Lower Back Pain (LBP) is a very common musculoskeletal problem which 80 % of the population may experience this at some point in their lives. This condition can be found in the workforce, from office workers to those whose work is more physically demanding. It is also prevalent in various age groups, from adolescents to the elderly. LBP can cause significant pain and may affect daily activity or work, even prevent you from participating in your leisure activity. Although it can be alarming, the prognosis for the majority of LBP cases is good.
What is Lower Back Pain?
The definition of lower back pain is pain, ache, or discomfort in the lower back region. This may come with or without buttock or leg pain, pins and needles sensation, numbness, weakness or other symptoms such as spasms,
What causes pain in Lower Back Pain?
The Lower Back is a complex region with many structures that may contribute to the pain you are feeling. Due to this complexity, it is often difficult to determine one specific cause of the pain. Because of this, the LBP in this category is often called as “Non-specific Lower Back Pain”. The majority of LBP cases are not associated with serious conditions, such as fracture, significant nerve compression, or other sinister pathologies. Your health practitioner will check if you have any signs or symptoms of these conditions and take further action accordingly if needed.
Is imaging/scan for Lower Back Pain necessary (x-ray, MRI, CT-scan)?
Imaging is not recommended for most cases of Lower Back Pain, unless there is a suspicion of serious conditions as described above. Research found that lower back scans on the general population often show “Wear and tear” changes even in those without Lower Back Pain. This shows that “wear and tear” does not always equate to pain, i.e. the degeneration or disc bulge finding in your imaging may not necessarily be the cause of your Lower Back Pain. In fact, the result of imaging may cause you to wrongly associate the normal “wear and tear” as the cause of pain and a misunderstanding that your pain will persist. Additionally, the imaging result often does not change the management of your Lower Back Pain.
What can I do to manage my Lower Back Pain?
Although the majority of LBP is non-sinister and may frequently settle by itself within weeks to months, there are strategies you can use to reduce the pain, improve your movement, and support your recovery.
- Avoid prolonged bed rest.
Bed rest and avoiding activity can delay your recovery. In fact, movement is beneficial in managing the symptom of Lower Back Pain. - Stay active within your tolerance.
Lack of physical activity as well as too much of physical activity is associated with Lower Back Pain. It is important for you to determine the intensity of movement that you can do without aggravating the pain. One strategy is to start with walking and gentle movement with no load, the progress this over time. During your recovery, it is important to not do too much or too little. - Pain relief Heat packs can be effective for short-term pain relief.
Your doctor may also recommend non-steroidal anti-inflammatories to manage your pain level. It is important to note that the purpose of the pain relief is to allow you to be more active (within your tolerance). Check with your doctor if you are unsure of which medication to take. - Avoid inappropriate or ineffective treatments.
There are many treatment methods, but not all are proven to be effective in managing Lower Back Pain. Passive treatment such as electrotherapy, dry needling, therapeutic ultrasound, and manual therapy may be useful in the initial stages of Lower Back Pain management but active treatment strategies involving progressive exercise and walking can be more effective in later stages. Consult your health profession for appropriate and effective treatment for your Lower Back Pain.
However, you should see your doctor urgently if you have Lower Back Pain and develop any of the following symptoms:- Numbness or loss of sensation in the genital region. I.e. “The saddle region”.
- Problems or inability to control your bladder or bower function.
- Difficulty lifting your foot due to weakness.
Our physiotherapists here at North Balwyn Physiotherapy Clinic are experienced in performing a comprehensive Lower Back assessment, and we have treated many Lower Backs Pain cases with good results. If you need help to manage your Lower Back Pain, you can reach us at 03 9859 5585 or book online.
We hope this article provides you with useful information to support and assist you in the recovery of your lower back pain.
