A backache is something everyone will experience in his or her life. The pain can be so severe nothing seems to relieve it. Luckily, most backaches are minor and have no residual effects. However, they can be a warning sign of something more sinister. Generally, a backache with no other symptoms is a normal part of living. Knowing a few things about what to look for will help differentiate between a normal pain and something more serious.
• Fever- A sign of infection. Seek medical attention.
• Burning during urination -Burning during urination or inability to urinate can be a sign of infection or mass. Seek medical attention.
• Nausea or vomiting- Seek medical attention.
• Recurring- nocturnal back pain- Seek medical attention.
• Backache that does not go away- If the pain persist longer than two or three days seek medical attention.
• Trauma- Seek medical attention.
If the pain does not present with the above symptoms, chances are good it is a common backache. One of many things can cause a common a backache. Soft tissue spasms, such as muscle, tendons, and ligaments will cause pain if overworked. Nerve impingement from bony structures will inflame nerves causing pain. Left to itself the common backache will subside in a few days. However, some things will help a common backache subside quicker. Contrary to popular belief, bed rest does not relieve a backache sooner. Too much bed rest could actually aggravate the pain and make it last longer. Continue reading ‘Physiology of a Back Ache’ »