Lower Back Pain – Causes And Treatment

Lower back pain is one of the most common medical issues experienced by everyone at some point in life. The pain and discomfort felt in the lumbar region may vary from mild to moderate to severe. Since it is very common, it is imperative to known about its causes and treatment.

Lower Back Pain (LBP) is a universal problem that is often experienced by innumerable people. Luckily, LBP gets better after some time, but if it persists, it is essential to seek medical helps as soon as possible.

People with LBP complain dull aching pain associated with shooting or stabbing sensation. Acute LBP usually comes on abruptly after a mechanical injury, fall, or heavy lifting. Pain and discomfort persisting for more than two or three months is often considered chronic. However, if your suffering doesn’t subside within 72 hours, it is recommended to consult a doctor immediately. Chronic LBP may make one’s life difficult, as the pain and stiffness disallows him/her from performing daily chores.

Lower Back Pain Causes

One of the most common causes of back pain is injury to muscles or ligament due to sprain or strain. Sprains and strains may occur from various reasons, such as bad posture, improper lifting, inappropriate way of exercising, and lack of regular physical activity. Obesity is another common cause that can increase the risk of lumbar pain.

Chronic LBP may also result from severe injuries to spinal column (vertebrae fracture), ruptured disc, etc. Apart from injuries. LBP can also be due to rheumatic conditions such as arthritis and age-related degenerative diseases of spine, and infections. Some of the common causes of back pain are as follows –

•          Lumbar disc herniation
•          Osteoarthritis
•          Rheumatoid Arthritis
•          Ankylosing Spondylitis
•          Osteoporosis
•          Osteomyelitis
•          Fibromyalgia
•          Bad posture
•          Sciatica
•          Scoliosis
•          Paget’s disease
•          Spinal facture
•          Spinal Stenosis

Lower Back Pain Treatment

Back pain relief management depends on the type and complexity of pain and stiffness, and patient’s history and susceptibility. Majority of the cases get better within few days of treatment, without any surgical intervention. The most important treatment plan for lower back pain is physiotherapy exercise.

If lower backpain worsens, physicians recommend therapeutic medications and/or surgical procedures.

Bed rest – Bed rest is an essential part of lower back pain treatment, because stopping physical activity during pain allows the affected tissue and nerve roots to heal. However, excessive rest can lead to muscle weakness. People who lead sedentary lifestyle are more vulnerable to recurrent back pain.

Hot or cold fomentation – Applying heat or cold to back may reduce inflammation. Some may prefer cold, while some hot. However, it is advised to use both, alternatively.

Oral medications – There are many prescription and OTC medicines for pain available in the market to overcome back pain. It is important to use strong painkillers only after consulting a medical professional. Generic Tylenol (Acetaminophen), Generic Naprosyn (Naproxen) and Generic Feldene (Piroxicam) are few best OTC back pain medicines. They work by eradicating inflammation and pain.

Exercises For Back Pain Relief

Lumbar exercise is an important element for people with lower back pain. Mild aerobic exercises, stretching and strength training workouts are enough to strengthen back muscles and improve flexibility. One should do them under the supervision of a physical therapist or gym trainer.