Is this chronic back pain?

Question

I've had this since I was 17, esp. noticed the pain in my college years. Now im 24. THe moment I get stressed, like even thinking about a deadline at work...my upper back in the shoulder areas start to "tighten up" and feel aching pain...almost like a tingling, slightly numbing sensation. I do get a massage every now and then, but I don't know if that's ever a permanent solution. What else can I do? Anything I can take? Some specific exercises? Thank you in advance!

Answer 1

Stress - one of the side effects of stress is increased muscle tension, which can lead to fatigue, stiffness and localised pain. Constantly tight muscles can create postural imbalances that may cause misalignment of the spine.

Lifestyle factors contribute to back pain

Most cases of back pain are exacerbated by lifestyle factors, including:

Lack of exercise

Being overweight or obese

Leading a sedentary life

Poor posture

Stress

Bad work practices.

Reducing and preventing back pain

In most cases, back pain can be reduced or prevented by making a few lifestyle changes, including:

Exercises regularly - to improve posture and increase muscle support of the spine. Try walking instead of using the car. Work towards doing 30 minutes of gentle exercise each day. This can be broken into shorter periods for equal benefit.

Lifting and carrying - when picking up a heavy load, squat down, hold the object as close to your body as practical and lift by using your legs, keeping your back straight. Get some help from another person or use equipment (such as a trolley) if the load is too heavy to manage comfortably on your own.

Maintain a healthy body weight - being overweight or obese puts extra strain on your back.

Be aware of your posture - consider your posture, particularly in seated positions, such as when driving or sitting at a desk for long periods of time. Don’t slump, keep your back upright and use support where necessary (such as a lumbar support cushion or footstool).

Take regular breaks - when driving, standing or sitting for long periods of time, take a break at least every hour to change the position of your joints and loosen your muscles. Include a short walk and a few stretches as part of your break.

Relaxation and pain management - learn some relaxation techniques to reduce stress levels and subsequent muscle tension. Try massage, heat or cold applications and gentle exercise. Seek advice from a physiotherapist.

Change your mattress - surfaces that are too soft or too hard can aggravate a sore back. Avoid sleeping on your stomach.

When to see your doctor

Most back pain can be managed at home, however, there are times when it is important to see your doctor to exclude any medical problems that may be contributing to the pain. See your doctor if you have back pain and any of the following warning signs:

You have severe pain which gets worse instead of better over time

If you are unwell with back pain

If you have difficulty passing or controlling urine

Numbness around your back passage or genitals

Numbness, pain and needles or weakness in your legs

You are unsteady on your feet.

Treatment

Treatment depends on the cause, but can include rest, exercise, medication and manipulation.

Where to get help

Your doctor

Other health professionals, such as physiotherapists, chiropractors, exercise physiologists or osteopaths.

Things to remember

Back pain is a common problem.

Back pain most often comes from muscles, ligaments and joints. It can be caused by injury, inflammation, tension or spasm in the muscle, ligament, cartilage or bone.

Staying active plays an important role in management.

Seek advice from a doctor if any warning signs exist.

Hope this helped.  :)

Answer 2

it sounds like tension (stress) i get that all the time too especially when i worry but i even get head tightness as well as neck and shoulders.If you get it more that 2 weeks, its considered chronic.