When your back hurts, it ends up affecting your whole routine. Even performing small tasks like doing your laundry or climbing the stairs can be highly tedious if you get an aching back. It is imperative to always look out for yourself and take care of your health, but you should take more caution and consult a doctor when it comes to the spine. Back pain can occur due to multiple reasons.

There might be an underlying issue causing back pain, and once you identify the right cause, you can look for the right treatment and some home remedies.

Causes

Back pain can occur due to many factors. Causes like aging and arthritis can all cause prolonged back pain that can slow down your daily functioning. Once you visit your doctor and receive imaging of your back, you will receive a precise diagnosis. These are some of the common causes of back pain:

Aging

The risk factor for back pain increases as you age. Loss of bone and muscle strength can create a susceptible environment for back issues.

Lack of exercise or a sedentary lifestyle

When you don’t work on your muscles and ensure that they are flexible, it can cause back issues. When one puts on weight, it adds pressure to the joints, and subsequently, your lower back will hurt.

Arthritis

Osteoarthritis is a condition in which your lower back can get affected.

Damage disks

The disks in your body essentially act as a cushion between your bones, and damage to the ones in your spine can invariably lead to backaches.

Treatment options

Several treatment options are available for you. For quick relief, many turn to pain killers. These are not ideal if you do not have any relief from the pain in the long run. However, for temporary relief, there are many medication options available.

Over-the-counter medicine

Ibuprofen or Naproxen Sodium are nonsteroidal and anti-inflammatory pain relievers that can be prescribed by doctors based on the diagnosis.

Muscle relaxants

While these can make you dizzy; they are recommended if the over-the-counter medication is not effective.

Topical creams

Topical creams, ointment, and even pain patches can provide relief.

Oxycodone

When taken in moderation, this can provide relief for temporary pain and will not help in the case of chronic pain.

Physical therapy

Physical therapy can be a long-term solution for back pain. When you take the help of an expert, they will guide you to improve your muscle movements. The outcome can take time, but physical therapy can increase your flexibility and improve posture. The pain will not return, and the therapist will also give a plan of action when the pain flares up. With continuous therapy, you can take part in your daily activities without your back pain bothering you.

Surgical treatment options

Surgery on the spine is always a risky and intimidating procedure. Many safe surgery options are available with the scope of technological advancements in medicine and science. If you have unbearable and constant pain related to conditions like Sciatica, surgery can relieve nerve compression. When you have issues with the framework of your back, like dislocation or rupturing of a disk, surgery is the most effective course of treatment.

Home remedies

There are several home remedies that you can follow based on your back pain level. Some of them listed below can provide fast and effective pain relief.

• Heat and cold, warm compress
  Switching between the heat and cold compress for 10-20 minutes can relax your muscles and provide some much-needed relief.

• Exercise
  Exercise and take suggestions from a physical therapist on what to do.

• Stretch in the morning and evenings
  Basic stretching like touching your toes or the cobra pose can provide relief.

• Switch shoes, beds, and chairs
  Sometimes, you need to make lifestyle changes, as something as simple as a choice of footwear or the type of bed can cause back issues.