Aches and pains are a part of life for many people, and farmers are no exception.
While some pains be treated effectively with over-the-counter pain killers, heating pads and ice packs, there at those pains that simply will not go away; and for those suffering from persistent back pain, the pain could be much more than a simple irritation.
Dr. Sadie Ochs Giedd, DO., of Mercy Clinic Pain Management in both Springfield and Lebanon, Mo., said persistent pain can be caused by conditions such a pinched nerve, a bulging or herniated disk, arthritis, cancer or degenerative joint disease, also known as osteoarthritis.
“It could be more than just a (muscle strain),” she said. “We need to find the cause of the problem and rule out some of those things that aren’t causing the pain.”
Giedd said starting off with a few simple tests, such as x-rays or other imaging tests (CT scans or MRIs) and possibly blood work, can get patients on the road to recovery, so the symptoms should not be ignored.
When is the right time to seek treatment?
For people who are suffering from back pain, Giedd said if the symptoms have continued for three months or more, it is time to seek treatment. The pain also does not have to be constant in order to seek treatment.
“If it is affecting your daily living and your daily activities, it could be more than a stain or a pulled muscle,” she added. “The most important part is getting to the cause of the problem.”
For those who are experiencing issues such as muscle weakness, Giedd said treatment should be sought within six weeks of the appearance of symptoms.
Without treatment, the issues and the cause of the pain will only continue, possibly making the cause worse and impacting the afflicted person’s quality of life.
“If we don’t have positive correction, the pain will not go away,” Giedd said. “You are actually causing more wear and tear by not seeking treatment. … Even the vibration of riding a tractor seat all day is very hard on your disks and spine.”
She added that long-term repetitive motion can cause issues such as degenerative joint disease. There is no cure for degenerative joint disease. Without treatment or lifestyle changes, the disorder will get progressively worse.
A fall or a hit can cause spine fractures and other debilitating issues, so Giedd recommended that those who suffer trauma to their back and spine to seek medical treatment.
Does a back problem mean I will have to have surgery?
Today, back pain and ailments can be treated with a variety of therapies, including physical therapy, posture correction, medication, steroid therapy or a combination of treatments.
Surgery is often a last resort.
For those who might contend that they simply don’t have time to seek proper treatment for their back aliment, Giedd said the longer the problem is ignored, the longer the patient will be in pain, and possibly causing more damage.
Age should also not be a factor when considering treatement for back and spine issues. Pinched nerves, disk issues and arthritis can impact anyone or any age.
Giedd said she treats patients in their 20s and 30s for arthritis and other pain-related issues.
What’s the first step
The first step in getting treatment is an appointment with a primary care physician, who can begin the evaluation and make referrals to specialists.
