Low Back Pain on the Vertebral Column: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments
What is lower back pain?
Lower back pain is pain that occurs in the lower part of the back, between the ribs and the hips. It is a common problem, affecting about 80% of people at some point in their lives.
How common is lower back pain?
The most frequent cause of disability worldwide is lower back pain. It is estimated that about 80% of people will experience lower back pain at some point in their lives.
What are the symptoms of lower back pain?
The symptoms of lower back pain can vary from mild to severe. They may include:
Pain in the lower back
Pain that radiates to the legs
Numbness or tingling in the legs
Weakness in the legs
Stiffness in the back
Difficulty moving or bending
What causes lower back pain?
Lower back discomfort can have a lot of various causes. Among the most frequent causes are:
Muscle strain or sprain
Degenerative disc disease
Spinal stenosis
Herniated disc
Spondylolisthesis
Sacroiliac joint dysfunction
Arthritis
Cancer
Infection
How is lower back pain diagnosed?
The diagnosis of lower back pain is usually based on a physical examination and medical history. In some cases, imaging tests such as X-rays, MRIs, or CT scans may be ordered to rule out other conditions.
What are the treatments for lower back pain?
The treatments for lower back pain vary depending on the cause and severity of the pain. The following are a few of the commonest treatments:
Rest
Ice
Heat
Medications (over-the-counter or prescription)
Physical therapy
Spinal manipulation
Surgery
When to see a doctor?
Here are some signs that you should see a doctor for your lower back pain:
The pain is severe or does not get better when treated at home.
The pain is accompanied by other symptoms, such as fever, weight loss, or numbness or tingling in the legs.
The pain is caused by an injury, such as a fall or car accident.
You have a history of cancer or other serious medical conditions.
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to see a doctor as soon as possible to get a diagnosis and treatment plan.
Prevention
Stay active. Exercise helps to strengthen your core muscles, which can help to support your back. Try to exercise for at least 30 minutes, most days of the week, at a moderate level.
Lift properly. Be sure to keep your back straight when bending your knees when lifting anything heavy. This will help to protect your back from injury.
Maintain a healthy weight. Your back is subjected to additional strain if you are obese. Losing even a small amount of weight can help to reduce your risk of lower back pain.
Improve your posture. Good posture helps to keep your spine in alignment, which can help to prevent pain. When you’re sitting or standing, try to keep your back straight and your shoulders back.
Use proper body mechanics. When you’re sitting, standing, or moving, use your body in a way that is comfortable and doesn’t put strain on your back. For example, when you’re sitting, make sure your feet are flat on the floor and your knees are bent at a 90-degree angle.
Take breaks. Every 20 to 30 minutes, if you’re sitting for an extended period of time, get up and walk around. This will help to keep your muscles from getting tight and sore.
Get enough sleep. When you’re well-rested, your body is better able to cope with stress and strain. Aim for 7-8 hours of sleep each night.
Manage stress. Stress can contribute to lower back pain. Look for stress-reduction techniques that are healthful, such as yoga, meditation, or time spent in nature.
In conclusion, lower back pain is a common problem that can have a significant impact on a person’s quality of life. There are many different causes of lower back pain, and the treatments vary depending on the cause. If you are experiencing lower back pain, it is important to see a doctor to get a diagnosis and treatment plan.