Lower Back Pain
Causes and Symptoms of Low Back Pain
Low back pain is a common condition, with most people experiencing it at least once in their lifetime. While it can affect individuals of any age, middle-aged adults and women are at higher risk. Common causes of low back pain include muscle or ligament sprains and strains, arthritis, disc-related issues such as degenerative disc disease, and skeletal abnormalities like scoliosis. Other contributors include fractures, injuries, previous surgeries, obesity, smoking, and lack of regular physical activity. Interestingly, around 90% of low back pain cases are classified as non-specific, meaning they lack a clear underlying cause.
Pain can present as either acute (lasting a few weeks) or chronic (persisting for months or even years). Symptoms may emerge suddenly or progress gradually over time, potentially including:
Treatments
Patients experiencing low back pain will undergo a thorough evaluation, including a discussion of symptoms, medical history, and a physical examination. To identify the root cause of the pain, physicians may recommend diagnostic tests such as X-rays, CT scans, MRIs, or Electromyography (EMG).
To manage low back pain effectively, one or more of the following treatments may be suggested:
- Physical therapy
- Exercise
- Weight loss
- Lifestyle modifications such as avoiding certain activities
- OTC medications such as acetaminophen and NSAIDs
- Prescription medications
- Steroid injections
- Massage therapy
- Acupuncture
- Biofeedback therapy
- Laser therapy
- Electrical nerve stimulation
- Osteopathic manipulation or chiropractic treatment
- Bracing
Benefits of Bracing for Low Back Pain
Products
