Are you stymied by back pain? You’re not alone. Back pain is the most common cause for workers to miss work in the United States.
Low back pain is the leading cause of disability in people under the age of 45 years due to an increased risk factor which includes things we all do every day, like standing on our feet or sitting at a desk.
This pain ranges from a dull ache to severe throbbing, impacting your sleep, work, and overall quality of life. While the cause of back pain is often difficult to identify, the pain itself is more treatable than you might think.
Causes of Lower Back Pain
The causes of lower back pain, such as improper movement of the spinal joint, compression of nerve roots, or a muscular issue that pulls or strains your muscles, ligaments, or tendons, are often associated with the mechanics of the spine. common conditions that can lead to low back pain include:
Herniated Disc
Discs that suffer damage from overuse may bulge, herniate, and inflame. They can make it hard to stand up, impossible to lift your arms, and a simple sneeze could land you on your keister.
A herniated disc occurs when the soft outer ring (annulus fibrosus) of an intervertebral disk rupture and the inner gel-like (nucleus pulposus) material protrudes into the spinal canal.
The ruptured outer ring, now called a ‘bulge,’ causes the jelly-like center of the disk to press on nearby nerves, which can cause lower back pain, weakness, numbness, and other symptoms.
Spondylolisthesis
Spondylolisthesis is uncommon in the general population but has been associated with higher than normal incidences where abnormal alignment of the vertebral bones may increase the risk of spinal cord impingement.
While non-surgical treatment for Spondylolisthesis may include rest and medication, you may require surgery in severe cases.
Spinal Compression Fractures
Lower back pain can be a symptom of a spinal compression fracture (commonly referred to as a broken or cracked vertebrae). This condition is often severe and may lead to sensory and motor disturbances in the legs and ankles.
Trauma
Traumatic events can injure or dislocate your spines, such as car crashes, attacks, and natural disasters. If you experience lower back pain after a traumatic experience, you should consult your doctor for examination.
Spinal stenosis
Spinal stenosis is a condition that occurs when the spinal canal narrows and pressures the spinal cord and nerves. This can cause lower back pain, tingling, and weakness in the legs.
What are the Symptoms of Lower Back Pain?
Knowing the symptoms of lower back pain can help you manage your condition. Symptoms of lower back pain include:
- Muscle spasm
- Stiffness
- Posture problem
- Pinched nerves
While several symptoms are associated with lower back pain, those above are the most common symptoms.
How to Diagnose Lower Back Pain
Several diagnostic tests are commonly used by physicians today to deal with lower back pain. This includes:
- X-ray
- Bone density test
- MRI
- CT-scan
- Electromyogram (EMG)
How to Treat Lower Back Pain
An injury to the lower back or being overworked can cause debilitating pain, which may last for a few weeks.
Usually, these mild cases of lower back pain resolve with rest and over-the-counter pain relievers; however, you may require more advanced treatment for severe cases. These treatment options include:
Physical therapy
Physical therapists often help people with low back pain through a unique approach called the ‘whole person approach.’ Whole person approaches can have positive effects, such as stronger muscles and increased flexibility.
Medications
If you feel excruciating pain, your doctor may recommend nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and other medications to ease discomfort and prevent spasms.
Steroid Injection
Your doctor may inject steroids into the affected part to relieve pain and reduce inflammation.
Surgery
Your doctor may recommend surgery to treat your lower back pain.
We have almost all experienced low back pain at some point. Fortunately, many cases are short-lived, but they can significantly impact a person’s quality of life if symptoms linger.
Consult your doctor for an appropriate examination if you feel severe lower back pain.
