Do You Have Back Pain or Neck Pain?
Back Pain Causes and Neck Pain Causes
Back Pain and Neck Pain Risks
Back Pain and Neck Pain Prevention
Care for an Injury
When to See a Physical Therapist
What Should You Do About Back Pain and Neck Pain?
Contact
Your back is made up of
- Bones – 24 vertebrae that support the body’s weight
- Joints – facets that guide movement of the spine
- Discs – separate the vertebrae and absorb shock
- Muscles and ligaments that hold it all together
Low back pain may be felt in the back, in the buttocks or down the leg. Pain felt primarily in the buttocks, leg or foot with very little actual back pain is often called “Sciatica."
Neck pain may be felt in the neck, the head (headaches), in the shoulder or down the arm. Often pain is felt primarily in the shoulder, arm or hand with very little actual neck pain. Neck range of motion may be limited.
Back Pain Causes and Neck Pain Causes
- Exertion or lifting improperly
- Poor posture when sitting, standing, bending, reading or working at a computer
- Injury or illness
- Osteoporosis or degeneration with aging
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Back Pain Risks and Neck Pain Risks
- Sitting for long periods
- Bending over while working including yard and house work
- Participation in sports without warming up and stretching
- Overweight and/or inactivity
- Poor posture while sitting, standing, bending or sleeping
- Wearing high heels
- Frequent airline travel or falling asleep sitting up
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Back Pain Prevention and Neck Pain Prevention
- Improve your posture
- Exercises to strengthen/stretch lower back, abdominal, hip, neck and shoulder muscles
- Learn how to lift, especially heavy objects
- Use proper bending techniques in all activities
- Learn how to sit properly
- Proper back and neck support for your car, bed, sofa or chair
- Lose weight
- Choose proper footwear
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Care for an Injury
Low back pain may require bed rest for first 24 hours and use of ice for first 72 hours. Recent medical studies indicate that staying more active is better for back disorders than prolonged bed rest. If your symptoms persist, contact your physician.
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When to see a Physical Therapist
Physical therapy should be considered when pain persists beyond 1-2 weeks or if you have had multiple episodes of pain over the past year. Physical therapy treatments will address risk factors, prevention and a home exercise program in addition to pain reduction treatments.
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What should you do about back pain and neck pain?
Discuss your concerns with your doctor. A physician referral is required by most insurance companies.
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Contact
Please call 865.305.6630 to find a University of Tennessee Medical Center physical therapy clinic near your home or work.
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