By: Peter Jaret
Your back may feel like it's killing you. It isn't. In most cases, despite all the agony, there's nothing seriously wrong. But there are a few symptoms that could signal real trouble. Call your doctor immediately if:
• You have low back ache accompanied by shooting pain down one or both of your legs -- you could have sciatica, which is usually caused when a ruptured disk in the spine presses on the sciatic nerve.
• You develop pain after falling or suffering any injury -- you may have fractured a bone.
• You have osteoporosis (age-related bone loss).
• You experience back pain accompanied by fever or night sweats.
• You've had cancer in the past, even if it's in remission.
Get HappyFortunately, most low back pain isn't serious. It almost always goes away on its own no matter what you do.
That's worth taking to heart. Unreasonable fears can slow that recovery and even lead to chronic pain.
If you're convinced that you've done serious damage to your back, check with your doctor. If not, it's time to recalibrate your approach. When you're in pain, it's tough to see the positive, but you need to set your sights on getting well.
Many back specialists are convinced that a positive attitude can help speed recovery. Sure, it's going to take time. On average, back pain goes away in 4 to 6 weeks. And yes, you're going to feel some discomfort along the way. But odds are you'll get better. Believe it.
Don't SufferYes, be active -- but don't seek out pain. There are several effective ways to ease the pain of an acute flare-up -- and it's important to take advantage of them fast. "The less pain you feel, the easier it is to return to everyday activity," says back expert Randy Shelerud.
Over-the-counter pain relievers
Aleve or Advil are a good place to start. They relieve the ache and reduce inflammation. Shelerud recommends taking them as directed on the package for the first couple of days after back problems flare up. If OTC pain pills just aren't doing it, talk to your doctor.
Ice/heat
Applying a cold pack or a heat pad doesn't do much for back muscles; the sensation of heat or cold simply distracts from the discomfort. But that's enough to offer many people temporary relief.
Massage
Recent evidence reviewed in the Annals of Internal Medicine in 2003 suggests that massage is the most effective alternative therapy to ease low back pain. In a study of 262 patients, those given weekly massages functioned better and felt less discomfort after 10 weeks than those who received either self-care advice or acupuncture.
Acupuncture
The evidence of the traditional Chinese therapy is decidedly mixed. Still, a Swedish study published in 2001 found that patients who received eight weekly acupuncture treatments fared significantly better than people who were given fake electrical stimulation as a placebo.
As for the rest of what's offered -- and there's plenty, from chiropractic manipulation and traction to hydrotherapy and special mattresses -- nearly all the studies on these therapies show no benefit. But if soaking in a hot tub or sleeping on magnets works for you, go for it. Just remember: The goal of easing pain is to allow you to get back to being active.
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