Written by admin on 2009-04-28T09:10:49+0000">April 28, 2009 – 9:10 am
Backache is pain, soreness, or stiffness occurring anywhere in the back. Backache is almost as common in children as in adults. Almost as soon as children are old enough to complain of pain and to explain where the pain is, they complain of occasional backaches. Backache may occur more frequently during adolescence.
Most back pains are the result of strenuous activities that cause stress to the muscles and ligaments of the back. These back problems are usually minor and often correct themselves without treatment.
More serious causes of back pain are infections and abnormalities of the kidneys; malformations and abnormal curvatures of the spine; a defect of the growth plates of the vertebrae (bones of the spine), called Scheuermann’s disease; compression fractures (usually caused by injuries); and arthritis.
Signs and symptoms
Backache caused by stress causes pain and slight tenderness in the muscles that run up and down either side of the spine. The pain is aggravated by bending and twisting, but it is less noticeable when resting. If physical activities are limited, the condition improves slowly day by day.
Backache caused by kidney problems often occurs only on one side. There may be other symptoms of urinary problems, such as burning during urination, frequent urination, or discoloration of the urine.
Backache caused by a sprain is limited to one spot near the spine or to a longer area along the spine.
Backache caused by a disease of the vertebrae or by curves in the spine (scoliosis) may also be limited to one spot near the spine or to a longer area along the spine. Some abnormal curves in the spine can be seen. Minor curves to one side or the other can best be seen with the child undressed and bending forward to touch the floor with both hands. Even a slight curve causes the back to appear lopsided in this position.
Home care
If there is no visible deformity, no fever, and no sharp pain in one location, home care is safe. The pain can be relieved with aspirin or paracetamol, mild heat from an electric pad or a lukewarm bath, and bed rest. If the mattress is not extra firm, a bed board under the mattress (a piece of plywood will do) helps relieve the discomfort. Have your child avoid any strenuous physical activity until the pain has been gone at least a week.
Precautions
• If the child has a fever, urinary symptoms, severe pain, or a sharp pain in one area, see your doctor.
• Do not use muscle relaxant medications on children unless your doctor has prescribed them.
Medical treatment
In addition to a careful medical history and physical examination, urinalysis, X rays, blood count, and sedimentation rate may be required. Specific treatment depends upon the cause of the back pain. In some cases, the doctor’s treatment may be the same as home care. Treatment might also include antibiotics, orthopedic exercises, a back brace, or even hospitalization and traction.
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