Archive for the ‘upper back pain’ Category
Your back is a vital body part. It plays an essential role in every part of daily life. Since the back is so important, you want to keep up-to-date on information about back pain and its treatment.
Begin with this basic information.
Information on Back Pain #1 – What Is Your Back?
Back pain can best be understood when you understand the structure of your back, so let’s build a spine. Your back consists of 30 small bones called vertebrae. These bones are stacked on top of each other, and connected by ligaments, tendons, and muscles. Your stack of connected vertebrae is divided into four regions. From the base of your skull down to your pelvis, these four regions are:
1. Cervical or neck vertebrae – the top 7
2. Thoracic or upper back vertebrae – the next 12
3. Lumbar or lower back vertebrae – 5 more
4. Sacrum and coccyx – 6 fused bones at the spine’s base
Between your vertebrae are round, spongy cartilage pads called disks. Disks act as shock absorbers for your spine. A column-like spinal cord runs through your stack of vertebrae. It, too, is divided into segments similar to nearby vertebrae. Your spinal cord contains nerve roots and nerve rootlets that spread out, sending messages of pain from your back to your brain.
Information on Back Pain #2 – Back Pain’s Causes
Back pain is among the most common complaints. It is also one of the most painful. Since it can be difficult to treat, it is important that you have good information on back pain. Most good information on back pain will agree that when you lift something too heavy, you may cause a sprain, pull, strain, or spasm in one of the muscles or ligaments in your back. That will cause back pain.
Let’s look at more specific information on back pain.
1. Your cervical spine, or upper back, begins at the base of your skull. It is composed of seven vertebrae with eight pairs of cervical nerves. This part of your spine is designed to support your head and give you mobility.
Injury or mild trauma to the cervical spine can cause one of a number of serious, even life-threatening medical emergencies. You might have a spinal cord injury (SCI) or a fracture. Such injury could cause pain, numbness, weakness, and tingling.
2. Your thoracic spine is just below your cervical spine. Your ribs are connected to this part of the spine. Think of it as the back of your chest. Your thoracic spine is designed to be strong and stable, permitting you to stand upright and protecting your vital internal chest organs. Although thoracic, or middle back pain is rather uncommon, it causes significant pain when it does occur.
The most common causes of middle back pain are muscular irritation and joint dysfunction. You may injure a disk, and cause middle back pain, but such injuries are very rare.
3. Your lumbar spine, or lower back region, is most likely to experience pain. This is because your lumbar region supports the weight of your upper body. It takes the most abuse.
Many things can cause injury and pain to your lower back. As with all parts of the spine, muscle strain or spasm may occur when you lift or carry things that are too heavy. Sprains of ligaments occur in similar manner. You may experience joint problems or a “slipped disk.”
The most common cause of lumbar or lower back pain, though, is simply using your back muscles for actions you usually do not do. Perhaps you sit at a desk most days, but one weekend, you help friends move furniture. Or you normally teach school, but during the summer, you decide to create a large vegetable garden in your back yard.
A so-called “slipped disk” (herniated disk) occurs when a disk, one of those spongy cartilage pads between your spines vertebrae bulges out and presses on nerves. This often occurs when you twisting while lifting something. You may not know what caused your slipped disk, if it happens. You will know the lower back pain that comes as a result.
Information on Back Pain #3 – Back Pain and Your Physician
Not every back pain will require a visit to your physician. Many back pains can be treated effectively at home with heating pads and ice packs. Over-the-counter (OTC) medications can also give the relief needed. However, there are times when you will want your physician to give information on back pain, and prescribe treatment.
Seek a qualified physician if any of the following is true:
• Your pain is so bad you can’t move around
• Your pain is not less after two weeks
• Your pain was caused by an injury
• You have a fever
• You feel nauseous or are vomiting
• You have a stomachache
• You are weak or sweating
• Your pain goes down the leg below your knee
• You lose control over going to the bathroom
• Your foot, leg, rectal, or groin area is numb
Information on Back Pain #4 – Back Pain Prevention
Your health care provider, whether physician, chiropractor or other, will encourage you to maintain an active, healthy lifestyle as part of back pain prevention. The best information on back pain they can provide you is to avoid injury in the first place. Develop healthy back habits. The following five bad habits can cause back pain. Avoid them.
• Twisting when lifting
• Bad posture
• Lack of exercise and too much weight
• Smoking tobacco
• Ignoring back pain
The more information on back pain you have, the better prepared you will be to deal with it.
Anna Hart
http://www.articlesbase.com/health-articles/information-on-back-pain-keeping-your-back-straight-94494.html
Injuries can cause back pain, including injuries to the upper limbs, shoulders, neck, spine, etc. Injuries can occur also cause back pain if the rotator cuffs are disturbed. The rotator cuffs comprise acromion, tendons, such as the rotator cuffs, which rest at the upper bones at the arm, and connect with rotator cuff muscles. The muscles are at the top of the upper arm bones, and below the shoulder joints. Rotator cuffs are clusters of smaller muscles, tendons, etc, and attach to various parts of the body.
If the tendons are torn and/or ruptured it can cause back pain. The injuries usually occur when sudden impacts or forces target the region. Exerting the muscles can also cause injury. If the tendons are damaged, it causes inflammation and swelling, which obviously creates pain.
Such problems are treated with rest, ice packs, compression, and elevation. Shoulder injuries are seen when the arm is thrown out of socket. The injuries occur from falls, overexerting muscles, etc. The doctor considers such injuries carefully, since fractures may arise, which start within the humerus. In some instances, surgery is mandatory to correct the problem.
Additional injuries include arc pain, shoulder freeze, tendonitis, subacromial bursa, acromio-clavicular, and so on. The Bursa is a sac filled with fluids that serve as padding to reduce friction. The purpose of the bursa is to make movement easy and to avert rubbing of the joints. The bursa can cause problems when the shoulders are suddenly tossed over the head.
Treatment for subacromial bursa conditions, include steroid regimens, physical therapy, meds, etc, especially when inflammations sets in. The condition can cause back pain, since bursa is an assistant to the joints, cartilages, bones, and synovium. Bursa works by playing down the risks of joint damage.
If bursa inflames it compresses the nerves, or tendons. What happens after is failure, especially once the joints rub. The soft pockets amid the bones that overlap and protect other bones can cause serious back pain, since inflammation has set in from bursa disorders. The tension caused from inflammation hits the muscles, overexerting these muscles, which the sensory nerves are slowed down and movement is limited.
Posture is the pose we receive from bearing muscles and joints. If a person slouches, often it can cause back pain, since the muscles and joints are not moving, as they should. Physical therapy and meds are often employed to correct the problem. Sitting at long intervals can also cause back problems, especially if the lower back is not supported. In fact, sitting incorrectly can bend the spine at the lower back and cause serious pain.
Back pain in this nature may arrive from sport activities as well, such as heavy lifting, repeated twisting, and so on. Slouches can correct back problems by learning how to sit and stand in proper positions. The back when damaged from slouching affects the lumbar. In addition, the slouchier will need to learn correct techniques of lifting.
Back pain can arrive from slipped disk, sciatica, sacro-iliac, etc. Slip disks is a Herniated nucleus pulposa (HNP) disorder. Slip disks is rupturing of the ‘intervertebral disk.’ The intervertebral disk sits amid the Spinal Columns and next to the backbone.
Slipped disks start at the spinal canal, nerves, gelatinous core, and finally at the disks. When the nerve roots are pressured, the disk can slip, causing herniated nucleus pulposa. Sciatica is a sort of slipped disk, since the pain sends sharp, electrical shock-like pain down the canal of the spine, sending a distressing ache that starts at the back. The pain carries onto the legs. The pain is at times intermittent, yet other times it can lead to chronic pain syndrome. Surgical procedures are often required to correct the problem.
John Pawlett
http://www.articlesbase.com/health-articles/injuries-and-back-pain-97229.html
Fibromyalgia is a term that is used to diagnose individuals who suffer from chronic muscular irritation. Individuals who suffer from fibromyalgia experience very tender muscular points that cause intense pain. There are other symptoms as well that they suffer such as, extreme fatigue, irritable bowl syndrome, headaches, insomnia, and depression. Fibromyalgia can be debilitating to those who suffer from it. The onset of fibromyalgia is often seen in individuals who have gone through an extreme emotional or physical trauma. It appears that those who have been diagnosed with this disease also do not enter into deep sleep cycles and when this happens, the muscles do not have a chance to rest and recover properly. Back pain is increased when a person does not get adequate rest. Individuals who experience this disease may also suffer from other forms of muscle problems such as tendonitis, bursitis, muscle strain, cramping, and spasms.
Along with the many symptoms of fibromyalgia, back pain is often a primary complaint among those who suffer with the disease. Whether the pain is in the upper or lower portion of the back, there is extreme discomfort. Many times, it is impossible to sit or stand for extended periods. Here are some methods of back pain relief for those who suffer from fibromyalgia.
Heat is an exceptional therapy for the majority of muscle aches and pains, and it works especially well for the upper and lower back. Heat works to loosen up the muscles and stimulate circulation, allowing your body to heal itself. Different types of heat therapies include:
Heat wraps: Many heat wraps today are made to wrap around portions of your lower back or any section of your back that is in pain. They can be warmed in a microwave or in a sink of warm water. Many of these wraps are designed so that you can wear them during the night and up to eight hours.
Heating pad: These are great and simple to use. You can place them on the back of your chair or whatever surfaces you may be lying on. They are excellent at targeting specific areas of pain in your back.
Warm baths: Besides being a great stress reliever, they are excellent for relieving back pain associated with fibromyalgia.
Back supports are an excellent tool to help alleviate back pain (upper and lower). They are excellent if you have to sit for extended periods in front of a computer or desk. When purchasing a back support look for one that has a curve that will fit into the lower back region. It should have a high back that will ensure that your neck and shoulders are also in alignment and that it has an adjustable back (this way you can use it with a variety of different chairs).
You may want to consider exercises that are designed to eliminate (or at least minimize) back pain. Back exercises will help to strengthen your back muscles and helping to bring your spine into alignment. Be careful and only do these according to your level of comfort.
Curl up: Curls strengthen the abdominal and lower back muscles.
Upper body extension: These extensions strengthen the muscles in your upper back
Arm-leg Extension: This exercise will help keep your spine in alignment, which will relieve the pressure on your lower back.
Electric stimulation is effective pain relief for those suffering back pain from fibromyalgia. The electric stimulation is used to block the pain receptors that cause the nerves to become irritated. This micro-current stimulates healing to the area of tissue that is injured. It can also be used to charge the muscles to contract. If you want to try this method, find a practitioner who is licensed with this type of therapy treatment. You may want to look into alternative treatments for both your back pain and fibromyalgia. Many therapies available help to relieve muscle soreness while at the same time increasing circulation, which will enhance muscle repair. Always look for a qualified practitioner before beginning any type of alternative therapy treatments. Some other alternative treatments to consider include acupuncture, massage therapy, and hydrotherapy.
There are many forms of treatment available for those who suffer from back pain due to fibromyalgia. Always consult with your medical professional and they can help you on your journey to experiencing less pain in your life.
Pete Wyatt
http://www.articlesbase.com/non-fiction-articles/fibromyalgias-role-in-back-pain-and-some-tips-to-provide-relief-52114.html
The spinal column may be divided broadly into two main sections. The thoracic or upper spine helps protect the organs that it covers and facilitates the different postures that we adopt. The lumbar or the lower half of the spine is responsible for movement, as is the neck.
Everyone, some more than others, has experienced back pain at some point in his life. The causes for back pain are many. Most people suffer from lower back pain and though upper back pain is not as common, it does occur.
The lower back is susceptible to injuries, as complaints from those who suffer a backache testify. The lumbar region is prone to discs being displaced. Discs degenerate with age and sometimes the spinal column narrows abnormally.
Backache in the upper portion of the back is the result of aberrations or damage to the thoracic backbone. Pain could be caused by irritation of the fibrous tissue between the muscles and due to the malfunctioning of joints. A deterioration of the discs in the upper back may instigate such a complaint as well. These problems often go unnoticed by those who suffer from pain in the upper region of the back, since there is restricted movement in this part of the spinal cord. For the same reason, the upper back is not as prone to injury as the lower portion. It is firmer from not being subjected to great mobility.
The main cause for upper back pain is defective posture. People who regularly work at computers are liable to develop upper backache. This kind of pain often exists in conjunction with pain in the neck and shoulder. Trauma after an accident where the upper vertebrae are injured can cause intense pain. This is not common. However if the case arises, rush the individual to a doctor. The earlier tests are run to assess the damage, the sooner can the treatment begin.
If a joint malfunctions or an irritation caused by the muscles brings pain, there are ways to combat the discomfort and ease the excruciating pain some may be racked with. Exercising everyday may lessen the pain. Physiotherapy sessions might cure the condition as well. An osteopath could alleviate the pain by chiropractic manipulation of the spine. Massages by reputed practitioners, especially deep massages to treat the condition, could bring some much-needed relief. Acupuncture, an alternative gaining in popularity could be your answer. A doctor may choose to inject local anesthesia into the points that trigger off the pain. Chemists may sell medicines that bring relief. The most common antidote would be drugs prescribed by your doctor.
If you have a persistent backache, don’t neglect it. It is better to get to the root of the cause. Once that has been established, you can follow it up with the right treatment, depending on the severity your case.
Stephen Madsen
http://www.articlesbase.com/health-articles/what-are-the-causes-of-back-pain-87319.html
Upper back pain is primarily a result of irritation of muscles and while it is not as common as lower back pain, it can be very painful and restrictive.
Many people are suffering upper back pain caused by work conditions, and poor posture and stress are often the cause.
Here’s a quick test. Next time you are at your computer just pause for a second and take note of your posture. Chances are your shoulders are hunched and you are leaning forward.
Now sit with your back straight. Even better get a chair that allows you to sit comfortably with your back in it. See how different your posture is now?
Try to pay attention to your posture on a regular basis. You’ll be surprised how often you catch yourself in the wrong position, but are able to self-correct and help your back.
You might on occasion find yourself waking up with upper back pain. If it’s a common occurrence, chances are that it’s your pillow that’s at fault.
When you first get a pillow, you head is a couple of inches off the mattress. But over time, the pillow gets flattened, and your head may only be half an inch off the mattress. This shift in position could be what’s making you more susceptible to upper back pain.
Aggressive treatment for upper back pain
A great way to treat upper back pain, especially throbbing upper back pain, is icing. Ice your upper back 3-4 times per day for 10 – 15 minutes, for two days.
Talk with your doctor about anti-inflammatory medicine such as ibuprofen. My experience has been that the doctor will advise a stronger dosage than what’s on the label and that can accelerate your recovery.
Exercises for upper back pain
If your pain is bad and lasts for a few days, go and see your doctor. Chances are that he will start you on exercises for your upper back to help recover from injury. Exercises that are often recommended include the following which should only be done after being advised by your doctor:
1.Standing in the corner of a room, about two feet or so from the wall. Put your hands on the walls at chest height. Then lean in to the corner until your shoulders are level with your hands. You will feel the stretch across your upper back and shoulders. Hold it for 10 to 15 seconds. Don’t lean in past your shoulders though since this can cause injury.
2.Stand or sit up straight. Now pull back your shoulder blades so that it feels that you are trying to touch them. Feel the stretch across your chest and shoulders.
Don’t try and rush your recovery from upper back pain. Follow your doctor or physiotherapist’s advice and you’ll increase your chances of being pain free sooner rather than later.
Frank Thornton
http://www.articlesbase.com/medicine-articles/how-to-treat-upper-back-pain-119980.html
Upper back pain is not as common as the lower back pain. But pain is pain. When the pain process starts, it is unbearable. The two common identified causes of upper back pain are:
1. Muscular irritation (also known as myofascial pain)
2. Joint dysfunction.
There can be many other causes- injury, accidents, upper disc displacement and many more.
There is a great deal of stability and less motion in the upper back, which is thoracic spine region. So, spinal disorders are not very common. Conditions like herniated disc, spinal stenosis, degenerative disc disease and spinal disability can cause upper back pain, but such cases are few. This being the case, it is difficult to identify the causes for the upper back pain, precisely. Even an MRI Scan or CT Scan will not be of much help. So, it is not easy for the doctor to find a surgical solution, if the pain persists for a long period.
Modern amenities are not without the accompanying problems. A poor posture over a period of time creates strain in a particular region and that region happens to be your upper back, in case you are a computer operator and work throughout the day in front of your PC. Neck pain and shoulder pain are the comrades -in arms -of the upper back pain.
Here are some more causes of upper back pain:
1. Lack of strength in the particular region.
2. Injuries and damage to the muscles of the region caused through repetitive motions i.e. working in a particular machine in a particular manner. Take for example, hand molding machines. On an average a person does 1500 hand-operated motions in a working schedule of 8 hours.
3. Muscle strains and sports injuries.
Here again. You have to understand your back pain. With the nature of your work known to you, identify the area of your upper back, which is mostly strained. Do such yoga asanas, which help to ease the stress in that area. Do regular oil massage. If this is done in a systematic manner, there would not be any cause for the upper back pain to happen.
Because upper back is a big area, and also ‘muscle junction’, you have to adapt to a system of doing several stretching and strengthening exercises.
If you get the upper back pain, do not panic. Avoid hard medications and painkillers at any cost. Even best of the hospitals, the renowned specialists, have understood the virtue of physio-therapy. Follow it now, for your suffering is due to your past failings and negligence!
Ashish Jain
http://www.articlesbase.com/advertising-articles/upper-back-pain-59683.html