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Back Pain

Back pain is discomfort or pain felt in the lower or upper back, it can be caused by poor posture, muscle strain, injury, or underlying health conditions such as osteoarthritis, scoliosis, or herniated disc. Consult a healthcare professional if the pain is severe or chronic.

Back pain Key Points
CausesHerniated disc, Spinal stenosis, Degnerative disc, Osteoarthritis
RemediesMassage therapy, Hot and cold therapy, Physical therapy
Preventive OptionsExercise, Proper technique for lifting, avoid prolonged sitting position
Treatment OptionsAcupuncture, Medication(NSAIDS), Surgery
SpecialistOrthopedist

Back pain is a common condition characterized by discomfort or pain in the back muscles, nerves, bones, and joints. The pain can be acute (sudden and severe) or chronic (long-lasting). Back pain can originate from various causes, including injury, overuse, poor posture, disease, or degeneration of the spine. Back pain caused by human touch, also known as allodynia, is a condition in which the individual experiences pain in response to light touch or pressure on the skin. Let's look out more about it.Back pain can originate from various causes, including injury, overuse, poor posture, disease, or degeneration of the spine. Back pain caused by human touch, also known as allodynia, is a condition in which the individual experiences pain in response to light touch or pressure on the skin. Let's look out more about it.

Other Symptoms that come with back pain

Back pain symptoms can vary depending on the cause, but some common symptoms are listed below.

  1. Pain or discomfort in the lower, upper, or middle back
  2. Stiffness or tightness in the back
  3. Muscle spasms or cramping
  4. Numbness, tinling and weakness
  5. Difficulty standing or sitting for long periods
  6. Difficulty sleeping
  7. Loss of bladder sensation
  8. Pain that worsens with movement or activity
  9. Pain that improves with rest
  10. Fatigue

The Types of Back pain

There are several types of back pain, which can be classified based on the cause, duration, and location of the pain. Some of the most common types of back pain include.

  1. Acute back pain: This type of pain lasts for a short period of time, usually less than six weeks. It can be caused by a muscle strain, sprain, or injury.
  2. Subacute back pain: This type of pain lasts for 6 to 12 weeks. It can be caused by a disk injury, muscle strain, or other condition.
  3. Chronic back pain: This type of pain lasts for longer than 12 weeks and diseases are osteoarthritis, degenerative disk disease, or fibromyalgia.
  4. Mechanical back pain: This type of pain is caused by problems with the muscles, bones, or joints in the back. It can be caused by poor posture, overuse, or injury.
  5. Nerve-related back pain: This type of pain is caused by problems with the nerves in the back. It can be caused by a herniated disk, spinal stenosis, or other condition.
  6. Referred back pain: This type of pain is felt in the back but is caused by a problem in another part of the body such as a kidney infection.

Conditions that cause Back pain

The common disease condition due to back pain is listed below. If you want to learn more, read the list below in detail.

  1. Herniated disc: slipped or ruptured disc. This occurs when the soft inner material of a spinal disc bulges out through a tear in the outer layer. This can pressure nearby nerves and cause pain in the back or leg.
  2. Spinal stenosis: a condition in which the spinal canal changes shape by narrowing down, putting some pressure on the spinal cord and nerves.
  3. Degenerative disc disease: a condition in which the discs between the vertebrae begin to break down and lose their ability to act as shock absorbers. This can cause pain and stiffness in the back.
  4. Osteoarthritis: a degenerative joint disease that can affect the joints in the back, causing pain and stiffness.
  5. Sciatica: a condition caused by compression of the sciatic nerve, which mainly runs from the lower back down through the legs. This can cause pain, tingling, and weakness in the legs.
  6. Fractures: a broken bone can occur in the vertebrae due to trauma or osteoporosis, leading to severe pain

Diagnostic Tests for Back pain

Back pain diagnosis typically begins with a physical examination and review of the individual's medical history.

Imaging tests such as X-rays, CT scans, or MRI scans may be ordered to help identify any structural issues in the back, such as herniated discs, spinal stenosis, or osteoarthritis.

Based on the examination and test results, the healthcare professional may make a diagnosis and recommend a course of treatment. Suppose the cause of the pain is unclear or the symptoms are severe.

In that case, the individual may be referred to a specialist, such as an orthopedic surgeon or a physical medicine and rehabilitation doctor, for further evaluation and treatment.

Treatment for Back pain

There are many different treatment options for back pain, and the best course of treatment will depend on the specific types of pain and the individual's medical history.

  1. Physical therapy: Exercises and stretches to strengthen the muscles in the back and improve flexibility
  2. Medications: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or muscle relaxants to reduce pain and inflammation
  3. Chiropractic care: Manipulation of the spine to improve alignment and relieve pain
  4. Acupuncture: Insertion of thin needles into specific points on the body to relieve pain
  5. Massage therapy: Manipulation of the soft tissues to relieve pain and muscle tension
  6. Hot and cold therapy: Using heat or ice to reduce pain and swelling
  7. Surgery: In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to repair or remove damaged structures in the back

The Preventive Care for Back pain

Several steps can be taken to prevent back pain or reduce the risk of it recurring:

  1. Exercise regularly: Regular physical activity can help strengthen the muscles in the back and improve flexibility, which can help prevent back pain.
  2. Maintain a healthy weight: Being overweight or obese can put extra stress on the back and increase the risk of pain.
  3. Good posture: Sitting and standing with good posture can help reduce back stress and the risk of pain.
  4. Use proper techniques: When lifting heavy objects, bend your knees and keep your back straight to avoid straining your back muscles.
  5. Quit smoking: Smoking can reduce blood flow to the spine and slow down the healing process of back injuries.
  6. Avoid prolonged sitting and standing: Prolonged sitting and standing can stress the back muscles and increase the risk of pain.
  7. Use ergonomic equipment: Make sure your workspace, chair, and computer are set up to reduce stress on your back.
  8. Keep good sleep hygiene: Proper sleep and a mattress can help prevent back pain and maintain good spine health.

When to see a doctor

It'generally recommended to see a healthcare professional if you have back pain that lasts for more than a few days, is severe or debilitating, or is accompanied by other symptoms such as numbness, weakness, or tingling in the legs.

  • Loss of bladder or bowel control
  • Sudden, severe back pain
  • Fever or weight loss
  • A history of cancer
  • Pain that spreads down one or both legs
  • Pain that is worse at night or while lying down
  • Numbness or weakness in the legs
  • Difficulty standing or walking

Back pain Doctors

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If you have back pain and are concerned about your health, it is important to seek immediate medical attention from a qualified back pain doctor. A doctor specializing in treating back pain, such as a Orthopedist, would be the right health professional to consult.

Here is a list of Top verified doctors for back pain. You can book an appointment with one to start your back pain treatment today.

Dr. SM Tuli, Orthopedist in

Dr. SM Tuli

Consultant - Orthopedics, Sports Medicine and Arthoplasty 

65 Years of experience

3 Feedbacks

Fortis C-DOC, Chirag Enclave, Delhi NCR

Dr. Joginder Pal Manocha, Orthopedist in

Dr. Joginder Pal Manocha

Senior Consultant - Orthopedics

53 Years of experience

10 Feedbacks

Sitaram Bhartia Institute of Science and Research, New Delhi, Delhi NCR

Rs. 1,500 Consult Fees

Dr. Rohtash Grover, Orthopedist in

Dr. Rohtash Grover

Consultant - Orthopedics

53 Years of experience

5 Feedbacks

Sitaram Bhartia Institute of Science and Research, New Delhi, Delhi NCR

Back pain Hospitals

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A hospital can provide various services to help diagnose and treat your back pain. If you are experiencing back pain In that case, it is important to visit a back pain hospital for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

Check a list of Top Hospitals for back pain treatment.

Sir HN Reliance Foundation Hospital and Research Centre, Mumbai

Sir HN Reliance Foundation Hospital and Research Centre, Mumbai

Multi Speciality Hospital

4.9
4.9 out of 5 stars(1658 Reviews)

Established in 1918

🛌345 Beds

https://cdn.credihealth.com/system/images/assets/45663/original/Anil_Karapurkar.webp?1682695579https://cdn.credihealth.com/system/images/assets/62022/original/Madhav_Kamat.webp?1682696472https://cdn.credihealth.com/system/images/assets/45874/original/Bhupendra_Gandhi.webp?1682695590https://cdn.credihealth.com/system/images/assets/62633/original/Gustad_B_Daver.webp?1682696506https://cdn.credihealth.com/system/images/assets/63645/original/Vijay_N_Khambhati.webp?1682696564 5+ Doctors
Dr Mehta Hospital, Chetpet, Chennai

Dr Mehta Hospital, Chetpet, Chennai

Multi Speciality Hospital

4.3
4.3 out of 5 stars(3 Reviews)

Established in 1940

🛌220 Beds

https://cdn.credihealth.com/others/doctor_thumb.webphttps://cdn.credihealth.com/others/doctor_thumb.webphttps://cdn.credihealth.com/others/doctor_thumb.webphttps://cdn.credihealth.com/others/doctor_thumb.webphttps://cdn.credihealth.com/others/doctor_thumb.webp 5+ Doctors
Nanavati Hospital, Vile Parle, Mumbai

Nanavati Hospital, Vile Parle, Mumbai

Super Speciality Hospital

4.7
4.7 out of 5 stars(1134 Reviews)

Established in 1950

🛌350 Beds

https://cdn.credihealth.com/system/images/assets/56142/original/Ashok_Mehta.webp?1682696151https://cdn.credihealth.com/system/images/assets/62971/original/Agyasingh_Kochar.webp?1682696527https://cdn.credihealth.com/system/images/assets/64539/original/Nana_C_Joshi.webp?1682696613https://cdn.credihealth.com/system/images/assets/54588/original/Rashid_H_Merchant.webp?1682696064https://cdn.credihealth.com/system/images/assets/52673/original/Harish_Mohanty.webp?1682695956 5+ Doctors

Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently asked questions and answers about back pain.

How is back pain treated?

Treatment for back pain can include over-the-counter or prescription medication, physical therapy, exercise, and in some cases, surgery.

What causes back pain?

Back pain can be caused by a variety of factors such as muscle strain, poor posture, spinal disc herniation, degenerative disc disease, arthritis, osteoporosis, and spinal stenosis. In some cases, back pain may be a symptom of a more serious condition such as an infection or tumor.

How long does it take for back pain to go away?

The duration of back pain can vary depending on the cause and severity of the injury or condition. In some cases, it may resolve quickly with treatment, while in others it may take weeks or months to improve.

How can I relieve my back pain?

To relieve back pain, you can try home remedies such as applying heat or cold compresses, practicing good posture, gentle stretching, and over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen. If your pain persists, it's recommended to see a doctor for further evaluation.

3. Is it safe to exercise with back pain?

Exercise can be beneficial for managing back pain, but it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new exercise program. They can recommend specific exercises and activities that are safe and appropriate for your individual condition.

How do I know if my back pain is serious?

If your back pain is severe, lasts for more than a few days, is accompanied by fever, numbness or weakness in the legs, loss of bladder or bowel control, or difficulty standing or walking, it may be a sign of a serious condition such as a spinal cord injury or infection. In such cases, it's important to seek medical attention right away.

Back pain Patient Reviews

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Reviews by patients on different.

Back painReview 1

Annu Jain

Medanta The Medicity

I always used to be scared of visiting a hospital as I had always seen chaos at these places especially in the OPD.After visiting Medanta, specifically Dr. A Rajgopal's team, I was profoundly content as I was guided through each step right from first appointment, admission, billing, surgery, orientation and discharge formalities. I want to write a special word of thanks to Dr A Rajgopal for the surgery, Dr Alok Madan for his detailed, well explained and very helpful orientation session and increasing the patients confidence levels which would have been difficult for me, Dr Gaurav for great physio session and being considerate, Dr Kalpana for being so direct, strict and clear in all the corrections that need to be made by the patient and the people looking after, Dr Dahiya and Dr Yunus for being considerate to receive my calls ad hoc.I would also like to appreciate Nurse Shehzad Khan whose care was especially noticed by the patient and was most approachable for help/assistance.

Back painReview 2

Dr. Suneet Raut

I had bad shoulder pain, for last 3-4 yrs., and had tried everything available but got no relief. My pain was ever increasing- movements hampered, could not sleep properly. My physiotherapist friend mentioned Dr. Shreyash Gajjar, I proceeded after seeking his appointment at Kokilaben Hospital.Dr. Shreyash Gajjar suggested Total shoulder replacement. I agreed and went through the procedure, quite a big thing. Eight months, later now, I have completely recovered, absolutely pain-free and doing all the activities,- even driving my favorite bike - Bullet.My experience with Dr Gajjar, right from the first meeting to surgery and follow-ups has been very good. God Bless Dr. Shreyash Gajjar !!

Back painReview 3

Tejas Wadhawan

Medanta The Medicity

<p>Dr. Attique Vasudev is a godly doctor. Very patient and calm. I was very sacred before meeting him. I was thinking that my tendon tear is going to treated only by surgery. It was not getting better. But Dr. Attique Vasudev turned out to be 100 on 100. Definitely not a trigger happy doctor who would recommend surgery. He explained my medical condition to me. He explained very nicely how to take care of my shoulder at home. He advised me pain medicines and a gel for massage for 2 months. Genuine doctor. I will recommend him to everyone who has to choose a doctor for tendon tear problems. And, thank you Credihealth for very smooth process at the hospital.</p>

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