Lower Back Pain

by Jeff S. Keep moving

Lower back pain is also known as “lumbago” is the pain felt in the lower portion of the lumbar area. It is commonly a muscular-skeletal in nature. It can be categorized as acute, sub-acute and chronic based on its duration. It is believed that the cause of this pain arises due to muscles sprain or strain. A sprain is an injury that affects the muscles or tissues that connects the muscles to the bones. A strain, on the other hand, is a damage on the tendons or ligaments and the cartilages that connect bones to bones.

Over exhaustion during strenuous activity can damage or tear some muscles and its connective tissues on the back resulting to back pain. There are also certain conditions that can induce pain in the lower part of the spine. Conditions like a slipped spinal disc, herniated or tear disc can also cause pain. Injury and trauma during an accident can also contribute pain on the back. Some people also suffer from coccydynia or the pain in the coccyx or the tailbone, the very end part of the vertebrae. Due to the aging process, the durability and strength of the vertebrae also diminish.

The most common cause of lower back pain is using the back muscles in certain activities like lifting and bending. Poor posture can also contribute to aggravating the condition. Certain exercises and activities are used in alleviating the pain. In lifting, bend your knees and use your abdominal muscles rather than using your back. Placing a rolled towel on the lower area of the back can also provide comfort and soothe the pain. Alternating positions like from sitting to standing and lying also helps. Exercises like stretching and yoga can be utilized in dealing with the pain. Application of topical like ointments and liniments may aid in reducing the pain. But if the pain is already been experienced in more than 3 months, seek professional advice. The pain may be a result of a more serious problem that needs medical attention.

Certain diagnostic exams are used in determining the cause of pain. Tests like MRI, X-ray and CT scans provide visual photos of the lumbar structure. An in-depth assessment of the spinal vertebrae is necessary for determining the exact cause of the pain. A damage or fracture to the spine may be suspected if the pain persists in a very long time. The condition of the muscles can also be detected. Further analysis and a thorough examination are required in identifying the cause of the pain and dealing with it.