The somewhat flexible spine has 33 vertebrae supported by powerful muscles, shock-absorbing discs of cartilage between the vertebrae, and strong ligaments that bind the vertebrae together. Although the spine can withstand considerable stress and strain, an overload or degeneration due to disease on one or more of the supporting structures can cause back pain.
Acute or Chronic
Acute back pain occurs suddenly, often the result of an injured ligament or muscle causing muscle spasms, or a less common cause such as a prolapsed or ruptured disc or injured vertebrae. Acute back pain often results from lifting heavy objects while bending awkwardly. In many cases, the pain subsides in a few days.
Chronic or persistent back pain, attributed to bone disease, obesity, an injury, disc prolapse or sciatica, generally comes on gradually. Back pain may also be a symptom of a disorder affecting the lungs, heart, major blood vessels or kidneys.
Those at Risk
Most people complain of back pain at some point in time, often the result of normal daily living. As people age, back pain becomes more prevalent, particularly pain attributed to bone disease. Being in poor physical health, being overweight or having arthritis or cancer can cause back pain. Occupational-related injuries often occur when individuals lift, push or pull items while twisting the torso. Some of these occupations include shipping and receiving, maintenance and construction.
Anatomy
The cervical spine has seven cervical vertebrae, each connected by a series of joints that allow the head to bend forward, backward and side-to-side as well as limited rotation. The thoracic spine consists of 12 vertebrae, with a pair of ribs attaching to each vertebra. The ribs help stabilize this area of the spine and make it resistant to injury. The lumbar spine consists of five vertebrae and is in the lower back, between the last pair of ribs and the pelvis. This region of the spine is relatively mobile and bears the weight of the head, chest and abdomen, which makes it susceptible to injury.
Treatment
Treatment depends on the cause of the pain. A physician my recommend rest and mild painkillers such as aspirin or other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs until the injury heals. A physician may also order muscle relaxants and suggest back stretching and strengthening exercises. Heat treatments, massage or traction can relieve the pain and promote healing. For non-injury specific back pain, a more in-depth examination can determine the cause of the pain, extent of damage and treatment plan to manage the disorder.
Prevention
Most injuries occur due to surpassing the spine's normal range of motion or from trauma to the spine. The spine can withstand considerable stress even through a normal workday. When an individual's occupation involves physical work, his risk of injury becomes greater. Although it is impossible to protect the body completely against back problems, a person can reduce the strain on the back by taking certain precautions. Minimize the risk of injury by maintaining correct posture, wearing an appropriate back support when lifting and by wearing shoes appropriate for the job. Losing excess weight and regular exercise strengthens the back, making a person less susceptible to injury and pain.
