Backaches
TYPES AND TERMS OF BACK PAIN
To learn more about specific types of back pain, it helps
to
identify the “type” of pain present, similar to a doctor visit when
asked, “Is it a stabbing pain or dull ache?” These are helpful
healthcare term associated with back pain
ACUTE – Most back pain sufferers fall into this category. With acute
low back pain, certain movement ranges for activities may be limited
due to pain. But most people recover within about four weeks on their
own.
CHRONIC – Also referred to as recurrent low back pain or when acute
pain episodes recur for more than three months. This is most generally
when medical treatment is sought. Note one can suffer acute and
chronic pain at the same time. As secondary health problems be
involved. In other words, chronic pain sufferers can be susceptible to
acute pain.
ONSET - When the pain began. Acute onset means it occurred
suddenly. Insidious onset means it gradually developed over a period-
could be days or longer.
DURATION / FREQUENCY – Some common questions asked with regards
to this area are how often does the worse pain occur and how long does
it last.
RECURRENCE – When the back pain occurs from time to time with intervals
of no pain in between.
PERSISTENCE – When the pain is always present.
LOCATION – A printed body diagram is usually used to that the patient
can refer to the place or location where pain is felt.
MOVEMENT – Where the back’s pain movement is located. Most generally it
is centrally located in the middle of the spine or an injury to either
side of the spine. Pain that reaches beyond, for example to legs, is
known as peripheral. Other terms associated with movement are twisting,
lifting, bending, straightening, arching, vibrating, sneezing, coughing
and posture.
ASSOCIATED SYMPTOMS – When discussing back pain, other symptoms that
can come up include, but are not limited to, itching, burning,
tingling, weakness or numbness, bladder control loss or change in
habit, nausea.
INTENSITY LEVEL – A verbal measurement used to quantify pain on a scale
rating from zero that signifies “no pain” to 10, referring to your
“worst pain ever.” Other criteria to help with understanding this pain
indicator are does the scale vary; i.e. does the pain intensify and if
so with each occurrence? And within what range on the scale?
Causes
of Back Pain
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This information is not presented by a medical practitioner and is for educational and informational purposes only. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read.