When Men Should Seek Care for Back Pain
By Randi Morse
When it comes to seeking treatment for medical problems, men are much more stubborn than women. Studies have shown that men put off seeking medical care much more frequently than women. While we could argue all day long about why men choose to forgo medical care, it is simply a fact that they do. If you have any of these warning signs, it would be a good idea to seek experienced care as there may be a more serious situation occurring than you thought.
It Lasts for A Long Time
It's not uncommon for your back to start to hurt, especially as you get older and the muscles and ligaments are not as elastic as they used to be. The first line of treatment when it comes to having a sore back is to rest and give the back a few days to recover. Using things like heat or ice packs, and over-the-counter pain medications, you may be able to recover without requiring any sort of care. If, however, you have been dealing with the same pain in your back or in your neck for at least two weeks, even if it's an intermittent pain and keeps coming and going, it's a good idea to get your spine checked out.
Sharp, Sudden Pain
In many conditions, back pain tends to come on slowly. This gradual pain usually points to some sort of alignment or muscle issue. But if you have back pain that comes on suddenly and sharply, especially if you have been involved in a fall or some sort of collision, you should be professionally examined. This pain may come from a variety of conditions, including whiplash, and proper treatment is the best way to recover quickly.
Other Symptoms
When your back pain has other symptoms that accompany it, you may need medical care. These types of symptoms include a headache, fever or chills, nausea, sudden weight loss, a tingling or weakness in your extremities, or a radiating pain that is in either your arm or your leg. While most back pain is due to alignment issues, back pain partnered with other symptoms such as these warrants being closely looked at.
I know it can be hard to visit a medical expert, but it's important to remember that treating patients is what these professionals do. It makes them feel good to help you, so the next time you're unsure about whether you should visit a professional, such as a chiropractor, for your back pain, don't hesitate to seek out proper care.
To learn more about your health, wellness and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Greenville, S.C.