What is Back Pain?

Back pain is a common complaint in adults (especially the elderly) and it is a common reason for people to go to the doctor or miss work. According to many experts, most people experience lower back pain at least once during their lives.

The severity of back pain can be mild (that is a dull, constant ache) or severe sharp pain that makes it hard to move. It may start suddenly after a fall or lifting something too heavy, or slowly and then worsen gradually. Remember that you can prevent back pain by:

• Being active and doing exercises regularly to keep your back muscles strong.
• Maintain a healthy weight and if you are obese by losing weight.
• Taking calcium and vitamin D supplements daily to maintain strong bones.
• Maintaining good posture while sleeping, sitting, standing and lifting heavy things.
• Avoid lifting heavy things and if you have to lift something heavy, bend your legs and keep your back straight.

However, the good part is most people even with severe back pain recover within a few weeks and are able to resume their daily activity and certain measures can help you to prevent or lessen most back pain episodes. But in some people it can be persistent and can become a difficult and frustrating problem both for the patient and their doctors.

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