Back pain is a common condition affecting everyone. In mild cases, back pain may subside with proper home care, such as adequate rest, warm compresses on the back, and muscle-relaxing massages. However, patients should seek immediate medical attention if persistent dull back pain lasts for many weeks and does not lessen even with rest.

Dr. Vu Duc Thang, a Level 1 Specialist from the Spine Department at Tam Anh General Clinic District 7, states that pain accompanied by tingling, numbness, or weakness in the groin, buttocks, or legs; sudden sharp, shooting pain; unexplained pain or pain following an accident; or pain with a high fever, loss of bladder or bowel control, could be warning signs of serious medical conditions. These conditions pose a severe risk to a patient's physical and mental health.

A herniated disc is a condition where the spinal disc pushes out through a tear in the annulus fibrosus. Patients experience persistent dull pain and discomfort in the lower back, buttocks, thighs, calves, and part of the foot.

Dr. Thang explains spinal health conditions to a patient. Photo: Tam Anh General Clinic District 7

Dr. Thang explains spinal health conditions to a patient. Photo: Tam Anh General Clinic District 7

Degenerative arthritis is often characterized by persistent dull back pain, a typical symptom of spinal degeneration. Patients may feel more pronounced pain during activity and relief during rest.

Sacroiliac joint inflammation is an inflammatory condition at the junction between the lower spine and the pelvis. It can cause pain and stiffness in the buttocks or lower back, especially when sleeping, sitting, or standing in one position for too long, bearing weight on one leg, climbing stairs, or running.

Sprains and muscle strains are injuries that can occur when a patient falls, performs sudden twisting movements of the back muscles, lifts heavy objects, or maintains a posture for an extended period. These injuries can also cause persistent dull back pain.

Beyond musculoskeletal issues, persistent dull back pain can also indicate stomach problems, urinary tract infections, kidney stones, endometriosis, or pregnancy.

Dr. Thang during a surgical procedure to treat a spinal condition causing persistent dull back pain. Photo: Tam Anh General Hospital

Dr. Thang during a surgical procedure to treat a spinal condition causing persistent dull back pain. Photo: Tam Anh General Hospital

After identifying the cause and severity, doctors may prescribe pain relievers, anti-inflammatory drugs, and muscle relaxants to alleviate symptoms. Patients may also be advised to combine treatment with physical therapy to reduce pain and improve back movement. Other therapeutic methods, utilizing high-frequency waves, radio waves, or ultrasound waves, target the painful back area to help reduce pain quickly and accelerate recovery.

Doctors will consider surgery if the condition is severe and does not respond well to conservative treatments. Currently, spinal surgeries have a high safety level, minimizing the risk of nerve damage and complications. For example, ultrasonic cutting systems allow bone structures to be removed using high-frequency ultrasound waves, without causing bleeding or damage to nerve root structures. Additionally, the C-Arm continuous X-ray imaging system during surgery assists in locating the bone requiring intervention to increase accuracy and ensure instruments are placed correctly, making the surgery safer.

Phi Hong