~ Symptoms that should not be missed and what we do in our clinic
Many people suffer from back pain, such as "my back hurts when I wake up in the morning," "I feel discomfort in my back from sitting at work," or "my back is somehow heavy.
Actually,It is said that about 80% of Japanese people will experience back pain at least once in their lifetime... However, it is difficult to determine for oneself whether the back pain is simply due to fatigue or a sign of some serious illness.
In this issue, we will introduce the causes and treatment of back pain and what we do at Ikejiri-Ohashi Sera Clinic.
Classification and Causes of Low Back Pain
Low back pain can be divided into two main categories.
Specific low back pain (about 15%)
This is back pain for which a definite cause can be identified. Typical conditions include the following
- herniated disk
- spinal canal stenosis
- Compression fractures (especially in the elderly)
- Infection (e.g., spondylitis)
- Tumors (including metastatic spinal tumors)
Some of these conditions should not be left as "just back pain" because early diagnosis and treatment are critical.
Nonspecific low back pain (about 85%)
It is low back pain for which no clear structural cause can be identified. Muscles, fascia, joints, postural problems, and stress are often involved,Most cases resolve spontaneously and mildly within 4 weeks of onset。
However,If pain persists for more than 3 months after onset, it is called "chronic low back pain" and requires a specialized approach.will be.
Red Flag Sign“ requiring immediate medical attention.
If you have any of the following symptoms, you may be hiding a serious disease. Seek medical attention as soon as possible.
- Strong pain even when not moving.
- Chest pain.
- With fever (possible infection)
- Numbness or weakness in the legs
- Symptoms worsen over time.
These are the "Red Flag signIt is called "the most common type of low back pain," and is the most urgent case of specific low back pain that requires urgent attention.
Treatment of back pain depends on the cause.
Specific low back pain
hernia, compression fracture, or infection, respectively.Specialized treatment according to diseaseThe following is a list of the most common types of products that can be used.
If necessary, we will collaborate with other medical institutions to make a decision, including the indication for a full examination and surgery.
Non-specific low back pain
Basically, it is important not to "rest too much.
Excessive rest will rather delay recovery,It is recommended to be physically active to the extent possible to maintain blood flow。
Some examples of treatment include
- Use of analgesics (e.g., anti-inflammatory analgesics, muscle relaxants)
- Thermotherapy (e.g., hot packs)
- Orthotic therapy (e.g., corsets)
- Exercise therapy and stretching instruction
- Adjustment of living environment at work and at home
For back pain,The approach of the age of "healing while movingis required.
Examination and treatment at Ikejiri-Ohashi Sera Clinic
Our clinic carefully evaluates the cause of back pain and provides appropriate treatment through the following system of care.
Inspection
- Ultrasonography (echo) and x-raysto check for structural abnormalities and inflammation.
- If necessary, we will collaborate with other hospitals to perform a thorough examination, including CT and MRI scans.
Treatment
- Exercise Therapy by Physical Therapist: Ongoing exercise instruction is also provided as needed.
- Advice on living environment: We can also help you review your daily life, including posture, movement, and adjustments to your desk environment at work.
- Prescription of compresses and oral medications: useful for reducing inflammation and muscle tension.
- block injection: Mainly sacral epidural blocks are used to improve pain.
- trigger point injection: Approaches the myofascia and muscles to reduce pain.
Tailored to each individual's body condition and lifestyle,Optimal treatment plans and careful follow-upWe will do so.
Summary
While back pain is a very common symptom, it can also hide a serious disease behind it. Do not underestimate it, saying, "It will go away if I just leave it alone,Early professional evaluation is the first step toward recovery.
If you feel that your pain is not going away, or if you are worried about whether it will continue, please feel free to contact us.Don't keep it to yourself, work with a specialist to find the cause of your back pain and improve it.
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