Causes and Symptoms of Lower Back Pain
By Madhusudhan Tammisetti
Approximately 50 percent of adults may have suffered from some form of back pain after the age of 60 years. The chances of getting lower back pain are higher during that stage of life.
Scoliosis, spina bifida, and kyphosis all put the spine under excessive stress, which may be exacerbated by torsion.
Vertebrae or disc damage (discs are the tissue that cushions each vertebra) is also a common source of back pain, resulting in nerve compression and pain. Herniated discs or bulging may cause sciatica, and it results in lower back pain.
Osteoporosis is another structural disease that may cause lower back pain. It makes vertebrae weaker and more prone to fracture.
Consulting a chiropractor may help in reducing the pain. The chiropractor may recommend taking rest, doing simple exercises or physical therapy, and applying ice or heat on the affected region.
Muscle Strain
It's a prevalent reason for lower back pain, and it may occur as a result of mistakenly bending in the wrong direction when lifting a heavy item or from poor posture. Similarly, abrupt, jerky movements and overexertion during exercise may create strains.
Muscle strains are more frequent in those who are sedentary and then abruptly start participating in sports.
Decreased Mobility
Most people suffering from lower back pain disregard acute symptoms resulting in chronic pain. It may result in limiting their mobility. When bending, standing straight, or twisting, it's not uncommon to have a reduced range of motion.
Without Support, People May Get Back Pain
If the pain is from the lower to mid-back region and can't use a sitting back support, the ligament or muscle support is likely to be poor. While this isn't a severe problem, a chiropractor may suggest engaging in resistance training that strengthens these muscles and ligaments.
Intense Sharp Pain
This sharp stabbing pain typically spreads down the leg and is caused by nerve compression, which includes the sciatic nerve. The most probable cause may be due to a bulging disc, and you should see a chiropractor about it for further consultation.
Treatment
Lower back pain is often self-limiting, particularly in younger people, and may go away on its own in a matter of days or weeks without any need for medical intervention. If this doesn't help and symptoms persist in this time frame, consulting a chiropractor for further treatment may be helpful.
Strengthening lower back muscles and its supporting tissues may sometimes help relieve pain, particularly if a sedentary lifestyle causes it. A chiropractor may suggest physical therapy and core strengthening exercises to overcome the pain. Improving the posture may help alleviate back pain and prevent it from recurring.
Active rest may relieve lower back pain caused due to overuse. This may include remaining in bed for an extended period enabling the healing of the supporting tissue.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Austin, Tex.