Lower Back Pain

Lower back pain can cause tremendous pain and stress as well as interfere with the quality of your life and your professional duties. Unfortunately, lower back pain is more common than you might think due to the fact that the lower back is particularly susceptible to injury during twisting, reaching or lifting. While this type of physical activity can cause lower back pain, other causes can include muscle strain and overuse of the muscles along the lower back. Illness and deformity of the spine can also cause lower back pain.
There can be varying degrees of lower back pain. Back pain that lasts longer than three months is classified as chronic while pain that lasts less than three months is known as acute. Back pain can also be recurrent, which includes a repeat series of acute symptoms. At its worst, lower back pain can cause disability.
Lower back pain can result in a variety of symptoms, which may include a sharp, dull or burning pain the lower back area or pain that is either confined to a single area or covers a large area. The pain may come on gradually or suddenly. Muscle spasms or stiffness may also accompany the pain.
Other symptoms may include leg pain, including pressure on the nerves in the leg, as well as tingling or numbness. The latter usually occurs below the knee. Weakness in both legs as well as loss of bladder control can also accompany lower back pain.
Lower back pain can be diagnosed by your physician with a physical examination. Imaging tests may also be required such as an x-ray or bone scan.
In some cases, certain individuals may be at an increased risk for lower back pain. These risk factors can include a family history of such problems, smoking, and a prior full term pregnancy. Men who are middle-aged may also be more at a risk for developing lower back pain. Certain medications, such as those that may weaken the bones, can also increase your risk for lower back pain.
Lower back pain can be treated with a variety of methods. Home treatment options include the application of first ice, followed by moist heat. Pain relief medications such as acetaminophen can also relieve symptoms associated with back pain as well as bed rest. If back pain worsens or persists, you should see a health care professional in order to determine whether more advanced treatment methods are necessary. These might include chiropractic care, massage, physical therapy, acupuncture, etc. In some severe cases, surgery may be required.

 
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