Types of back pain

Back pain is often felt in any of these locations: lower, middle or upper back. It can range from mild to intense. Treatment is based on the location and the level of pain.

Lower Back Pain

The lower back undergoes stress every day. Sitting for long periods of time and pregnancy are two causes of this back pain. People who work in an office environment can experience this type of back pain due to the pressure placed on the legs and hips. Pain can radiate from the lower legs all the way to the tailbone area. Avoid lower back pain by standing up and stretching at least every 30 minutes.

Late term pregnancy can cause lower back pain too. The weight of a growing fetus adds extra pressure on nerves in the back and lower extremities. Women may consider taking short walks to increase circulation, which helps with back pain prevention.

Injury or trauma is another cause that should be addressed. Nerve damage caused by herniated disks, joint degeneration and fractures may affect how much pain is felt in the lower back region. Physical therapy, exercise and sometimes surgery are treatment options a doctor may prescribe to relieve pain.

Middle Back Pain

This type of back pain is more common than the others. The middle back consists of vertebrae, nerves and cartilage. Damage due to straining and improper movement is often the cause. Most injuries occur through work-related accidents or housecleaning. Using proper lifting techniques in any of these situations helps avoid injury and pain. Always lift using the legs and never the back. Keep the knees bent whenever lifting heavy objects from the ground or floor and keep objects close to the body. Also keep the back straight and arms close to the body. If in a work setting, ensure you understand the proper lifting techniques to avoid injury.

Overstressed back muscles caused by exercise are another common contributor. Although lifting weights is an excellent way to increase muscle strength, it can hurt the middle back muscles if not performed correctly. People who use weight training as a means to get fit should take breaks in between reps and sets. Stop the exercises if there is pain or discomfort.

The aging process causes a host of ailments including middle back pain. As people age, bone strength may decrease in the spine and nerve damage or weakened muscle tissue may also occur. Both osteoporosis and arthritis contribute to this type of back pain.

Most treatment for middle back pain requires the use of physical therapy or medications. Although herniated disks may occur in the lower portion of the back, it can also occur in the middle region. Surgery is a treatment option for this type of damage.

Upper Back Pain

Upper back pain is caused by muscle irritation and joint dysfunction. Muscle irritation is one type of upper back pain caused by accidents, back strain and improper posture. It is commonly found in people who sit for long periods of time. The strain is felt mostly in the neck and shoulder area. Upper back pain is treated with physical, massage and drug therapies.

Joint dysfunction is an injury in the two joints that connect the ribs to the spine. If any of these joints are damaged, pain may occur. Joint dysfunction is treated by medications and exercise.

Although back pain is discouraging, it can be treated and often prevented with the right care. Speak with a healthcare professional about your treatment options.

Dynaspine

The Dynaspine Back Support can help all of the above types of back pain. Dynaspine conforms to the shape of the back and consistently provides support for back pain relief and aid back pain prevention. Dynaspine can be used as a car back support, an office back support, at home, almost anywhere!

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