Almost everyone experiences acute back pain at some
point in their life. A trip to the doctor is often
an unfortunate result of a spirited soccer match or
ambitious afternoon of garage cleaning!
Most sudden attacks of acute back pain are the
result of overstretched muscles (strains) or ligaments
(sprains). The pain may be most severe immediately
after injury, or it may worsen gradually over a
few hours. In most instances, back pain as a result
of strain or sprain can be resolved following a
conservative course of treatment – usually
within two to six weeks - provided there are no
serious underlying medical conditions.
Identifying the cause of the pain, alleviating the
pain – either at home or with your physician's
help - and avoiding re-injury are key to the healing
process.
What Caused My Acute Back Pain?
Common causes of strains and sprains that can trigger
acute back pain include:
Improper lifting
Sudden, strenuous physical effort
Accident, sports injury or fall
Sleeping position and/or pillow positioning
Poor sitting or standing posture
Bending forward too long
"Hiking" your shoulder to hold
the phone receiver to your ear
Carrying a heavy purse, briefcase or
backpack
Stress and muscle tension
Physical conditions that
can possibly contribute to the onset of acute back
pain include:
