Chronic Low-Back Pain in Children

Chronic back pain in children can be caused by several factors including strain, infection and overstress on the spine. Children with back pain should seek the attention of their doctors to define the cause and cure. Most chronic back pain that children experience can be treated with rest and less physical activity. As the spine develops and becomes stronger with time, children may experience back pain, although it is uncommon.

Identification

• Back pain in children is different than in adults because children are more likely to have an underlying medical condition that is the cause of the pain. Chronic back pain in children under 4 years of age occurs less frequently than in active older children. Any child with chronic back pain may complain of pain in his back, but he may also have additional symptoms that may not appear related, such as fever and weight loss. Weakness, numbness, trouble walking, pain down the legs, bowel problems, bladder problems or sleepless nights due to pain in the back are all sure signs that the pain may stem from another source that is affecting the back.

Types

• There are several common causes of chronic back pain in children. The most common are muscle strains, musculoskeletal strain, a tight hamstring muscle or a weak abdominal muscle. Scheuermann's kyphosis is commonly known as rounded back, which occurs when the vertebrae become wedged and cause a hunched back or rounded back. Spondylolysis is a stress fracture that occurs in the spine; this usually occurs in children who are involved in highly active sports. Spondylolisthesis is a slipped vertebra that occurs when the vertebra moves toward the vertebra below.

Prevention/Solutions

• Muscle strain, a tight hamstring muscle or a weak abdominal muscle will typically heal over time with rest and therapy. A child with Scheuermann's kyphosis may improve with a brace and stretching may ease the pain. Musculoskeletal strain may require an anti-inflammatory and therapy. There are a number of ways to treat spondylolysis such as anti-inflammatory drugs, a brace for the back, therapy and surgery may be required in severe cases. Because spondylolisthesis affects the vertebrae, it is important to stay away from vigorous physical activities. In severe cases, surgery may be required to stabilize the spine.

Consideration

• Oftentimes, a child who carries her backpack on one shoulder will develop back pain from the extra weight on that particular shoulder. Messenger bags that lap over one shoulder are also a cause of back pain in children. According to Nemours Center for Children's Health Media, adolescents should not carry more that 10 to 15 percent of their body weight on their backs. Children who regularly carry their backpacks improperly may develop pains in their necks and shoulders, as well as their upper and lower backs.

Warnings

• Children that are in physical sports such as gymnastics or football are at a higher risk of overly stressing the spine. Adolescent back pain is uncommon; during an adolescent's preteen years, the spine is typically strong enough to sport their activities. Adolescents in their preteen years who complain of back pain should seek immediate attention. Infections may also lead to back pain in children under 4 if their pain is accompanied by fever or chills please seek immediate medical attention.