle back” is a generalized term used to refer to the area below the ribs and above the hips.
Thoracic Back Pain
As the name suggests, Thoracic back pain refers to the pain that occurs in the thoracic spine. The thoracic spine is located at the posterior portion of the chest (also referred to as the thorax), right between the shoulder blades. It develops from the bottom of the neck and ends at the start of the lumbar spine, roughly at the waist. Thus, known as the “upper back” region. One thing to remember; thoracic back pain has a significant probability of being caused by a grave underlying cause.
Symptoms and Incidents
- Chills or Fever
- Weight Loss (Unexplained/Uncontrollable)
- Prominent Deformity
- Numbness or Tingling in Lower Body
- Severe Stiffness
- Physical Trauma
- Pain appearing before the age of 20 or after 50
Middle Back Pain
Although some consider middle back pain similar to thoracic back pain, it is a bit different. It is described as pain above the lumbar region of the spine but a bit below the rib cage. In cases of middle back pain, it is difficult to prove a diagnosis and find apparent symptoms.
Symptoms
- Muscle Ache
- Bull Pain
- Burning Sensation
- Stabbing Pain
- Stiffness
- Fever or Chills
Lower Back Pain
Low back pain has a wide variety of symptoms. It can go from mild and merely an agitation to severe and debilitating in a matter of days. Low back pain may start suddenly or begin slowly and get gradually worse. It can also be an annoying visitor that comes and goes from time to time.
Symptoms
- Dull Ache
- Stinging/Burning Pain (moves from the low back to the backs of the thighs, lower legs, or feet)
- Numbness/Tingling Sensation
- Muscle Spasms
- Pain After Sitting/Standing for Prolonged Time
- Difficulty Standing Up Straight, Walking, and Getting Up
Severe Back Pain Symptoms
Back pain’s main symptoms are an ache or pain anywhere in the back. Sometimes these aches reach down to the buttocks and legs.
- Unexplained Weight Loss
- Fever
- Swelling on Back
- Pain Below Knees
- Faecal or Urinary Incontinence
- Numbness Around The Genitals, Anus, and Buttocks
If you experience these symptoms, it is advised to contact your physician immediately.
Treatment of Back Pain
The treatment for a patient’s back pain depends strongly upon the root cause and location of the pain. However, several conditions can be partially relieved by a combination of techniques (primarily non-invasive), including a professional massage, simple physical therapy, and other home treatments that you can do yourself.
Mainly, for severe spinal conditions that can not (and should not) be treated by non-invasive methods, several surgical options are available. For both thoracic and middle back pain, the choice of standard procedures is available. These surgeries include discectomy and vertebral fusion.
However, the first and foremost step to be taken before considering treatment is protecting your back. To maintain good back and spine health, doctors recommend developing an appropriate healthy lifestyle.
How To Prevent Back Pain
These apply to two situations: ease your already existing back pain (regardless of where it is) and prevent any future back pain.
Eradicate Unnecessary Strain
Attempt to reduce what you need to carry. Invest in bags that can help distribute the weight evenly. Do not carry things like heavy briefcases, laptop bags, or even purses. These can all add unnecessary stress to your neck and spine.
Adopt A Healthy Workout Routine
If you have strong muscles, especially in your abdominal core, your back will have more support than ever. These muscles keep you upright and become a pillar in physical activities. Strengthening your body reduces the possibility of strain and damage to your back as well.
Improve Your Posture
In general, poor posture puts extra strain on your back and unnecessary pressure on your spine. Improving your posture will ease that pressure. You can use a posture belt, tape, straps, and more. Keep your body in alignment. Reduce slouching or craning your chin forward. And This helps ease all the given pressure on your lower back.
Do Your Stretches
If you go through one routine every single day, then you are bound to experience fatigued muscles. This makes your back more apt to strain. Adopt a habit of stretching regularly to help improve circulation in your back muscles and lower the risk of pain, stress, and fatigue.
Final Word
Back pain can be complex and overwhelming. Just remember to practice caution, sit straight and be kind to your back!
