How to Treat Short Term Back Pain

Back pain will affect every individual at some point in their lives, whether it occurs as a result of an intense fitness regime or comes with age. The back contains an extensive network of muscles, bones, tendons and nerves, each of which is vulnerable to injury and subsequent pain without the right care. Here we explore the back pain treatment options available to those with acute or short term conditions.

What is the most common type of acute back pain?

Unlike chronic back pain, acute conditions are treatable and occur over a short period of time, however, despite many of these conditions ‘coming and going’ throughout our lifetimes, the symptoms are still particularly uncomfortable.

The most common type of back pain occurs in the lower back. The lower back is particularly vulnerable, however, pain affecting the neck and shoulders is also classed as back pain. Whiplash, frozen shoulder, ankylosing spondylitis, slipped disc and sciatica are also common conditions that result in short and long term backache.

The symptoms of back pain

“Depending on the type of back pain you are experiencing, there are a varying range of symptoms that can affect patients of all ages. Individuals may experience an increased level of soreness, tension and stiffness due to issues in the lower, middle or upper back. More chronic conditions may also result in weakness in the limbs, pins and needles in the arms, legs, chest and abdomen, and loss of bowel and bladder control.” Mike Squirrell at Harley Street Physiotherapy

Short term back pain treatment options

Whilst painkillers and hot and cold treatments offer some relief for short term back pain, i.e. back pain that lasts no longer than six weeks, physiotherapy is a great way to unlock better health, well-being and treatment. Regular physiotherapy sessions can also act as a preventative method for recurring short term back pain problems.