Backache and Neckache
Backache
The bony spine is a complex structure divided into two parts. An anterior or front portion consists of a series of vertebrae connected to one another by inter vertebral discs and held together by ligaments. The posterior or back portion consists of more delicate elements that form the vertebral canal through which runs the spinal cord. The stability of the spine is provided by muscles, ligaments, bony joints.
The parts of the spine that possess the greater freedom of movement are more frequently subject to injury. These are the lumbar region (low back) and cervical region (neck).
Backache may be mild or severe, sharp, dull or aching in character, persistent or periodic, radiating etc.
Causes of Backache
1. Lesions of the vertebra e.g. prolapsed disc, trauma, spondylosis, arthritis, cancer deposits, stenosis of the lumbar canal. In such cases pain increases with coughing, sneezing or stooping.
2. Lesions of muscles and ligaments e.g. strain, rupture, inflammation, contusion.
3. Lesions of the spinal cord e.g. tumor, syphilis.
4. Faulty posture.
Management
1. Complete bed rest on a hard bed.
2. Keep your spine straight at all times.
3. Local application of heat with a hot water bottle will relieve muscle spasm and pain.
4. Local application of pain ointments.
S. Painkillers.
Prevention
1. Regular spinal exercises, swimming, bicycle riding.
2. Correct sitting and standing posture.
Neckache
The commonest cause in middle aged individuals is spondylosis. The pain is located in the neck but may radiate towards the skull or to the shoulders. It may be evoked or enhanced by certain movements or positions of the neck and is accompanied by local tenderness and limitations of motions of the neck.
Causes
1. Neck muscle spasm
2. Ruptured disc
3. Degeneration of disc spaces
4. Whiplash injury after a road accident.
Management
1. Local heat
2. Gentle massage of neck muscles
3. Neck exercises
4. Muscle relaxant drug
5. Local application of pain ointments
6. Traction of neck by a physiotherapist
7. Use of a cervical pillow.
Neck exercises
1. Move the head up and down by slowly dropping the chin to your chest and then bringing the head slowly back up to a normal position. Repeat ten times.
2. Lean the head from the left side to the right side and then back to normal. Repeat ten times.
3. Slowly turn the head side to side and return to the normal position. Repeat ten times
Note: All exercises are to be performed in the pain free range only.
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