Since it ranges from acute to chronic and mild to incapacitating, it’s no surprise that there’s more than one reason you may experience back pain. Inflammation and discomfort in muscles, tendons, ligaments, bones, or discs need a professional’s attention before the right treatment plan can be devised. Knowing what’s wrong will give you a better chance of finding relief and improvement of daily life. 

Why Does Back Pain Occur?

1. Disc Issues 

Each segment of the spine contains cartilaginous cushions, or discs, that absorb shock, hold the vertebrae together, and give the spine flexibility. When discs bulge or rupture, they may pinch or put pressure on nerves, which results in sharp pain, burning, numbness, or tingling.

Relieve pain and reduce inflammation by applying an ice pack or heating pad to the affected area. You can also try lying on your back with a pillow under your hips for 15 minutes each day to ease compression. 

2. Strains, Tension, & Injuries

Muscle or ligament strains, spasms, tension, and fractures are among the most common causes of back pain. They often occur due to lifting items incorrectly, whether in terms of weight or moving your body in the wrong way. Reduce swelling by elevating strained limbs and applying ice packs. 

3. Posture

If you drive a truck or company fleet vehicle for a living, work hunched over a desk all day, or stand for long periods of time, poor posture may lead to back pain. Additionally, sleeping in the wrong position can put pressure on your muscles and ligaments, causing discomfort.

Improve your posture and prevent discomfort by using an ergonomic memory foam seat cushion to take stress off your back and keep your spine straight. If you’re a stomach sleeper, try placing a thin pillow beneath your hips. Side sleepers should loosely fold their legs and slide a pillow between the knees.

4. Medical Conditions 

Medical conditions such as spinal cancer and infections, shingles, pelvic inflammatory disease, and kidney stones may cause back pain. Many of these conditions affect the nerves, causing sensations of warmness, pins and needles, and sharp pain in the back. Follow your physician’s guidance and see a chiropractor for adjustments and therapy to relieve discomfort associated with chronic illness. 

Experience relief from back pain with help from O’Fallon Pain Relief Associates. These chiropractors offer exams, adjustments, physical therapy, pain management, and spinal decompression to clients throughout St. Charles County, MO. Your unique needs and abilities will be taken into account when formulating the ideal treatment plan. Call (636) 978-3000 to make an appointment today. Visit the website to learn more about the insurance plans they accept.