Back pain is irritating and one of the common reasons for absence from work. The symptoms of back pain can be uncomfortable and debilitating. Furthermore, back pain is regarded as the leading cause of disability worldwide. Herein, we put forward some critical aspects that need to be considered by people suffering from back pain.

Causes
Some of the prime factors that lead to back pain include strain, certain medical conditions, and poor posture:

• Strain
  Strain, tension, and injury are the most common drivers of back pain. Some of the common strain-related issues which result in back pain include strained muscles or ligaments, muscle spasm, muscle tension, damaged disks, injuries, fractures, or falls. Further, incorrectly done activities such as lifting something improperly, lifting something too heavy, or making an abrupt and awkward movement can also lead to back pain.
• Structural problems
  Several structural problems can also lead to back pain. These issues include a ruptured disk, bulging disks, sciatica, arthritis, abnormal curvature of the spine, and osteoporosis.
• Movement and posture
  Poor movement and posture across various everyday activities can also lead to back pain. Some of these movements include twisting, coughing or sneezing, over-stretching, bending awkwardly or for long periods, pushing, pulling, lifting, or carrying something, standing or sitting for long periods, straining the neck forward while driving or using a computer for long periods without a break, and sleeping on a soft mattress that does not keep the spine straight.

Symptoms
The prime symptom of back pain is an ache or pain anywhere in any region of the spine or around it. In certain cases, it can cover down to the buttocks and legs. Furthermore, back pain can spread to other parts of the body, depending on the symptoms and affected nerves. Sometimes, back pain relief can be achieved without any treatment. But if it becomes consistent and deliberate, and accompanies the below given symptoms, you should consult a doctor immediately:

• Weight loss and fever
• Swelling on the back or inflammation
• Persistent back pain that does not improve after laying down or resting
• Pain down the legs
• Pain that reaches below the knees
• A recent injury to the back
• Urinary incontinence
• Difficulty while urinating

Diagnosis
The primary diagnosis of back pain involves a review of the history of overall health condition, asking about symptoms, and physical examination. If back pain is a result of any injury or an underlying issue, your doctor is likely to recommend getting an X-ray, MRI, or CT scan done. He or she may even prescribe blood tests if any infection is suspected.

Treatment
The minor symptoms of back pain can be relieved with rest and home remedies. However, medical treatment is necessary for all the moderate as well as chronic symptoms.

• Home treatment
  Home treatment includes over-the-counter back pain relief medication. In addition, the application of a hot compress or ice pack to the painful area also helps in back pain relief. Besides, resting from strenuous activities also helps.
• Medical Treatment
  If home treatments fail to offer back pain relief, your doctor may recommend advanced medication along with injectables, physical therapy, and cognitive-behavioral therapy. On the basis of its symptoms, in various conditions, surgeries are also recommended.

Best foods and preventive measures
Addressing the risk factors helps in the prevention as well as back pain relief, and diet is one of the main parts. Hence, ensure that your diet includes enough calcium and vitamin D. Both of these nutrients are good for your bone health. Adherence to a healthier diet also helps in controlling body weight. Doing away with vices and incorrect postures can also help quite a bit.

In most cases, you are likely to avoid or prevent recurrence of back pain by improving your physical condition along with learning as well as practicing proper body mechanics.