What is low back pain?

Low back pain is pain and stiffness in the lower back. It is one of the most common reasons people miss work.
 

How does it occur?

Low back pain is usually caused when a ligament or muscle holding a vertebrae in its proper position is strained. Vertebrae are bones that make up the spinal column through which the spinal cord passes. When these muscles or ligaments become weak, the spine loses its stability, resulting in pain. Because nerves reach all parts of the body from the spinal cord, back problems can lead to pain or weakness in almost any part of the body.

Low back pain can occur if your job involves lifting and carrying heavy objects, or if you spend a lot of time sitting or standing in one position or bending over. It can be caused by a fall or by unusually strenuous exercise. It can be brought on by the tension and stress that cause headaches in some people.

People who are overweight may have low back pain because of the added stress on their back. Back pain may occur when the muscles, joints, bones, and connective tissues of the back become inflamed as a result of an infection or an immune system problem.

Arthritic disorders as well as some congenital and degenerative conditions may cause back pain. Back pain accompanied by loss of bladder or bowel control, difficulty in moving your legs, or numbness or tingling in your arm or legs may indicate an injury to your spine and nerves, which requires immediate medical treatment.

What are the symptoms?

Symptoms include:

• Pain in the back or legs

• Stiffness and limited motion

The pain may be continuous or may occur only in certain positions. A low back strain typically does not produce pain past the knee into the calf or foot. Tingling or numbness in the calf or foot may indicate a herniated disk or pinched nerve. Be sure to see your doctor if you have weakness in your leg, especially if you cannot lift your foot, because this is the sign of nerve damage.

How is it diagnosed?

Your doctor will review your medical history and examine you. He or she may order x-rays, myelogram, CT scan, or MRI tests.

How is it treated?

The early stages of back pain with muscle spasms should be treated with ice packs for 20 to 30 minutes every 4 to 6 hours for the first 2 to 3 days. The following are ways to treat low back pain:

• Applying heat from a heating pad

• Resting in bed on a firm mattress with your knees raised

• Anti-inflammatiyr medications

• Traction

• Corset or back support

• Physical therapy