Back pain is a common problem. Almost every age group faces it. Although back pain in children is usually less than in adults, it can be a matter of concern for parents.
Dr. Puneet Girdhar, Principal Director and Head - Orthopedic Spine Surgery, BLK-Max Super Specialty Hospital explains that in most cases of back pain in children, the cause is minor strain or body posture. However, in some situations, the cause is damaging the spinal health, for which it is necessary to get it checked by an expert.
Common causes of back pain in children-
Muscle strain and overuse
A common cause of back pain in children is muscle strain or overuse, which is caused by sports, physical activities or lifting heavy bags. This pain is usually cured by rest, stretching and over-the-counter painkillers.
Poor posture
Sitting hunched over or using devices for long periods of time can cause back pain. It's important for children to understand the importance of maintaining good posture, such as sitting upright, using supportive chairs and taking breaks from screens.
Injuries
Falls, sports injuries or accidents can also cause back pain. This type of pain may be accompanied by stiffness, swelling or difficulty with movement. Rest and ice are usually helpful, but if the pain is persistent, it's important to see a doctor.
Spine abnormalities
Conditions such as scoliosis, which involves an abnormal curvature of the spine, can cause pain. This condition often appears in adolescence and can be identified during routine checkups. Early detection can help manage the condition.
Infections or tumors
Infections (such as discitis) or tumors in the spine can cause back pain. This pain is often persistent, and the child may also have other symptoms such as fever or weight loss.
Inflammatory conditions
Sometimes inflammatory conditions in children such as juvenile idiopathic arthritis can also cause back pain accompanied by stiffness in the joints. This requires ongoing management from a pediatrician or specialist.
When to worry?
- If back pain persists for more than a few weeks, a medical check-up is necessary.
- If back pain wakes the child up from sleep, it could be a sign of a serious problem such as an infection or tumor.
- If there is numbness, tingling, weakness, difficulty walking, or problems with bowel or urinary control in the legs, it could be a sign of neurological problems and medical help should be sought immediately.
- If fever or unexplained weight loss are symptoms accompanying the back pain, it could be due to an underlying infection or a serious problem and should not be ignored.
Expert opinion
Doctors say that in most cases, children's back pain is caused by minor reasons such as muscle strain or poor posture, which gets cured with rest and proper care. But parents need to pay attention to problems like persistent pain, neurological symptoms, or sleep disruptions. In such cases, it is important to consult a doctor immediately.
(PC: Freepik)
