About Chronic Back Pain in Children

Back pain in children is rare, but some conditions such as scoliosis or arthritis may cause adolescent back pain. Chronic back pain should be brought to the attention of a child's pediatrician for further investigation into its cause.

Causes

• Back pain in children may be the result of juvenile ankylosing spondylitis. This condition is type of spinal arthritis. Another possible cause of chronic back pain is scoliosis, which occurs when the spine curves abnormally. Also, there is Scheuermann's kyphosis, which is a condition characterized by a rounded or hunched back.

Considerations

• According to the National Pain Foundation, back pain in children is rare. Parents should mention any complaints of back pain to their child's pediatrician.

Warning Signs

• Back pain that is accompanied by any of the following symptoms may indicate a serious medical condition: fever, leg pain, weakness, numbness, weight loss, bowel incontinence and bladder incontinence.

Diagnosis

• Back pain should be investigated further if the child is in serious pain or has other symptoms. Diagnosing the cause of back pain may include a physical exam, X-rays, bone scans, MRI scans and CT scans.

Treatments

• Treatments for chronic back pain may include medications such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications and corticosteroids. Back braces may be used to improve spinal curvatures. Also, physical therapy or chiropractic care may be beneficial. Severe cases of scoliosis may require surgical intervention.