A doctor spoke about the causes and treatment of back pain

Back pain is a signal from the body, to which it is important to react in time. Motor activity and emotional stability are important for its prevention. Anna Terekhova, neurologist, algologist, head of the chronic pain treatment center of JSC "Medicine" (clinic of academician Roitberg), told "Izvestia" on December 16.

She said that prolonged stay in an uncomfortable posture, sudden movements and improper lifting of weights can damage back tissues and cause pain. Also pain can indicate spinal tumors, osteoporosis, it can provoke infectious lesions of the body, inflammation and diseases of internal organs, said Terekhova.

To prevent back pain, the doctor advised, first of all, to observe the movement regime. According to her, for this purpose it is important to avoid prolonged stay in one position, it is necessary to learn to lift weights correctly and work on posture, as well as to sleep in the correct position without the position on the stomach.

In addition, physical therapy can help strengthen muscles and support the spine, while joint exercises prevent discomfort and pain, Terekhova said.

"Emotional stress can also provoke back pain. People prone to anxiety, depression and pessimism feel pain more acutely. The reason is that stress hormones cause muscle spasms, increasing discomfort," she said.

The doctor urged not to self-medicate in case of pain, but to consult a neurologist or orthopedist. The expert named fever, pain that increases at rest or at night, sudden weight loss and a history of cancer as alarming symptoms for immediate referral to a specialist.

For medication, NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), myorelaxants, B vitamins, sedatives and anticonvulsants are used. Local methods of treatment include ointments, gels with analgesic effect, patches with active components. Doctors also prescribe injection blockade procedures to relieve severe pain, Terekhova said.

"It is important not to delay treatment: acute pain syndrome without proper therapy can become chronic. European recommendations state that bed rest should not exceed three days. Already on the third day the patient is recommended to move, avoiding excessive loads and sudden movements", - concluded the expert.

Earlier, on November 7, the head of the department of physiotherapy and physical therapy, chiropractor and osteopath of the European Medical Center (EMC) Ilya Mikhalenko told "Izvestia" about how to properly organize the workspace to preserve the health of the back. Thus, he advised to place the monitor in front of the eyes, and to direct the gaze when working just below the horizon line, which will help relieve the neck and neck muscles.