Research from the Georgetown Health Policy Institute shows that approximately 65 million Americans have had back discomfort during the last three months. About 16 million Americans, or 8% of the population, are hampered by chronic or severe back pain.
The direct and indirect expenses of back pain exceed $12 billion each year, making it the sixth most expensive ailment in the United States, according to the report.
Disability benefits and time lost from work account for a significant portion of the condition’s indirect expenses.
10 Common Causes Of Chronic Muscle & Skeletal Pain
If you’re among the 8% of American adults who suffer from persistent or chronic back pain, it’s time to get your life back. Here’s some information that may lead to long-awaited relief.
- Muscle Or Ligament Strain (Muscle Inhibition): Stretching a muscle or ligament causes injury. It may arise immediately with an uncomfortable action or over time with recurrent heavy lifting or bad posture.
- Herniated Disc: Spinal discs cushion spine bones. A jelly-like disc may swell and compress a nerve, causing discomfort.
- Arthritis: Spinal arthritis causes inflammation, instability, and discomfort.
- Degenerative Disc Disease: Aging dehydrates spinal discs. This weakens disc walls, causing discomfort.
- Spinal Stenosis: Osteoarthritis narrows the spinal canal, causing spinal stenosis. Nerves are painfully compressed.
- Fracture: Trauma, such as a vehicle accident or fall, or osteoporosis, which makes bones fragile, and may break spine bones.
- Deformity: Scoliosis may cause discs and joints to break down, causing discomfort.
- Myofascial Pain Syndrome (MPS): MPS causes persistent muscular discomfort via trigger points. Lower-back trigger points are common.
- Gallbladder Issues: Gallstones may cause upper back pain. Gallstones cause shoulder blade discomfort.
- Fibromyalgia: Body-wide ache. Usually, the upper back.
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Problems With Standard Care & OTC Medications
Low back discomfort disrupts daily living; therefore, most individuals consult a doctor.
Ibuprofen and rest are the standard U.S. therapy for low back pain. Some physicians recommend physical therapy and mobility, which is a positive sign.
Medication. Long-term usage of over-the-counter drugs may harm detoxification organs like the kidneys and liver.
Dr. Zach Rosen states, “NSAIDs kill 16,500 osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis patients yearly. This doesn’t include all non-fatal NSAID problems. NSAID problems cost over $4 billion yearly.”
NSAIDs are over-the-counter. When treating a