Back Pain and Cough, the bond

Back pain after a coughing fit?

Even though we often tend to pay little attention to it, the back constitutes an essential part of our body, and we only realize its importance when it starts to hurt. If you've experienced back pain following a coughing fit, reading this article might be helpful for you.

The coughing fit involves a deep inhalation followed by a strong and rapid exhalation. To carry out this action, the muscles in the back are suddenly and intensely engaged. Coughing causes a rapid contraction of the abdominal muscles and the diaphragm, followed by an explosive release of air through the respiratory passages. This increase in pressure within the abdomen and chest puts a strain on the back muscles, which have to bear the weight and stabilize the spine. This is why back pain can occur when the effort of coughing becomes too intense.

Back pain should not be neglected as it may in some cases be indicative of a pathology of the respiratory system, in particular:

• Bronchitis: bronchitis is an inflammation of the mucous membrane lining the bronchi, which are the tubes through which air continuously enters and exits our lungs. Typically, this condition manifests with a severe cough and significant compromise of the respiratory passages. When suffering from bronchitis, inflammation of the bronchi can extend to the surrounding tissues, including the muscles and joints of the back. This can cause pain and discomfort in the dorsal area. Back pain during bronchitis is not uncommon but rather a possible consequence of bronchial inflammation and irritation.
• Pneumonia: pneumonia is an acute inflammation of the lungs, usually of infectious origin. It can develop at any time of the year, with a higher incidence in cold seasons, especially in conjunction with the viral forms typical of those periods. Back pain in the case of pneumonia is often caused by excessive strain due to coughing. The pain is almost always felt in the final phase of coughing, the expiratory phase when air is expelled from the mouth.

The cough is therefore a natural response of the body that is activated to eliminate irritants from the respiratory tract. It is therefore the natural way of the body to get rid of mucus and impurities, but this effort can exert pressure on the muscles of the back, especially those in the lumbar region.

When pain manifests in the lumbar region of the back.

Lumbar back pain is a condition characterized by pain and limited mobility involving the lower part of the back, located between the dorsal area, composed of twelve ribs, and the sacrum.

It is important to emphasize that the pain in the lumbar area can be caused not only by the effort of coughing but is often influenced by the posture adopted by the body when not feeling well, especially if there are pre-existing motor difficulties.

The coughing fit, combined with a sudden flexion of the trunk, can be the triggering event leading to the onset of lumbar pain and, consequently, a temporary blockage of the back.

When pain manifests in the cervical and dorsal region of the back. Inizio modulo

When we cough, we involve the neck muscles to keep the head stable and support the movement. If these muscles are weak or fatigued, coughing can increase pressure on the top of the spine, causing pain and tension in the cervical area.

Frequent and intense coughing may also involve the dorsal tract, which includes the vertebrae from the neck area to the lower back. This action can put a strain on the dorsal muscles, responsible for supporting the upper body and maintaining a correct posture. If these muscles are weak or overloaded, the abrupt movement and additional pressure caused by the cough can generate pain and inflammation in the dorsal region.

How can back pain caused by coughing be prevented?

Prevention is effective when it is implemented before any coughing conditions occur. Maintaining a healthy diet, stable body weight, and regular physical activity are all aspects that contribute to overall well-being and, in the event of potential bed rest, preserve the health of the back for an extended period.

During the bed rest period, it is advisable to avoid remaining in the supine position for too long. In the case of sitting in bed, it is recommended to place two pillows in the lumbar area to support the back and maintain a more upright posture. This position not only promotes better posture but can also facilitate the subject's breathing.

Cough: natural remedies and treatments Inizio modulo

• Honey: it has soothing properties and can help calm cough. It can also be given to children over one year old - provided they are not allergic - by mixing a teaspoon of honey in a cup of hot water or lemon tea.
• Mallow: a plant known for its soothing properties for the throat and can be used to prepare infusion.
• Linden and chamomile: two plants that help alleviate throat irritation and soothe cough.
• Natural syrup based on Manuka honey, organic wildflower honey and plant molecular complexes: to calm the cough, both dry and big, and fluidify the excess mucus, favoring its expulsion.

How to improve the condition of the back

• Practicing specific stretching exercises can help relax the muscles of the back and abdomen, reducing the tension and pain associated with coughing.
• Strengthening the muscles of the back and abdomen can provide greater support to the spine, decreasing the risk of injuries or pain during coughing. A physiotherapist can customize a targeted exercise program to strengthen weak muscles and improve posture, adapting it to your specific needs.
• Physiotherapy can incorporate relaxation techniques such as therapeutic massage or manual therapy. These methodologies are aimed at reducing muscle tension, promoting better blood circulation, and stimulating the healing process.

In case of continuous and persistent back pain, it is always advisable to consult a healthcare professional for an assessment. A doctor will be able to examine the symptoms, take the patient's medical history, and, if necessary, prescribe diagnostic tests to clearly identify the underlying cause of the pain.