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Individuals should seek treatment for back pain

04.18.2012

Back pain is one of the most common physical health problems experienced. Estimates have indicated that up to 80 of percent adults seek treatment for back pain at some point in their life, making it the second most common reason for visiting a doctor, behind only the common cold. However, healthcare and wellness programs may be able to help people avoid spinal problems.

Nurse practitioner Leigh Montejo, who practices in North Carolina, recently wrote in the Clinical Advisor that many of the risk factors for back pain are modifiable. These include tobacco use, unhealthy eating habits, obesity, stress and poor body mechanics during physically strenuous work.

Montejo said that the risk factors for back pain are easily identifiable. Doctors can typically see clearly why a person is suffering from discomfort and recommend strategies for dealing with the pain. For this reason, individuals who are experiencing back pain should make an appointment with their doctor to find out what is causing their symptoms.

Despite the fact that back pain is one of the most common reasons why people visit their doctor, some experts say that spinal problems are actually underreported. Many people simply feel as though pain is a natural part of the aging process and their symptoms are totally normal for their stage in life. These individuals are unlikely to visit their doctor.

Some people may not be aware of the role medical professionals can play in resolving back problems. Most issues can be dealt with relatively easily. If lifestyle factors are not the cause of pain, other simple issues may be. For example, many people's pain is the result of tight muscles. Stretching exercises can help alleviate this pain.

Ultimately, healthcare and wellness programs that help people avoid obesity may be the most effective at curbing back pain. A recent study published in the American Journal of Epidemiology indicated that people who are overweight and obese are significantly more likely to experience chronic lower back pain.

The issue is very common but it doesn't necessarily have to be. By seeking treatment and help for chronic back pain individuals may be able to find relatively simple and non-invasive solutions to their back pain. Most urgent care centers can help individuals understand the cause of their pain and get started on the road to recovery.

Categories: Health and Wellness