Studies tell us that over 85% of the general population will suffer with back pain in their lifetime. It affects over 1.7 billion people worldwide and is the leading cause of disability. The financial drain is also staggering. Duke University Medical Center researchers has found that patients suffering from back pain consume more than $90 billion annually in health-care expenses, with approximately $26 billion of that amount directly attributable to treating the back pain. Keep in mind that this study was done in 1998. It is estimated now that it is anywhere from $125-180 billion.
One would think that as information and technology improves and increases, less people would suffer and the market would drive the cost down. Think again. Even with new technologies most chronic health condition cures including back pain have plateaued.
What is someone who suffers with this to do? What is the best treatment for them? Should you see a physical therapist? A Chiropractor? Massage therapy? Neurologist or orthopedist? Only take pain meds? Back pain treatment is not a one size fits all. A chiropractor may do wonders for one person while little for another. Surgery may be the best option for others while for some, massage may be in order. It depends on many factors and a skilled clinician should be able to direct you to the appropriate care.
A skilled clinician who is versed in dealing with this issue will look at a number of different mechanisms that can cause back pain.
• Is it mechanical in nature?
• Is it inflammatory based?
• Is it metabolically base?
• Is it a repetitive issue?
• Is it medication induced?
These are just a few things that need to be investigated in order to direct the person down the right treatment path. A thorough consultation and examination will help the clinician determine the mechanism and therefore increase the chance of recovery.
Self Back Pain Treatment Suggestions:
• Stay active: most of the time activity will decrease the pain. If it increases it, discontinue
• Alternate hot/cold: start with 5 minutes of moist heat, then ice for 5 minutes. Repeat
• OTC meds: acetaminophen, ibuprofen or Naprosyn can help with pain control. This is especially helpful if it is just a strain. If it is more chronic in nature, you should get it evaluated.
• Core exercises and stretching: very important to do and must be done properly
• Triggering activities: look at your situation at work or your daily activities to see if something you do on a regular basis triggers your pain.
So what type of treatment is best? It depends. They all work well when they are addressing the mechanism of the problem. Do some research and find someone who you feel would suit you best. If you do not respond to it, find another type of treatment.
Dr. Tim Lind is a Chiropractor, lecturer and health educator in Bend, Oregon. More information can be found at his website at http://www.doclind.com
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