Don’t Self-Treat Your Back Pain. Get To The Root Of The Problem

When it comes to back pain, some people are under the impression that this discomfort is most often the result of some minor issue like stress or poor posture. However, back pain can result for a number of different reasons, many of which are completely out of your control. If you are suffering from back pain, having an idea of where it might be coming from can help clear the way for more effective treatment.

Genetics

Some people can thank their ancestors for their back discomfort as their condition simply comes down to genetics. For example, one rare form of genetic back pain is ankylosing spondylitis, a condition that often targets people of Native American descent. This condition can present itself during adolescence or as late as early adulthood and surfaces as stiffness and lower back pain.

Another genetic factor that can lead to back discomfort is scoliosis, a condition that causes a spine curvature. Pain and discomfort from this disease can arise long before there is any outward, physical evidence that the spine is curved. This pain can range from slightly annoying, but tolerable, all the way to debilitating. In further onset, scoliosis can also lead to mobility concerns.

Age

As the body ages, its wear and tear starts to surface. One common way this wear and tear surfaces in the back is in the form of a herniated disc. Between each of the bones that make up the vertebrae are discs filled with a jelly-like substance. These discs serve as a cushion that also helps keep the vertebrae in place.

As you age, the discs can start to break down, causing them to break open or protrude. Once this happens, the herniated disc can start to press on your nerve roots, causing them to become irritated, resulting in your discomfort. In addition to pain, a herniated disc can also cause weakness in any area that the irritated nerve travels to.

Don't Self Treat

If you have been dealing with ongoing back pain, there is a significant chance that your pain may be associated with some other factor. It's time to stop self-treating and visit a doctor. For example, with conditions like scoliosis, a timely visit to your doctor can prevent the condition from getting worse with both corrective surgical treatment and nonsurgical treatment. However, this type of outcome can only be reached with care from a physician.

If you are suffering from back pain, don't suffer alone. Let a physician like those at Sound Family Health help you get to the bottom of the problem so that you can go back to leading a normal life.


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