Backache is one of the most common ailments. It has assumed staggering dimensions these days. It generally results from sedentary living habits and hazardous work patterns. Emotional stress, which brings about spasm of the muscles, may also cause backache.
The back, known as the life bone of the body, is a complex structure of muscles, bone and elastic tissue. The spine is made of 24 blocks of bone, piled one on top of the other. Sandwiched between these bony blocks are cushions of cartilage and elastic tissues, called intervertebral discs. These discs act as shock absorbers for the back. Mobility would be impossible without these discs.
Symptoms
In most cases of backache, the pain is usually felt either in the middle of the back or lower down. It may spread to both sides of the waist and the hips. The patient is unable to move and is bedridden, in cases of acute pain.
Most backache patients suffer from cervical or lumbar spondylosis. It is a degenerative disorder in which the vertebral bone or the intervertebral disc becomes soft and loses shape. As a result of this, the spine loses its flexibility.
Causes
The main causes of backache are muscular tension, joint strain, poor posture, incorrect nutrition and lack of exercise. The condition may result from acute or chronic illnesses like kidney or prostate problems, female disorders, influenza and arthritis. Other causes include stress and strain, sitting for a long time, improper lifting of weights, high heels and emotional problems.
Another major cause of back problems is lack of exercise. Modern conveniences have made office work easier. This can lead to obesity which puts a great strain on the back. When muscles are not exercised and remain weak, the chances of injury to them is increased manifold.