Paul’s Health Part A: Back Injuries
Paul’s Health
- 2018 – diagnosed with back ligament and muscle injury
- Three torn discs – one quite large
- Follow-up CT scan in 6 weeks
- Due to substance abuse history, prescribed muscle relaxant & NSAID
- Not receiving adequate pain management
- Tylenol #3 prescribed only when absolutely necessary
- Dispensing stipulation of 4 tablets each day
Back Muscle Anatomy
Back Pain
When to see a doctor:
- Persists past a few weeks
- Is severe and doesn’t improve with rest
- Spreads down one or both legs, especially if the pain extends below the knee
- Causes weakness, numbness or tingling in one or both legs
- Is accompanied by unexplained weight loss
- Causes new bowel or bladder problems
- Is accompanied by a fever
- Following a fall, blow to your back or other injury
Causes of the back pain
- Muscle or ligament strain
- Bulging or ruptured discs (leaking)
- Arthritis
- Osteoporosis
Which of these causes are associated with Paul’s case?
Risk factors of back injury
- Age
- Lack of exercise
- Excessive weight
- Diseases
- Improper lifting
- Psychological conditions (depression & anxiety will increase risk)
- Smoking
Prevention
- Exercise
- Build muscle strength & flexibility
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Quit smoking
- Stand- sit- and lift smart