I have back pain, what should I do?

Initially you must identify the area of ​​the back where your problems arise. They are generally classified into 3 areas (cervical, dorsal and lumbar):

Cervical (neck) pain

Cervical pain is usually the result of poor posture, injuries, or wear and tear due to aging.

Common symptoms:

• Pain and stiffness in the neck.
• Pain that can radiate to the shoulders and arms.
• Headaches.

Initial Management:

1. Improve Posture: Adjust your workstation so that your screen is at eye level. Use a chair with adequate lumbar support and keep your feet flat on the floor.
2. Apply Heat or Cold: Use a hot compress or ice pack to reduce swelling and relieve pain.
3. Stretching exercises: Perform gentle neck stretches several times a day to improve flexibility and reduce muscle tension.

Middle Spinal Pain (thoracic, dorsal)

Pain in the middle of the back is less common than neck or lower back pain, but it can be the result of postural problems, muscle sprains, or even heart or lung problems in less common cases.

Common symptoms:

• Pain between the shoulder blades.
• Stiffness in the thoracic area.
• Pain that worsens with deep breathing or movement of the torso.

Initial Management:

1. Postural Correction: Make sure your posture is correct when sitting or standing for long periods. Adopting an upright posture can relieve tension in the middle back.
2. Massages: Applying gentle massages can help release accumulated muscle tension.
3. Muscle Strengthening: Specific exercises to strengthen the core and back muscles such as light weight lifting or Pilates exercises.

Lumbar pain (lower back), many people confuse it with hip pain.

Lower back pain can be caused by improper lifting of heavy objects, overexertion, or poor posture. It can also be caused by conditions such as herniated discs or sciatica.

Common symptoms:

• Dull or sharp pain in the lower back.
• Pains that radiate towards the legs.
• Difficulty standing or moving.

Initial Management:

1. Stay Active but Avoid Prolonged Rest: Continue with light activities to maintain mobility and prevent stiffness, but avoid activities that exacerbate pain.
2. Use of Over-the-Counter Medications: Pain relievers such as ibuprofen or paracetamol can help reduce pain and inflammation.
3. Relaxation and Stretching Techniques: Practice relaxation exercises and gentle stretches, such as yoga, which can relieve tension in your back muscles.

When to seek help from a neurosurgeon?

Severe and Disabling Pain

If you experience severe, constant pain in your back or neck that does not improve with conservative treatments such as physical therapy, medications, or alternative therapies, it is advisable to consult a neurosurgeon. Persistent pain may be a sign of more serious conditions that require evaluation and possible surgical intervention.

Neurological Symptoms

The presence of neurological symptoms such as numbness, tingling, muscle weakness, loss of bladder or bowel control, difficulty walking, or balance problems may indicate damage to the spinal cord or peripheral nerves. These symptoms require a thorough evaluation by a neurosurgeon to determine the underlying cause and appropriate treatment.

Trauma or Serious Injuries

In cases of traumatic injuries to the spine, such as fractures, dislocations, or herniated discs due to car accidents, falls, or sports impacts, it is crucial to seek specialized care immediately. A neurosurgeon can evaluate the severity of the injury and recommend the most appropriate treatment to prevent long-term complications.

Preexisting Diagnosis

If you have already been diagnosed with a spinal condition such as a herniated disc, spinal stenosis, spondylolisthesis or other degenerative diseases, including a history of cancer, and this condition has become progressive or disabling despite receiving conservative treatment, schedule a consultation with a neurosurgeon to discuss advanced treatment options. 

Conclusion

Initial management of spinal pain can make a big difference in your recovery and well-being. While these recommendations can be helpful, it is always important to check if the pain persists or worsens. A proper diagnosis and personalized treatment plan are essential to effectively address any spinal problem.

Taking care of your back is crucial to maintaining a good quality of life. With these tips, you can take proactive steps to manage spinal pain and improve your overall health. 

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