Lower back pain is a common complaint that many face today.

 It is a significant source of nuisance, as many suffer from it silently without knowing the real reasons behind it or the best ways to deal with it.

This article aims to shed light on lower back pain and understand its nature and possible causes, in addition to providing advice and instructions on how to deal with this type of pain. 

We will highlight the importance of correct diagnosis and appropriate treatment, as well as practical steps that can be taken to relieve pain and improve overall back health.

What is lower back pain?

These pains are considered one of the most common health problems that individuals complain about, and they can range in severity from mild and temporary cases to more serious and persistent cases.

These pains usually appear in the form of sharp pain or sudden stabbing pains, and these pains may extend to the buttocks and thighs. Physical activity.

Learn about: What are the causes of lower back pain?

Its symptoms

Its symptoms appear suddenly or gradually. Sometimes, the pain occurs after a specific event, such as bending over to pick something up.

The pain may be sharp or dull, and it may radiate to your buttocks or down your legs (sciatica). 

The most important of these symptoms are the following:

• Stiffness 

It is difficult to move or straighten your back and it takes some time to get up.

• Problems with body posture

 Many people with back pain find it difficult to stand up straight. 

• Muscle cramps

 After stress, the muscles in the lower back can spasm or contract uncontrollably.

Its causes

Many injuries and diseases can cause Back pain from below, like:

• Back strains and sprains due to injury to muscles, tendons or ligaments, by lifting something too heavy or not lifting it safely.
• Fractures of the spinal bones during an accident, such as a car accident or fall.
• Cartilage problems: Cartilage works to reduce the friction of the vertebrae. The cartilage may bulge out of its position in the spine and put pressure on the nerve. The cartilage may become flat and provide less protection.
• Structural problems: When the spine is too narrow in relation to the spinal cord, it can cause severe sciatic nerve pain and back pain.
• arthritis
• Disease such as spinal tumors, infections, many types of cancer, kidney stones, and aneurysms in the abdominal aorta.
• Herniated disc

Diagnose the cause of pain

To find out your reason behind these pains, you should go to your doctor to conduct a physical examination, to check for bone fractures or other damage and to do some tests and analyzes that help him see clear pictures of the vertebrae, cartilage, muscles, ligaments and tendons.  

مثل:

• X-ray of the spine, which uses radiation to produce images of the bones.
• Magnetic resonance imaging, which uses magnets and radio waves to create images of bones, muscles, tendons, and other soft tissues.
• CT scan, which uses X-rays and a computer to create 3D images of bones and soft tissue.
• Electromyography (EMG) to test your nerves and muscles and check for neuropathy (nerve damage), which can cause tingling or numbness in your legs.
• Some blood tests to detect genetic markers for some conditions that cause back pain (such as ankylosing spondylitis), or urine tests to check for kidney stones, which cause pain in the sides of the lower back.

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Who is more susceptible to back pain?

Some people are more susceptible to back pain than others. There are several factors that increase the risk of developing it, including:

 The most important are the following:

• العمر

Discs (cartilage) (soft, elastic tissue that protects the bones in the spine) wear down and weaken with age, leading to pain and stiffness.

• the weight

 Being overweight or obese puts pressure on your joints and discs (cartilage), and increases your chances of developing back pain. 

• public health

 Weak abdominal muscles cannot support the spine, which can lead to back strains and sprains. 

• Occupation and lifestyle

Jobs and activities that require lifting heavy objects or bending  increase the risk of back injury.

• Illness

 People with a family history of osteoporosis, certain types of cancer and other diseases are more susceptible to it.

• الصحة النفسية

 Back pain can result from depression and anxiety.

Read also: Does rheumatoid arthritis cause back pain?

Treating lower back pain

These pains usually improve with rest, ice, and over-the-counter pain relievers. 

If your back pain does not improve, this is a sign of a more serious condition, so you should go to the doctor immediately to receive the appropriate treatment for your condition.

Read also: Lower back pain when sitting and bending

What is the treatment for lower back pain?

• pharmaceutical: Your doctor recommends nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or pain-relieving medications that relax muscles and prevent back spasms.
• Physical therapy (PT): Physical therapy can strengthen muscles so they can support your spine. 
• Injection: The doctor injects the medicine into the area that causes the pain.
• SurgerySome injuries and conditions require surgical repair.

Can I prevent lower back pain?

You cannot prevent back pain caused by disease or structural problems in the spine.

• الحفاظ على وزن صحي: Excess weight puts pressure on the vertebrae and discs.
• Strengthening the abdominal musclesExercise programs strengthen the core muscles that support the spine.
• Lift the right way: To avoid injuries, raise with your legs (not your back).

Book your consultation now at Orthopedic center At Al Mousa Specialist Hospital 

Millions of people live with lower back pain, which has a significant impact on their quality of life.

Frequently asked questions

What is the cause of lower back pain?

Lower back pain is common and occurs for several reasons, including muscle strain or ligament tear as a result of sudden effort or lifting weights incorrectly. It may also be the result of problems in the vertebrae, such as a herniated disc or swelling in the spinal disc, which leads to pressure on the nerves. Osteoporosis is also an important cause, as the bones weaken and become more susceptible to fractures, even with simple movement. In addition, pain may result from arthritis or deterioration of the joints with age, which is known as joint degeneration disease, and in some cases the pain may be

How do I know the type of lower back pain?

You can know the type of lower back pain by the nature of the symptoms and the location of the pain. If the pain gets worse during movement or activity, it may be of the mechanical type, such as muscle strain or vertebral problems. However, if the pain is severe, accompanied by numbness or tingling that extends to the legs, it may be the result of pressure on the nerves, such as a herniated disc, while persistent pain, even during rest or at night, may indicate an inflammatory or pathological condition such as arthritis or osteoporosis.

How to get rid of lower back pain quickly?

To quickly reduce lower back pain, you can apply an ice pack to the affected area for 15-20 minutes to reduce inflammation and swelling, especially if the pain is caused by muscle strain or injury. Short rest is also recommended, avoiding sitting for long periods and maintaining a correct body posture. Light stretching and simple exercises such as stretching can help relieve spasms and improve movement. Drinking anti-inflammatory drinks daily may also be beneficial.

Sources and references

Lower Back Pain – clevelandclinic

Back pain – mayoclinic