As we age, we become more prone to backaches. Exercising and maintaining good posture can help keep muscles strong and help reduce the chances of experiencing back pain.

Anti-inflammatories should be able to control the pain if it’s from stress or strain. But if you find yourself popping over-the-counter pain medication like it’s candy, particularly if the pain radiates down your legs, or you experience tingly toes, you may want to schedule an appointment with a doctor or orthopedist. With radiating, or “toe-tingling” pain, one of the spinal discs (the spongy rings that cushion the bones in your spine) could be pressing on the spinal nerve, according to a Yahoo! Health article found online.

Disc trouble needs to be attended to by a trained doctor. Not getting disc issues treated could risk permanent nerve damage. Treatment may include pain management, physical therapy, surgery (in severe cases), and chiropractic care.

Do you have a question about bones & joints, back pain, or spinal concerns? Check out EmpowHER’s pages. Sign-up, post a question, share your story, connect with other women in our groups and community, and feel EmpowHERed!

Resource:
Yahoo! Health: 7 Pains You Shouldn’t Ignore
EmpowHER: Back Pain: The Price We Pay for Being Human

Christine Jeffries is a writer/editor for work and at heart, and lives in a home of testosterone with her husband and two sons. Christine is interested in women’s health and promoting strong women.