Blog

Most back pain will go away on its own, or with the help of a little heat and ice. But what do you do when your back pain just won’t go away? Should you stick it out one more day and see if it gets better, or head to the doctor?

The Most Common Causes of Back Pain

• Strained/ torn muscle or ligament: This is most often caused by repeatedly lifting heavy objects.
• Ruptured disk: Between each of the vertebrae in your spine are soft disks. Old age or physical damage can cause a disk to burst or crack.
• Arthritis: Arthritis is an inflammation of the joints in your body. Typically, arthritis is not very severe, but when it occurs in the joints in your back it can lead to a narrowing of the space around your spine.

You Should Schedule an Office Visit if:

• The pain is so intense you can’t sleep.
• Pain continues even while you’re laying down or not moving.
• Your legs become weak or numb.
• You suddenly lose weight.
• Your back becomes red, swollen, sore, or easily irritated.
• The pain is only getting progressively worse.

If you’re waiting to see a doctor, here are a few things you can do in the meantime to relieve your back pain:

• • Sleep on your side with a pillow between your legs.

• • Take frequent, short walks. Laying down all day can cause a stiff back to worsen.

• • Alternate heat and ice (each for 20 minutes) several times throughout the day.

• Maintain good posture when you’re sitting and standing.

If you suffer from back pain, schedule an appointment with one of the qualified physicians at Orthopaedic Specialty Group. As southern Connecticut’s largest and most experienced orthopedic practice, our team of spine specialists offer a variety of comprehensive, individualized treatment plans. If you live in Fairfield County, call us to schedule an appointment at (203) 337-2600.