What is Back Pain?

Back pain is one of the most common health problems affecting people of all ages. It can range from a dull, constant ache to a sudden sharp pain that makes movement difficult. Most cases are linked to posture, lifestyle, or strain, but back pain can also be caused by underlying spinal conditions.

Types & Causes of Back Pain

• Muscle or Ligament Strain: From lifting heavy objects, sudden movements, or poor posture.

• Slipped Disc / Herniated Disc: When the soft cushion between spinal bones presses on a nerve, causing pain or numbness.

• Degenerative Disc Disease & Arthritis: Wear-and-tear of the spine leading to stiffness and chronic pain.

• Sciatica: Pain that radiates from the lower back down the leg due to nerve compression.

• Spinal Deformities: Conditions like scoliosis or kyphosis.

• Injuries or Fractures: Due to falls, accidents, or osteoporosis.

• Other Causes: Infections, kidney problems, or rarely, tumors.

Risk Factors

• Poor posture or sedentary lifestyle

• Obesity or weak core muscles

• Heavy lifting or improper exercise techniques

• Increasing age

• Previous back injuries

• Smoking, which reduces blood flow to spinal tissues

Symptoms & Signs of Back Pain

• Dull or sharp pain in the back or spine

• Stiffness and reduced flexibility

• Pain that worsens with bending, lifting, or prolonged sitting

• Pain radiating to the legs (sciatica)

• Numbness, tingling, or weakness in severe cases

  
  

  
  

Emergencies in Backache — When to Seek Immediate Help

Back pain can sometimes signal a serious underlying condition. Seek urgent medical care if you experience:

• Sudden inability to control bladder or bowel movements

• Severe weakness or numbness in the legs

• Back pain after a fall, accident, or injury

• Unexplained weight loss with persistent back pain

• Fever or night sweats along with back pain

These may indicate spinal cord compression, infection, or fractures that require immediate treatment.

Diagnosis

• Physical examination of posture, strength, and flexibility

• X-rays to check for bone problems or deformities

• MRI/CT scans for disc problems, nerve compression, or spinal degeneration

• Blood tests/special scans if infection or tumor is suspected

Treatment Options

• Lifestyle & Posture Correction – ergonomic advice, weight management, core strengthening

• Medications – pain relievers, anti-inflammatories, muscle relaxants

• Physiotherapy – stretching, strengthening, and posture correction

• Injections – nerve blocks or epidural steroids for severe pain

• Minimally Invasive Surgery – for slipped discs or nerve compression

• Advanced Spine Surgery – for deformities, instability, or complex conditions

Cauda Equina Syndrome (CES) – A Spine Emergency

Cauda Equina Syndrome occurs when the bundle of nerves at the base of the spinal cord (called the cauda equina) is severely compressed. It is a rare but medical emergency that requires urgent surgery to prevent permanent damage.

Warning signs of Cauda Equina Syndrome include:

• Severe lower back pain

• Loss of bladder or bowel control

• Numbness or tingling in the groin, buttocks, or inner thighs (saddle anesthesia)

• Weakness or paralysis in the legs

Why it matters:

If untreated, CES can lead to permanent paralysis, incontinence, and loss of sexual function. Immediate medical attention and often urgent surgery are critical.

Prevention of Backache

Many cases of back pain can be avoided with healthy lifestyle choices:

• Maintain a healthy weight to reduce pressure on the spine

• Practice correct posture while sitting, standing, and working

• Exercise regularly to strengthen back and core muscles

• Lift heavy objects properly by bending your knees, not your back

• Use ergonomic chairs and supportive mattresses

• Avoid prolonged sitting or standing without breaks