Many of us suffer from back pain, occasionally or every day. Though it is a common health concern, not all back pain is the same. Understanding the distinction between common back pain and a chronic inflammatory condition like spondylitis is crucial for effective management and treatment.
Common Back Pain: Causes and Symptoms
Common back pain is often acute, resulting from strain, poor posture, or injury. It typically lasts for a few days to weeks and improves with rest, ice/heat application, and over-the-counter medications. The pain is localised, and there are no systemic symptoms like fatigue or stiffness upon waking.
Spondylitis: A Chronic Inflammatory Condition
Spondylitis, particularly ankylosing spondylitis, is a form of arthritis that causes chronic inflammation in the spine and sacroiliac joints (joints connecting our spine to the pelvis). Here, our body’s immune system attacks the spinal joints and ligaments, which can also cause excess bone growth and bone fusion.
This condition often occurs with persistent pain, morning stiffness lasting over 30 minutes, and pain that gets better with activity rather than rest. Spondylitis may also lead to systemic symptoms such as fatigue, fever, and inflammation in other areas like the eyes. Over time, untreated spondylitis can result in reduced spinal mobility and fusion of vertebrae.
Key Differences
There are stark differences that would allow you to differentiate between the two conditions.
- Duration: Common back pain resolves quickly; spondylitis persists for months or years.
- Nature: Regular back pain is mechanical and is felt in bones, discs, or nerves. Spondylitis is inflammatory, accompanied with pain, redness, swelling, etc.
- Symptoms: Spondylitis often causes stiffness, fatigue, and systemic inflammation.
The Importance of Expert Evaluation
If back pain persists, don’t delay seeking professional help. Early intervention is key to managing inflammation and maintaining spinal health.
If you experience chronic pain or stiffness, especially with additional symptoms like fatigue, consult a spine specialist or rheumatologist. Early diagnosis through imaging and blood tests is vital to prevent long-term damage.
Non-Surgical Treatment Options
Spondylitis is managed through:
- Anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs) to alleviate pain.
- Physical therapy to improve flexibility.
- Non-surgical spinal decompression to facilitate the healing process for spinal discs and nearby tissues.
- Lifestyle modifications like maintaining a healthy posture and engaging in regular exercise are helpful.
Recognising the early signs of spondylitis versus common back pain can make a significant difference in treatment outcomes.
About ANSSI:
ANSSI Wellness focuses on improving the quality of life for patients suffering from spinal issues, aiming to provide relief where other conventional treatments have failed. Through advanced non-surgical spinal decompression treatment, ANSSI is committed to helping patients avoid surgery and recover in a safe, effective, and compassionate environment.
