Back pain is often a common symptom of many disease conditions and the back pain may range from simple or dull pain to sudden and sharp pain. If the pain persists for few days, it is acute pain whereas if continues for more than 3 months, it is considered as chronic pain. In most cases, back pain may resolve without any treatment however if persists for more than 3 days, medical intervention is necessary.
Back pain may be a common symptom in various conditions such as appendicitis, aneurysms, kidney diseases, kidney and bladder infections, ovarian disorders, pregnancy, nerve root syndromes such as sciatica, herniated discs, spinal stenosis, musculoskeletal problems, osteomyelitis, spondylitis, tumors, spine injuries, fractures, and many more.
Back pain can be alleviated with rest and RICE (Rest, Ice, Compression, and elevation) treatment, pain relievers, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, corticosteroids, and physical therapy. However certain conditions causing severe pain may require surgical treatment. Treating underlying conditions offer the relief from back pain.
One of the common causes for back pain is low back strain. Low back strain or lumbar strain occurs when the muscle or the tendon in the lower back gets stretched or torn. It is caused by lifting heavy objects or overload, sitting or standing for a longer time, direct blow over the area, or sports such as basketball, baseball, or golf that involve sudden twisting of lower back can also lead to strain.
The risk factors such as excess low back curvature, weak abdominal muscles, and forwardly tilted pelvis can increase the risk of this injury.
The common symptoms include low back pain that radiates down to the buttocks; inflammation of the soft tissues that surround the muscles; stiffness in the low back; restricted movements; inability to maintain correct posture; muscle spasms; and pain which continues for a longer period.
Your doctor will perform a physical examination and take a brief medical history to diagnose your child’s condition. Other additional tests such as X-ray and MRI scan may be required to confirm the injury and provide necessary treatment.
The conservative treatment methods include:
Some of the preventive measures which can help prevent back strain in children include: