Back Disorders
(Backache · Back Pain)
In this condition factsheet:
Diagnosing Back Disorders
Your doctor may do one of the following tests for underlying medical problems:
- a back x-ray
- bone scans
- computed tomography (CT) scan, in which computers combine many pictures to show a very detailed view of the back
- magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), a type of scan that uses electromagnetic waves to visualize soft tissue
Your doctor will likely examine your back for any deformity, redness, or rash. If you have nerve pain, they will likely examine the function of the spinal cord by testing your reflexes, strength, and ability to feel sensation. X-rays can show problems with the vertebrae, but not with the soft tissues such as discs, ligaments, or muscles. Bone scans can help your doctor screen for abnormal areas, which are further investigated with other tests.
CT scans can diagnose arthritis and spinal stenosis and other bone changes, but not always a herniated disc. MRI can show soft tissue, including discs, nerves, the spinal cord, and tumours.
Treating and Preventing Back Disorders
Anti-inflammatory medications, pain relievers, stabilization exercises, and rest are common treatments for mild to moderate back pain. Using heat and cold may help relieve acute muscle spasms. Surgery, bed rest, and medications have been used to treat severe back disorders without much success. Doctors now know that long periods without exercise can make back disorders worse: it weakens the muscles, increases the risk of blood clots, and makes it harder to get back to doing normal activities.
As soon as the most severe pain goes away, back disorders should be treated with daily exercises to improve general fitness, as well as with exercise routines geared to the specific back problem. Your doctor or physiotherapist should provide a personalized exercise routine for back problems. Brisk walking, cycling, and swimming are excellent exercises for people with bad backs. Also helpful are exercises that strengthen abdominal and core muscles, such as sit-ups and planks. A health care professional can also provide instruction about proper lifting techniques to minimize stress on the back.
Your doctor may advise you to lose weight, which may also ease some back problems.
All material copyright MediResource Inc. 1996 – 2024. Terms and conditions of use. The contents herein are for informational purposes only. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Source: www.medbroadcast.com/condition/getcondition/Back-Disorders
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