Causes
Lower back pain can be caused by straining the muscles of the back. This occurs when the muscle is torn or overly stretched because of strenuous physical activity such as lifting or sudden movement. More often than not, the discomfort in concentrated in a particular area. Another possible reason for lower back pain is a herniated disc. The back is composed of discs called herniates. Herniates have a soft, inner core which can sometimes leak out because of injury. When this happens, pressure is exerted on the spinal nerve and cause pain and a tingling sensation which can be felt all the way down to the legs. Fractures or old age can also affect the joints that attach the vertebrae in the back. When the vertebrae slip against each other, nerves can be pinched and cause lower back pain.
Symptoms
The symptoms of lower back pain are dependent on the type of injury which causes it. The extent, location and kind of pain can be helpful in diagnosing the cause of the lower back pain. It should be noted that lower back pain is different from other medical conditions in that the severity of the pain often has little to do with the seriousness of the cause. Even the most simple muscle strain can cause extreme pain. One of the most common symptoms of problems in the lower back is muscle spasms and pain that can be felt in the lower back and buttocks area. It may also be difficult for the person to move. This particular difficulty can range from stiffness to not being able to move at all. With milder cases of lower back conditions, the pain usually subsides within two to three days as the area naturally heals. However, if the pain is accompanies by bladder or bowel dysfunctions or severe pains in the stomach, then it could mean a more serious condition that requires immediate medical attention.
Surgery
One of the ways to alleviate lower back pain is to undergo surgery. Surgery is not recommended for all types of back pain. It is only in severe cases that some people are required to have an operation to lessen the pain and regain proper motor functions during normal activities. Surgery is considered as a viable option for those whose nerves are pinched and thus cause pain to shoot down their lower bodies. Those with compressed spinal cords are also candidates for back surgery. Oftentimes, surgery is only given as an option after physical therapy and medication are proven to be ineffective.
Other Treatments
For those who choose to have a more non-invasive course of treatment, there are other options to treat back pain. Chiropractic treatment involves adjusting the spinal column to align the spine and lessen the pain. The idea behind the practice is that spinal dysfunctions cause other parts of the body to hurt so there is a need to adjust it. Another method of relieving lower back pain is through physical therapy. The goal of physical therapy is to increase the ability for motion by doing exercises formulated to reduce pain. Finally, medication such as an epidural steroid can be injected to decrease the inflammation on the back and thus, alleviate the pain.
Prevention
The key to keeping your lower back healthy is to make sure that it develops the necessary strength. This can be done by doing exercises and stretches that specifically target the back and abdominal muscles. By developing the body's core strength, the lower back is less likely to be injured. Another way to prevent lower back pain is to make sure that the proper posture is developed, particularly when lifting heavy objects.
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