If you suffer from a low back ache, you are probably familiar with the fact that it is most often short-lived. Most people can treat the problem by resting or sleeping. However, if the pain is severe or continues for a long period of time, you may need to seek medical treatment. If you’re experiencing pain in your lower back, it’s likely you have an underlying condition. Find out if you have a slipped disc or other problem in the area.
To prevent low back pain, it’s important to do a few things. Practice good posture by sitting or standing straight with your shoulders, hips, and back in a straight line. You can also do low-impact exercises to improve your strength, flexibility, and range of motion. You can also get relief from back pain by practicing proper lifting techniques and ensuring your chair is supported properly. Try to avoid lifting heavy objects until the pain is gone, but you should also know how to lift heavy objects properly.
Low back pain can occur in any area of your body. Pain can occur below the ribs, above the legs, or in any area where you bend or twist. Almost everyone will experience back pain at one point or another. Research shows that back pain is one of the most common causes of missed work in the U.S. It usually resolves on its own, but if you’re still experiencing persistent pain, see a doctor to get the appropriate treatment.
If you think you may have a condition that causes low back pain, visit a doctor. They will conduct a full physical exam and ask about your medical history. During the physical exam, your doctor will test your range of motion, your reflexes, and your reaction to certain sensations. By evaluating your posture, your doctor can determine whether your back pain is caused by a disc or bone problem. So, make sure you’re addressing the cause of your low back pain.
While there are ways to prevent low back pain, a lot depends on the type of pain you’re experiencing. A simple back brace and correct balance on your feet can reduce the risk of back pain while you’re up. Your spinal column is made up of bony vertebrae called vertebrae. In between these bones are gel-like discs, which cushion the bones. As you get older, the discs begin to degenerate. If a disc is displaced, it can cause significant pain.
Low back pain can be acute or chronic. Acute pain is typically transient and resolves on its own without causing permanent damage to the back. Chronic pain, however, tends to linger for months and can affect your ability to perform activities of daily living. The best way to avoid low back pain is to strengthen your back muscles and practice good body mechanics. This will help prevent a future onset of back pain. If you are suffering from low back pain, it is important to get a proper diagnosis.
Physical unfitness is another common cause of back pain. Weak back muscles may not properly support your spine. This type of pain is more likely to develop in weekend warriors. Low-impact aerobic exercise is an excellent way to prevent back pain. Adding weight puts stress on the back and can even increase the risk of a recurrence of the pain. So, what can you do to reduce the chances of developing low back pain?
Trigger point injections can relax the knotted muscles that contribute to back pain. A local anesthetic and corticosteroid drugs are commonly injected into trigger points to relieve pain. Epidural steroid injections are another short-term treatment option for low back pain. They are generally effective for relieving pain but should not be used long-term as they can worsen the pain. It is advisable to consult with a medical professional if you decide to try any of these methods.
A thorough physical exam and medical history will allow your doctor to rule out any potentially serious conditions. Neurologic tests can help determine what’s causing your pain and how to treat it. Imaging tests are usually not necessary but may be ordered if specific causes are suspected. A spine scan can rule out spinal stenosis and tumors. A blood test can also identify inflammation and infection. You’ll also be able to choose from a variety of treatments based on your physician’s diagnosis.
Massage therapy can help with low back pain and allow you to go about your daily activities without regaining too much strength. While massage is effective at reducing pain, it isn’t the most effective solution. Massage therapy relies on muscle tension instead of the spine’s structure. Acupuncture is another treatment option for low back pain. Using needles into specific points on your body may help relieve pain, but it can cause drowsiness.