BACK PAIN, LOW

 Basic information

description

Low back pain is pain and stiffness that affects the lower part of the back (the area from the rib cage to the tailbone). It is usually acute (lasting a few days to a few weeks). It is a common health problem and can affect anyone at anytime, but often occurs in ages 20 to 65.

FREQUENT SIGNS & SYMPTOMS

• Symptoms may develop quickly or have a slow onset.
• Pain, stiffness, and soreness in the lower back. It may be ongoing, or only occur when you are in certain positions. The pain may get worse by coughing, sneezing, bending, or twisting.
• The symptoms may occur in a cycle, starting with a muscle spasm; the spasm then causes pain; the pain results in another muscle spasm.
• Sciatica (pain that runs down the leg) in some cases.

causes

• It is usually caused by sprains or strains that can affect the lower back's muscles, tendons, ligaments, nerves, joints, discs, and bones. This back pain is sometimes referred to as nonspecific low back pain as it is unclear just what part(s) of the lower back are causing the pain. (Even x-rays and other tests are often not helpful.) .
• Specific back pain is less common. It can be caused by disorders such as spinal stenosis or arthritis.

risk increases with

• Ages 20 to 65.
• Family history of back pain.
• Previous back injury, back surgery, or spine problem.
• Overweight.
• Smoking.
• Poor body mechanics and poor posture.
• Work or tasks that require a lot of sitting or heavy lifting, bending or twisting, or repetitive motions.
• Bone and joint conditions of the back.
• Injury or a fracture.
• Congenital problem (being born with).
• Pregnancy.
• Certain sports or recreational activities.
• Emotional factors (e.g., stress, depression, others).

PREVENTIVE MEASURES

• Low back pain cannot always be prevented.
• Exercise (both aerobic and strength-building).
• Lift heavy objects carefully. Use good posture. Lose weight, if overweight. Don't smoke.

expected outcomes

In most cases, it is not a serious condition and symptoms clear up in 2 to 4 weeks.

possible complications

Chronic or recurring low back pain.

 diagnosis & treatment

general measures

• Your health care provider will do a physical exam and ask questions about your back pain symptoms and activities. Medical tests may be done in some cases. Tests may include x-rays, CT, or MRI.
• The treatment that works best for most people is a combination of self-care and drug therapy (to help relieve symptoms).
• Medical studies show that staying more active is often better for back disorders than prolonged bed rest.
• An ice pack, cold massage, heating pad, or warm compress applied to the area may help to reduce pain.
• Stop smoking. Find a plan that will help you quit.
• Counseling may help (e.g., for depression or stress).
• Other therapy options may help some people. These can include massage, chiropractic care, yoga, acupuncture, ultrasound, or electrical nerve stimulation.
• Surgery for disk damage may rarely be needed.
• To learn more: National Institute of Arthritis & Musculoskeletal & Skin Disorders, (877) 226-4267; web-site: www.niams.nih.gov.

medications

• Use nonprescription pain drugs such as aspirin, ibuprofen, or acetaminophen.
• Stronger pain drugs, anti-inflammatories, muscle relaxants, or antidepressants may be prescribed.

activity

• Resume your usual activities as soon as possible.
• Avoid or limit any bed rest (no more than 1 to 2 days).
• As pain eases, begin an exercise program. Focus on back and abdominal strength, flexibility, and posture.
• Physical therapy may be prescribed.

diet

No special diet. A weight-loss diet is usually recommended if being overweight is a problem.

 notify our office if

• You or a family member has low back pain and self-care does not help.
• Back pain is severe or recurs. New symptoms occur.

Special Notes: