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If you are suffering from a bad back then you are not alone. It is estimated that four million Australians currently have back pain. The important thing is that you identify what has caused your back pain and understand how to avoid it in the future.

You also need to recognize the fact that some back pain will not go away by itself. You need to speak to a specialist to have the injury assessed. This may include talking to a reputable spine surgeon regarding treatment options.

It should be noted that spinal surgery is avoided unless there are no other options.

Why You Have Back Pain

There are several reasons why you are suddenly suffering from back pain. The first is that you have recently lifted something too heavy or incorrectly, (or both). Whenever you lift something you should bend your knees and keep your back straight. Push up with your legs.

If you can’t lift it get help instead of struggling.

Other causes of back pain include trauma. For example, when you have been involved in a car accident or playing sports. It should be noted that the pain can come on gradually, this is often linked to adrenaline wearing off

Additionally, back pain can be a sign that there is something else wrong with your body, such as an infection. In this case, you are likely to feel ill all over as well as your back pain.

When To Visit A Doctor

If you know what has caused your back pain then the main question is how much damage you have done. The generally approved approach is to use cold and hot therapy. That means using a cold pack on the painful area for short periods throughout the first 24-hours. The aim is to reduce the blood flow which prevents inflammation.

You can then switch to hot therapy to stimulate blood flow and the supply of nutrients to the injured area. This will help it to heal.

Alongside this, you should take painkillers to help eliminate the pain and keep moving as much as possible.

However, if any of the following apply you should see your doctor for further examination:

  • Pain lasts longer than 3 weeks

  • Is exceptionally severe and stopping you from doing anything

  • Pain is spreading down one or both legs

  • Numbness, especially in the lower part of your leg

  • Rapid weight loss

  • Bladder or bowel problems

  • Fever

Your doctor can examine your spine to identify which common issue it is and advise you of the best treatment options.

  • Muscle or ligament injury

These are usually caused by poor lifting procedures, they can heal in time.

  • Disk problem

A ruptured or bulging disk is very painful and may need medical intervention. It can heal by itself but it's best to get a professional opinion.

  • Arthritis

Arthritis can affect any bone in your body. When it hits your spine it can cause the spinal canal to narrow, potentially pressurizing the nerves and causing pain.

  • Osteoporosis

This condition makes your brittle and weak, making it much easier to fracture your spine.