Lower Back Pain

The lower back is the region connecting the upper and lower body, which bears all our weight and because of this reason, it is prone to injuries while lifting, reaching or twisting, if these activities are done carelessly. On the brighter side, lower back pain needs just some basic care, which the individual can see to and relieve the pain in a matter of weeks, in most circumstances. For more chronic cases, where pain is severe and extends to beyond a few weeks, it is advisable to consult a doctor.

Causes of lower back pain

Common cause for lower back pain is over use of the muscles and strain caused through improper bending and stretching which does not support the natural balance of the lower back muscles. Sports injuries, heavy yard work or lifting excessively heavy objects can also strain the lower back. Degeneration through age is another factor, as bones and muscles lose strength with time: the discs between the vertebrae provide less cushioning in old age and a bulging disc or a herniated one pressing on the nerves can result in lower back pain. At times, arthritis, compression fractures caused by osteoporosis (bone loss) illness or a spinal problem since birth can be probable causes too.

Symptoms and diagnosis of lower back pain

Usually, a dull, burning or sharp sensation felt at a singular point or extending over a broader area, coming on slowly or suddenly, with muscles spasms are common symptoms of lower back pain; they can be acute cases-lasting less than 3 months- if properly treated, or be recurrent in nature or even chronic (lasting over 3months). The diagnosis requires a full account of medical history, symptoms and the physical activity of the sufferer before the doctor can commit a serious cause for the lower back pain as X-rays, CT scans and MRIs are limited to cases of broken bones, cancer or an injury requiring surgery. Or, if the patient is considering a lawsuit for worker's compensation for lower back pain being caused due to any practice at the workplace.

Treatment of lower back pain and preventing recurrence.

In most cases of lower back pain, the application of ice for 5 to 15 minutes every few hours for some days is helpful. The patient could alternate with heat therapy, like hot water bottle/heating pad or a hot shower for a longer duration (15-20 minutes) for the next few days. Resting position during lower back pain should be sleeping on the side with a pillow between the knees with a couple of day's bed rest and then returning back to normal routine helps muscles to stay strong with walking being the best exercise for the lower back. Core stabilization exercises can be done gently which improve posture, keep your body's equilibrium at its optimum while lowering chances of injury too. Other safeguards include wearing low-heeled shoes, sleeping on a medium-firm mattress, avoiding lifting heavy objects and watching your weight-especially around the waist as this puts stress on the lower back.