Back pain affects most people at some point in their lives and, although many attacks disappear within a few weeks, recurring episodes can compromise basic daily activities. Data from the Global Burden of Disease study indicate that cases of low back pain are expected to grow by more than a third between 2020 and 2050, reaching more than 10% of the world’s population.
The lumbar region is most affected by sustaining movements and tensions, but there are also frequent complaints in the neck and shoulders. Experts highlight that the correct diagnosis must precede any treatment, as the causes range from muscle injuries to kidney disease, inflammation and even cancer.
Physical exams, medical history, blood tests, and imaging tests help identify the source of the problem. According to surgeon Areena D’souza, “a child’s spine sometimes grows much faster than the rest of the bones”, which can also cause pain in young patients. Therefore, medical guidelines recommend staying active and adopting approaches that consider body and mind, avoiding long periods of rest.