The Management Of Chronic Back Pain
by Stephen Campbell
One of the leading causes of hospital visits in Blue Bell, PA is back pain. The symptom has been shown to significantly contribute to work absenteeism. In terms of epidimiology, it is seen mostly in persons that are in their sixth and seventh decades in life. The incidence is slightly higher in women than men. The causes of this problem are many and include trauma, tumors, infective processes, degenerative conditions and trauma among others. The symptomatic pattern of <a href="http://energywithintherapy.com">chronic back pain</a> may vary depending on the underlying cause.
In general the discomfort originates from the spinal components. These include the body skeleton (vertebral bodies), the muscles, ligaments, and the inter-vertebral disc. The incidence appears to increase with age because of degenerative changes that affect these structures. Osteoarthritis is one of the most common condition under the degenerative conditions category. It is the result of wear and tear at the inter-vertebral joints.
The tumors that cause back ache may originate from the spinal column itself or may be distant metastases from other affected organs. The commonest tumor that originates from bone and is likely to affect the spine is multiple myeloma. Overall, causes that are attributable to the presence of tumors are caused by metastases. Examples of tumors that frequently metastasize to the spine include those from the thyroid, the breasts, the kidneys and the prostate.
Symptoms resulting from slippage of an inter-vertebral disc usually have a sudden onset. If unattended, it remains constant or may be experienced from time to time. In a majority of the cases, the symptoms follow a heavy lifting event or a blunt force to the back. Typically, the symptoms tend to be experienced on one side of the body and are worsened with activity. The level of slippage determines whether the lower or the upper limbs will be affected.
To establish what the cause of the problem is, one has to give a comprehensive medical history and undergo a systemic physical exam. At the same time, several investigations have to be done as guided by the pattern of symptoms and the findings of the physical examination. Radiological images such as the X-ray, the CT scan and radionuclide studies are vital to the diagnostic process and are almost always a requirement.
There are a number of treatment options that exist. These are classified into pharmaceutical agents, physical therapies and surgical intervention. Analgesic drugs are chosen depending on the severity of symptoms. In cases of mild symptoms, aspirin, acetaminophen, ibuprofen and other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are typically used. Stronger drugs such as steroids and opioids are reserved for the severe cases.
Physical therapies are of different forms. They are mainly targeted and correcting conditions affecting muscles and joints. Examples of those that are used commonly include electrical stimulation, heat and cold treatments, massage and physical exercise. Increased muscle strength is one of the benefits likely to be realized. It is important to note that patients will exhibit varied responses depending on the severity of their illness.
Surgery is usually used as a last resort. There are two main types of surguries that can be performed namely; spinal fusion and decompression. When the cause of symptoms is a prolapsed disc or vertebral components, surgery tends to yield good results.
When you are looking for the facts about <a href="http://energywithintherapy.com">chronic back pain</a>, come to our web pages online here today. Additional details are available at http://energywithintherapy.com now.
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New Unique Article!
Title: The Management Of Chronic Back Pain
Author: Stephen Campbell
Email: nathanwebster335@live.com
Keywords: Chronic back pain
Word Count: 547
Category: Alternative Medicine
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