Musculoskeletal

Back Pain

Back pain is one of the most common medical problems, affecting most people at some point in their lives. It can range from a dull, constant ache to a sudden, sharp sensation that leaves a person incapacitated. Pain can be classified as acute (less than 6 weeks), sub-chronic (6–12 weeks), or chronic (more than 12 weeks). Most back pain is mechanical in nature.

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Symptoms

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Causes

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Treatments

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Prevention

Condition Overview

Understand key symptoms, causes, diagnosis options, and treatment pathways for Back Pain. This overview is intended for patient awareness and should be followed by specialist consultation.

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Symptoms

  • Muscle ache
  • Shooting or stabbing pain
  • Pain that radiates down your leg
  • Pain that worsens with bending, lifting, standing, or walking
  • Pain that improves with reclining
  • Numbness or tingling
  • Leg weakness

Causes

  • Muscle or ligament strain
  • Bulging or ruptured disks
  • Arthritis
  • Osteoporosis
  • Skeletal irregularities

Diagnosis

  • Physical examination
  • X-rays
  • MRI or CT scans
  • Blood tests
  • Bone scan
  • Nerve studies (EMG)

Treatment

  • Over-the-counter pain relievers
  • Muscle relaxants
  • Topical pain relievers
  • Physical therapy
  • TENS (transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation)
  • Surgery

Risk Factors

  • Age
  • Lack of exercise
  • Excess weight
  • Diseases
  • Improper lifting
  • Psychological conditions
  • Smoking

Prevention

  • Exercise regularly
  • Build muscle strength and flexibility
  • Maintain a healthy weight
  • Stand and sit smart
  • Lift properly

Prevalence

Back pain is the leading cause of disability worldwide, with nearly 80% of adults experiencing it at some point.

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Arthritis

Arthritis is a broad term that refers to inflammation of one or more joints, causing pain, swelling, stiffness, and limited range of motion. There are more than 100 different types of arthritis. The most common forms are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Arthritis is a leading cause of disability in the United States.

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Bursitis

Bursitis is a painful condition that affects the small, fluid-filled sacs called bursae that cushion the bones, tendons, and muscles near joints. Bursitis occurs when bursae become inflamed. The most common locations are the shoulder, elbow, and hip. Bursitis often occurs near joints that perform frequent repetitive motion.

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