Back pain

Types of back pain

Chronic

• recurrent pain
• any movement can start it off
• pain may linger on for long time

Acute

• suddenly and intensely
• while doing something wrong or in the wrong way
• pain for a short while

Causes of back pain

• trying to move the immovable, may cause you to push, pull, twist, bend and strain your back in the wrong way
• poor physical condition eg, obesity, weak stomach muscles
• work requiring sifting or standing for long periods of time
• emotional stress may influence the intensity with which you experience your back pain
• long periods of inactivity

 

Treatment of back pain

Prevention is better than cure!

• pain management
• lose excess weight
• maintain a good posture at all times by doing the following:
  • learn to stand tall with your head up and shoulders back
  • sit straight with your back supported
  • wear sensible shoes
  • sleep on a firm mattress
  • sleep on your side with knees bent
  • when driving sit with your back straight
• exercise to:
  • strengthen back and stomach muscles
  • and reduce stress
• learn to lift correctly:
  • avoid quick and jerky movements
  • position yourself correctly in front of object
  • bend your knees not your waist
  • lift the object using your legs, not your back
  • put down load by squatting down, keeping your back in an upright position

NB! If the load is heavy, bulky or awkward: Do not be a muscle man, ask for help!