Lower Back Pain
What is lower back pain?
Lower back pain can arise from a variety of injuries, conditions, or diseases, often caused by damage to the muscles or tendons in the back. The intensity of pain can range from mild to severe, sometimes making it challenging or even impossible to engage in basic activities such as walking, sleeping, working, or carrying out daily tasks.
At NeuroSpine Plus, we understand the impact lower back pain can have on your daily life, and our aim is to help you find relief and regain your quality of life. Contact us to schedule a consultation and let our experts guide you through personalized treatment options tailored to your specific needs.
What are the symptoms of lower back pain?
Lower back pain can be categorized as either acute (short-term) or chronic. Acute lower back pain typically lasts for a few days to a few weeks and often resolves on its own. On the other hand, chronic lower back pain lasts for more than three months and tends to worsen over time. Identifying the exact cause of chronic lower back pain can be challenging.
The following are common symptoms associated with lower back pain:
- Aching
- Burning
- Stabbing
- Sharp or dull
- Stiffness
Additionally, the pain may radiate into the buttocks, thighs, hips, lower legs, or feet. At NeuroSpine Plus, we understand the impact that lower back pain can have on your daily life. Don't let lower back pain hold you back from living your life to the fullest. Contact NeuroSpine Plus today to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards finding relief.
What are the causes of lower back pain?
Many factors can contribute to lower back pain. Here are some common causes:
- Strains and Sprains
The most frequent cause of back pain is strains and sprains. These injuries can occur when lifting heavy objects improperly, or even from simple actions like sneezing, coughing, twisting, or bending over.
- Fractures
Accidents such as car crashes or falls can lead to fractures in the spinal bones.
- Arthritis
Lower back pain can be caused by different types of arthritis. Osteoarthritis is the most common form, and it affects the lower back. Ankylosing spondylitis can also lead to lower back pain, inflammation, and stiffness in the spine.
- Disc Issues
Discs act as cushions between the small spinal bones called vertebrae. Bulging discs can press on nerves, causing pain. Discs can also tear, known as a herniated disc.
- Diseases
Back pain can be a symptom of various diseases, including spine tumors, infections, and certain types of cancer. Other conditions like kidney stones and abdominal aortic aneurysm can also result in back pain.
- Spondylolisthesis
This condition occurs when the vertebrae in the spine slip out of place, causing both lower back pain and leg pain.
- Spinal Stenosis
Spinal stenosis occurs when the spinal column becomes too narrow for the spinal cord, resulting in pinched nerves and severe sciatic nerve pain.
It's important to consult with a medical professional to accurately diagnose and treat the underlying cause of your lower back pain. At Neurospine Plus, we can provide an individualized treatment plan tailored to your condition.
What are the treatments for lower back pain?
The appropriate treatments for lower back pain vary depending on the underlying cause. These may involve:
- Medications
At NeuroSpine Plus, our medical professionals may suggest nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or prescribe medication to alleviate pain. Muscle relaxants and other medications might be recommended to prevent back spasms and promote muscle relaxation.
- Physical therapy
Physical therapists can provide tailored sessions to strengthen the muscles that support your spine. This helps improve flexibility and minimizes the risk of future injuries.
- Injections
In certain cases, our medical professionals may administer targeted injections to provide pain relief and reduce inflammation. These injections involve the use of medication delivered directly to the affected area using a needle.
- Surgery
While many instances of lower back pain can be effectively treated without surgery, certain injuries or conditions may necessitate surgical intervention. At NeuroSpine Plus, our team is experienced in a range of surgical techniques, including minimally invasive procedures, to address lower back pain when conservative treatments have been unsuccessful.
Lower Back Pain FAQ
Lower back pain can sometimes be caused by disease or structural issues in the spine, making it difficult to prevent. However, there are steps you can take to avoid injuries that may lead to back pain.
At NeuroSpine Plus, we believe in maintaining a healthy lifestyle and taking proactive measures to reduce the risk of back injuries. Here are some tips to help you maintain a healthy back:
- Manage your weight: Excess weight puts added pressure on your vertebrae and discs. By maintaining a healthy weight, you can alleviate some of this pressure and reduce the risk of back pain.
- Strengthen your core: Engaging in exercises that target your abdominal muscles, such as Pilates, can help strengthen your core. A strong core provides support to your spine and reduces the likelihood of back injuries.
- Lift with proper technique: When lifting heavy objects, it’s crucial to use the correct lifting technique. Instead of relying on your back, lift with your legs to avoid straining your lower back muscles. Remember to keep heavy items close to your body and avoid twisting your torso while lifting.
The lumbar region of your spine has a smaller number of vertebrae compared to the neck and mid-back regions. However, these vertebrae bear a significant load as they support the weight of your upper body and connect your spine to your pelvis. This area is subjected to frequent movement and stress, which can result in degeneration, injuries, and discomfort.
Lower back pain has the potential to extend beyond its origin and affect other areas of the body. It is not uncommon for lower back pain to be localized to one side of the back.
When lower back pain shoots down into one or both legs, it is often associated with sciatica, a type of nerve pain. However, it is important to note that this is not always the case. Various factors within the lower back can contribute to pain radiating into the legs, including facet joints, sacroiliac joints, muscular issues, or inflammation of the bursa.