Lower Back Pain

Symptoms & Causes

Symptoms of Lower Back Pain Symptoms can range from mild to severe and may include:

• Dull, aching pain in the lower back
• Sharp or stabbing sensations that may radiate to the legs
• Muscle stiffness and tightness
• Pain that worsens with movement or prolonged standing
• Difficulty standing straight, walking, or performing daily activities

Causes of Lower Back Pain Several factors can contribute to lower back pain, including:

• Muscle or ligament strain: Lifting heavy objects or sudden awkward movements can strain muscles and ligaments.
• Bulging or ruptured discs: Discs act as cushions between vertebrae. When a disc bulges or ruptures, it can press on nerves.
• Arthritis: Osteoarthritis can affect the lower back, causing pain and stiffness.
• Skeletal irregularities: Conditions like scoliosis can lead to lower back pain.
• Osteoporosis: This condition weakens bones, leading to fractures that cause pain.

Diagnosis

Diagnosing lower back pain involves a thorough physical examination and, if needed, imaging tests such as X-rays, MRI, or CT scans. These tests help identify the underlying cause of pain and guide the appropriate treatment plan.

At Sports Massage Clinic, our experienced professionals use advanced diagnostic tools to pinpoint the exact source of your pain, ensuring accurate and effective treatment. Our diagnostic process includes:

• Physical examination: Assessing your ability to sit, stand, walk, and lift your legs.
• Imaging tests: X-rays to show bone issues, MRI or CT scans for detailed images of discs and nerves.
• Nerve studies: Electromyography (EMG) to measure the electrical impulses produced by nerves and muscle responses.

Risk Factors of Lower Back Pain

Understanding the risk factors associated with lower back pain can aid in its prevention and management. Key risk factors include:

• Age: The risk increases with age due to degenerative changes in the spine.
• Weight: Excess weight puts additional stress on the back, contributing to pain.
• Physical fitness: Weak back and abdominal muscles can lead to poor posture and strain.
• Occupational hazards: Jobs requiring heavy lifting, bending, or prolonged sitting can contribute to back pain.
• Mental health: Stress, anxiety, and depression can exacerbate lower back pain symptoms.

Treatment

Non-surgical treatments for lower back pain relief is often achieved through methods such as:

• Physical therapy: Exercises to strengthen and improve flexibility in the back and abdominal muscles.
• Medications: Pain relievers such as NSAIDs (ibuprofen) and muscle relaxants to reduce pain and inflammation.
• Chiropractic care: Spinal adjustments and manipulation to relieve pain and improve function.
• Acupuncture: A traditional Chinese medicine technique involving needle insertion to relieve pain.

In severe cases, surgical intervention may be necessary. Common options include:

• Discectomy: Removal of herniated disc material pressing on a nerve.
• Spinal fusion: Joining two or more vertebrae to reduce motion and pain.
• Laminectomy: Removal of part of the vertebrae to relieve pressure on the spinal cord or nerves.

At Sports Massage Clinic, we are dedicated to providing effective lower back pain treatment tailored to your unique needs. Don’t let pain hold you back any longer. Book your appointment today to find relief and get back to enjoying your life.

Self-Care

Taking care of your back is crucial for preventing and managing lower back pain. Here are some self-care tips:

• Maintain a healthy weight: Reducing excess weight can relieve stress on your back.
• Stay active: Regular exercise strengthens back and abdominal muscles, improves posture, and reduces pain.
• Practice good posture: Maintain proper alignment when sitting, standing, and lifting objects.
• Use proper lifting techniques: Lift with your legs, not your back, and avoid twisting your body while lifting.
• Avoid prolonged sitting or standing: Take breaks to stretch and move around to reduce stress on your back.

Frequently Asked Questions