Chronic Back Pain

Back pain is a common symptom experienced by people of all genders and ages, especially those who work long hours or sit in improper positions.

Some individuals may experience mild back pain that resolves on its own, while others may suffer from severe and chronic back pain, significantly affecting their daily lives. Therefore, it is essential to understand the underlying causes of back pain in order to seek appropriate treatment promptly.

Why Do We Experience Back Pain?

Back pain refers to aching, stiffness, tension, or soreness in the back. It can result from improper positioning of the spine over extended periods, such as sitting for long hours at work or using a computer with an ergonomic setup that does not suit the user’s proportions and posture. Additionally, incorrect movements, such as lifting heavy objects or twisting the neck and back, can lead to chronic back pain over time.

Risk Factors for Back Pain:

Lack of Physical Activity: Weak muscles around the spine may fail to provide adequate support.
Obesity or Overweight: Excessive weight places additional strain on the spine.
Heavy Lifting: Regularly engaging in activities that require lifting heavy objects can increase risk.
Prolonged Sitting: Office work or working on the floor can contribute to discomfort.
Vibrations and Shocks: Activities such as driving or riding motorcycles can cause back pain.
Stress or Anxiety: Emotional stress can contribute to physical discomfort.

Symptoms of Back Pain:

Pain in the back that may radiate to the hips or legs.
Numbness or tingling sensations along affected nerves.
Dull and persistent pain without relief.
Continuous or position-specific pain, especially during coughing, sneezing, or twisting.
Difficulty urinating or pain in the lower back or genital area.

Treatment According to Symptoms…Without Always Resorting to Surgery

The treatment of chronic back pain depends on the duration and nature of the structural damage to the spine. There are three primary methods of treatment:

Conservative Treatment: Includes physiotherapy and medication to alleviate inflammation and pain.
Surgical Treatment: Recommended when other methods are ineffective or when structural corrections are necessary.
Non-Surgical Treatment (Spine Intervention): This includes four methods to alleviate back pain:

Selective Nerve Root Blocks (SNRB): Injection of medication directly into the affected nerve roots, performed in the cervical and lumbar spine to alleviate localized pain.
Nucleoplasty: Utilizes sound waves to treat intervertebral discs by applying gentle energy to liquefy the gel-like substance inside, reducing pressure on the nerves.
Vertebroplasty: Involves injecting a liquid cement-like substance to treat vertebral compression fractures, restoring density to weakened vertebrae and providing immediate pain relief. The procedure is guided by a special X-ray machine (C-Arm) to ensure accuracy.
Balloon Kyphoplasty: Involves inserting an inflatable balloon into the fractured vertebrae to reduce spinal deformity, followed by the injection of a cement-like substance. This method helps to support the vertebrae, resulting in a straighter spine.

Conclusion

If you experience back pain, it is advisable to consult a specialized physician to identify the underlying cause and receive targeted treatment. Prompt and accurate treatment can help reduce discomfort, minimize the risk of disability, and improve your quality of life.