Lower back pain is a very common problem that affects millions of people worldwide. It can be caused by a number of things, such as incorrect posture, lifting heavy objects improperly, or simply sitting or standing for long periods of time. There are many treatments available for lower back pain, and the best course will vary depending on the individual and the severity of their condition.

Treatment

Some common treatments include physical therapy, massage, acupuncture, and chiropractic care. In most cases, however, lower back pain can be treated successfully with simple at-home remedies such as heat or ice packs, over-the-counter pain medications, and stretching exercises.

You can reduce the pain by icing your lower back. You should apply ice to the painful area three times a day, and wrap it in a towel to protect your skin. Do not leave the ice on longer than 20 minutes. In addition, you should avoid high-impact activities for six weeks to prevent further injury. Lastly, stop lifting heavy objects or twisting your back. You should also rest your back after icing.

A good stretch you can do to relieve pain is the knee-to-chest stretch. It will strengthen your lower back by working your core muscles. Begin by sitting on your heels, then bend forward at the waist and extend your arms over your head. While holding the position, round your back and inhale. Hold each position for five to 10 seconds, then repeat 10 times. This exercise can help you regain your range of motion and get rid of back pain.

The lower back, also known as the lumbosacral region, is the region between the bottom of the ribs and the top of the legs. The lower back is largely made up of the muscles that surround the spine. The spine is made up of several bones called vertebrae, which are roughly circular. Between each vertebra are cushioning discs. If one of these discs degenerates, it may cause significant pain.

While most people with nonspecific low back pain will recover after a few weeks, some will take longer. And some will suffer recurrences of the pain. Even minor pains can become chronic. Chronic pain means you will experience pain for months. While the first two cases are usually temporary, the last two types can be chronic. When your back pain has become chronic, you may need to see a doctor help you manage it.

Medicine

In addition to a medical diagnosis, a doctor may prescribe certain medications or treatments. A nonspecific back pain diagnosis is often a better choice than surgery. A doctor will ask you questions about your symptoms and perform a physical examination to rule out a more serious issue. In many cases, pain that is caused by a nonspecific condition can resolve on its own without any medical attention. If you do suffer from nonspecific back pain, it’s most likely a symptom of a more serious ailment.

Aside from painkillers, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and local heat applications can help to reduce your back pain. Your physical therapist may recommend physical therapy as an effective way to help your back stay active and prevent another injury. Massage therapy and stretches are also excellent ways to help relieve pain and restore function. The best treatment for lower back pain will depend on your symptoms and your doctor’s advice. So, do not wait any longer. Take action today.

Causes

Some causes of lower back pain can include a variety of medical conditions. Among these are osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis. A rare but serious disorder, cauda equina syndrome, compresses the nerves beneath the spinal cord and results in severe pain. Other conditions that can cause pain in the lower back include osteomyelitis or discitis, which are both infections of the bones.

Infections of the spine are rare, but should not be ignored if the back pain is accompanied by fever and chills. Dialysis patients, IV drug users, people with recent trauma, and individuals with a history of skin infections are at risk for spinal infections. Bacteria are the most common cause of infection in the spine. If you suspect this condition, your doctor will likely prescribe antibiotics. A physical examination can help determine the underlying cause of your pain.

Low back pain is often caused by a strained muscle or a bulging disc that presses on the sciatic nerve. This nerve runs down the spine and carries nerve fibres to the leg. In extreme cases, sciatica can lead to numbness or weakness in the affected leg. Ultimately, the pain is not caused by an injury but by an underlying problem. But lower back pain is an important condition to address.

If you experience low back pain that gets worse while you sit, you might have a herniated disc. In this case, the pain can radiate down the back of the legs or even into the buttock. It can also sound like a charley horse cramp. The pain may be sharp or dull, but varying degrees of intensity and duration may be felt. Acute back pain is likely the result of a strained lumbar disc, while gradual pain can be caused by osteoarthritis, spinal stenosis, or spondylolisthesis.