Chronic Back Pain Effects

Unlike occasional acute back pain that lasts for a few days, a chronic back pain episode can last three months and return sporadically. According to the Mayo Clinic, it is sometimes difficult to identify the cause of chronic back pain. Chronic back pain can have physical, social and psychological effects.

Physical

• Chronic back pain affects your ability to engage in normal physical activities. Chronic back pain treatment focuses on not only decreasing pain but also enhancing your mobility.

Social

• You may want to isolate yourself from others due to fear of further injury and frustration about your condition. This is not healthy. You need a strong support system of friends, family and physicians to help you overcome the pain and return to normal activities.

Psychological

• According to the Cleveland Clinic, chronic back pain is a mind-body disorder in which the mind can affect the severity of the symptoms. Dependence, frustration, stress and anger may worsen chronic back pain. Independence, joy and having a positive outlook can decrease the pain.

Muscle Bracing

• Muscle bracing is a common reaction intended to protect the back from further pain by tightening up the muscles in the injured area. This can cause severe muscle tightness, which could require additional treatment and therapy.

Treatment

• Pain medications, back braces, massage therapy, cold or heat therapy, exercise and physical therapy are all treatment options for chronic back pain. Reducing stress, staying active and adhering to your doctor's orders can also help relieve chronic back pain.