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| Simple steps to deal with back pain |
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At one point or another almost everyone develops low back pain. If it happens to you, don’t assume the worst. Low back pain usually gets better on its own within a few weeks. In the meantime, try to stay active.
If you’re worried about hurting your back, you might want to stay in bed and avoid moving until the pain goes away. Unfortunately, too much bed rest can weaken your muscles and actually delay your recovery.
If you need them, a variety of over-the-counter, nonprescription medicines is available to help ease back pain. The most commonly used pain relievers are acetaminophen (Tylenol®) and anti-inflammatory drugs, such as ibuprofen (Advil® or Motrin®) and naproxen (Aleve®). Be sure to follow the instructions on the medicine label.
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When Should You See a Doctor?
You might be wondering if you should see a doctor to find out what’s causing your back pain.
You should call your doctor if:
- Your pain has not improved after one or two days, and you cannot do your normal daily activities
- Your mild-to-moderate back pain continues after two weeks of managing it with pain relievers and light activity
- You develop new pain, numbness, or weakness in the legs, change in bladder or bowel function, fever or other new symptoms.
Your health plan can help you deal with back pain.
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| Myths and Facts about Back Pain |
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Three out of four adults experience back pain during their lives. If you are one of them, here are some myths and facts about back pain.
Myth: Most back problems eventually require surgery.
Fact: Fewer than one person in 1,000 will need it. Some people who have surgery end up doing no better than people who don’t.
Myth: If you have back pain, you should have an MRI.
Fact: Having an MRI every time you have back pain is like having a chest X-ray every time you have a cold. It’s usually unnecessary. You may need an MRI if you’ve had pain for six weeks or have additional symptoms, such as numbness in a limb or loss of
bladder or bowel control.
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Myth: Back pain is a serious problem — something to fear.
Fact: Most low back pain is caused by sprains or strains that heal on their own. Usually, your back will feel better with a short bit of rest, some simple exercises and pain medicine.
Myth: Back pain won’t go away and will eventually be crippling.
Fact: Of the roughly 6.5 million people treated for low back pain each day in the U.S., almost all recover completely — free of pain and disability.
Myth: If my back hurts, I can’t go to work or do other activities.
Fact: Inactivity is your enemy; it weakens your muscles and stiffens your joints just when you need strength and flexibility. In fact, people who remain active and engage in routine activities tend to get better faster than those who don’t.
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