Experiencing Pain in Your Lower Back?

The low back supports the weight of the upper body and provides mobility for everyday motions such as bending and twisting. Muscles in the low back are responsible for flexing and rotating the hips while walking, as well as supporting the spinal column. Nerves in the low back supply sensation and power the muscles in the pelvis, legs, and feet.

Most acute low back pain results from injury to the muscles, ligaments, joints, or discs. The body also reacts to injury by mobilizing an inflammatory healing response. While inflammation sounds minor, it can cause severe pain.

Causes of Lower Back Pain

Muscle Strain and Ligament Sprain

A low back sprain or strain can happen suddenly, or can develop slowly over time from repetitive movements. Some causes include:

  • Lifting a heavy object
  • Sudden movements, like a fall
  • Poor posture over time
  • Sports injuries/accidents

Chronic Lower Back Pain

Pain is considered chronic once it lasts for more than three months and exceeds the body’s natural healing process. Chronic pain in the lower back often involves a disk problem, a joint problem, and/or an irritated nerve root. Some chronic causes of lower back pain include:

  • Lumbar herniated disc
  • Degenerative disc disease
  • Facet joint dysfunction
  • Sacroiliac joint dysfunction

Treatment Options

Low Back Pain Treatment Options

The goal of medical treatments is to reduce pain, but these treatments do not change the underlying source of pain. A doctor will typically prescribe medical treatments alongside a physical therapy program or other regiment. Some treatment options include:

  • Muscle relaxants
  • Pain medication
  • Steroid injections
  • Massage therapy, acupuncture

Alternative Options

When experiencing acute pain, here are some options that help ease the pain:

  • Hot or cold packs
  • Resuming normal activities as soon as possible may ease pain; bed rest is not recommended
  • Exercises that strengthen the core or abdominal muscles may help to speed recovery from chronic lower back pain
  • Always check first with a physician before starting an exercise program and get a list of helpful exercises