It is a condition where the nerve roots are pressed upon due to a vertebral pathology. It is common in the neck region termed cervical spondylosis. Also ankylosing spondylitis is a condition seen in young males that presents with severe backache.
Symptoms
- Severe pain in the nape.
- The pain goes down one or both the arms upto the fingers.
- Tingling and numbness of fingers and along the arm.
Care
- Sleep on a firm mattress.
- Improve your posture. Stand and sit straight.
- Keep your back straight when working at a bench, table, ironing board etc.
- Keep a cushion at the small of the back when sitting in a chair or while driving.
- Avoid sudden jerky movements and overactivity.
- To lift objects from floor, kneel do not bend. Or bend at the knees and not at the waist.
- Regular exercise for back muscles keep spasms at bay. Lie face down on the floor with your hands behind your back.
- Hollow your back by raising hand and shoulders off the floor. Count three.
- Lower head and shoulders. Relax while you count ten. Repeat this for about 10 times.
- Massage your back once a week.
- Relaxation techniques, yoga and meditation help.
- A diet rich in calcium and multivitamins is recommended.
- In case of an attack of backache, go to bed immediately on a firm mattress and stay there for atleast 24 hours, getting up only to go to the toilet.