Back pain has become one of the most common health problems of our time. Between daily stress, long hours spent sitting and lack of physical activity, our backs often pay the price. To take effective action, it is essential to understand the cause of back pain, recognize any warning signs, and know when to seek medical advice.

When should you worry about back pain?

It is normal to experience back pain from time to time after physical exertion, an awkward movement, or a long day spent sitting down. However, there are signs that should not be ignored. A medical consultation becomes urgent when:

• The pain persists beyond a few weeks despite rest;
• It intensifies with each passing day or wakes you up at night;
• It is accompanied by neurological symptoms (numbness, weakness in the legs, burning or tingling sensations);
• The pain extends to the legs or causes loss of urinary or bowel control;
• It occurs after a trauma (fall, accident);
• It affects people who are immunocompromised, elderly or have a history of cancer.

In all these cases, it is crucial to consult a health care professional.

What are the different types of back pain?

Back pain does not refer to a single condition, but to a range of disorders of various origins. It is generally classified according to its location:

Upper back pain

Pain located in the neck is often related to poor posture or prolonged screen use. This is known as cervical pain.

If the pain is located between the shoulder blades or in the upper back (rarer), it may be linked to muscular or visceral disorders. This is known as dorsalgia.

Pain in the middle, left and right sides of the lower back

This is the most common type of pain. It may be acute (brief, but intense) or chronic (lasting more than three months). This is lumbago.

Sciatica or cruralgia, pain is very often felt on the right or left side of the lower back. In the vast majority of cases, the sciatic nerve is involved. Pain radiating down the leg, caused by nerve compression. It is often linked to a herniated disc.

How can you tell if your back pain is serious?

A backache is not always benign. There are a number of indicators to keep an eye on, which may point to a more serious underlying cause:

• Sudden, very intense pain, without any particular effort;
• A blocking or twitching sensation that doesn't improve despite the usual analgesics;
• Morning stiffness that lasts more than 30 minutes;
• Significant loss of mobility or inability to walk normally;
• Fever, unexplained weight loss or persistent fatigue.

Pain can also be due to local inflammation, often caused by irritation, trauma or poor posture. Muscle spasms may then occur, accentuating the feeling of tension and limiting movement.

What illness could be behind back pain?

Some back pain may be a symptom of a more serious condition. This is why persistent pain should never be trivialized. Possible causes include:

• Herniated disc: The intervertebral disc (at right and left buttock level) moves out of its normal position and compresses a nerve;
• Vertebral arthrosis: Wear and tear on vertebral joints causes chronic pain;
• Ankylosing spondylitis: Inflammatory disease affecting the joints of the spine, progressively limiting mobility;
• Infection (e.g., spondylodiscitis): A rare but serious infection that can affect the vertebrae or discs;
• Cancer or bone metastases: Back pain can sometimes be the first sign of an underlying cancer;
• Abdominal aortic aneurysm: Sudden, intense back pain can reveal a life-threatening emergency.

What to do about back pain

Despite what you might think, it is important to keep moving as much as possible. Lying down or not moving can only compromise your pain relief. Rest briefly, then gently start moving again.

Lying on your back with your knees slightly elevated ( using a cushion) can also reduce the pressure on your lumbar vertebrae. In addition, gentle self-massage or stretching can help release tension. In the case of persistent pain, medication can help. Don't hesitate to ask your pharmacist for advice.

Should I apply hot or cold for back pain?

In general, cold is recommended for inflammation, i.e, following an injury. Heat can be applied once the symptoms of inflammation have disappeared. This will help relieve pain and promote healing.

In cases of chronic pain such as arthritis, heat is preferred. In some cases, we recommend alternating hot and cold treatments.

 

What is the most effective medication for back pain?

A wide range of medications and treatment options are available to relieve back pain. Here are a few examples:

Analgesics

Analgesics are drugs taken to relieve pain; that's why they're sometimes called "painkillers." They have no anti-inflammatory action. Acetaminophen is the best-known and most popular analgesic.

Anti-inflammatories

Anti-inflammatory drugs such as Ibuprofen or Diclofenac can help. They are sometimes taken orally, sometimes applied to the skin. They not only relieve pain, but also reduce inflammation. Some are available over the counter, while others require a doctor's prescription. These drugs may not be suitable for you or may interact with other drugs you are taking. It is always best to ask your pharmacist for advice.

Muscle relaxants

These are drugs that reduce muscle spasms and tension. The speed of their effect is often appreciated, as it allows muscle mobility to be restored. Most commonly used for acute pain (e.g., following an injury or stiff neck), these drugs are usually taken for a short period of time. The most common side effects are drowsiness and dizziness.

What is the miracle cure for back pain?

his may be disappointing, but unfortunately there is no miracle cure. Long-term solutions include staying active without overexerting yourself, maintaining good posture, and strengthening muscles such as those in your back, abdomen, and legs. A combination of good habits makes all the difference. However, if symptoms persist, we recommend consulting a health care professional.

What exercises can help relieve back pain?

First and foremost, we need to talk about prevention. To prevent back problems, you need to treat your back with care. Here are a few tips to help prevent or reduce back pain:

1. Daily habits and gestures

This category includes simple actions that you can incorporate into your routine to prevent back pain and maintain a healthy spine.

• Maintain good posture at work (ergonomic workstations, raised desks, etc.);
• Avoid prolonged stationary positions;
• Limit heavy loads (moving or gardening for example) or ask for help;
• Choose appropriate footwear (avoid high heels);
• Sleep on your back or side with good support.

These basic gestures can make a huge difference over time.

2. Adapted physical activity

Regular exercise is an essential pillar for strengthening the back and maintaining its flexibility. It should be practised according to your abilities:

• Moderate physical activity (walking, swimming, cycling);
• Gradual resumption after a painful episode;
• Personalized programs developed by a kinesiologist or physiotherapist.

3. Stretching and limbering up

Targeted stretching helps relieve muscle tension and improve range of motion. It is particularly effective:

• Before and after physical activity;
• To relax tense muscles (e.g., lumbar, hamstrings);
• To prevent recurrence.

A professional can design a stretching routine tailored to your pain or limitations.

Who should I talk to about back pain?

Several specialists can help you. Treatment depends on a number of factors and must be tailored to each individual.

• Physiotherapist: For re-education, strengthening and postural correction exercises;
• Ergotherapist: To adapt your daily gestures or your workstation to spare your back;
• Chiropractor: For spinal manipulations to improve mobility and relieve pain;
• Massage therapist: To relax muscular tension linked to stress or inadequate posture;
• Kinesiologist: To set up a safe, personalized exercise program;
• Acupuncturist: For a complementary approach to pain relief through stimulation of specific points.

For more information on back pain or for advice on how to prevent or treat it, talk to your Jean Coutu pharmacist or a health care professional such as an osteopath, kinesiologist, physical therapist, etc.