Do you experience acute low back pain or lower back pain symptoms?

Do you experience a dull ache in your lower back or a sharp pain that makes it hard to move? Low back pain, also known as lumbago, is a common disorder that can impact people of all ages. This article will provide you with a comprehensive guide on the symptoms, causes, and treatments of low back pain by Physio Labs.

Causes of Low Back Pain

Low back pain is a common health problem that can be caused by various factors. Muscular causes of low back pain include muscle strain or sprain from heavy lifting or sudden movements [1]. Spinal causes of low back pain include degenerative disc disease, herniated discs, spinal stenosis, and fractures [3]. Inflammatory causes of low back pain include conditions such as ankylosing spondylitis and rheumatoid arthritis. Other causes can include infections, tumors, and kidney stones. Identifying the specific cause of low back pain is crucial for determining the appropriate treatment plan.​

What does the research say about spine pain:

Before diving into the details, let's first take a look at what reputable sources say about low back pain. According to Wikipedia, "low back pain or lumbago is a common disorder involving the muscles, nerves, and bones of the back, in between the lower edge of the ribs and the lower fold of the buttocks" [1]. Healthdirect.gov.au notes that "lower back pain refers to pain felt in the lower part of the spine (the lumbar spine). Back problems can also affect the upper back (the thoracic spine), the neck (cervical spine) as well as the tailbone (coccyx)" [2]. Lastly, Mayo Clinic states that "back pain is more common with age, starting around age 30 or 40. Lack of exercise. Weak, unused muscles in the back and abdomen might lead to back pain. Excess weight. Excess body weight puts extra stress on the back. Diseases. Some types of arthritis and cancer can contribute to back pain" [3].

Do you experience acute low back pain or lower back pain symptoms?

Do you experience a dull ache in your lower back or a sharp pain that makes it hard to move? Low back pain, also known as lumbago, is a common disorder that can impact people of all ages. This article will provide you with a comprehensive guide on the symptoms, causes, and treatments of low back pain by Physio Labs.

Causes of Acute and Chronic Low Back Pain

There are numerous causes of low back pain, including:

Mechanical Causes of lower back pain symptoms (types of low back pain)

Mechanical causes of low back pain refer to issues with the mechanics of the spine, such as:
  • Herniated or bulging discs
  • Spinal stenosis
  • Osteoarthritis
  • Spondylolisthesis
  • Sciatica

Non-Mechanical Causes low-back pain

Non-mechanical causes of low back pain can include:
  • Infections of the spine
  • Cancer that has spread to the spine
  • Kidney stones
  • Fibromyalgia
  • Endometriosis
  • Pelvic inflammatory disease

Referred Pain from the Low Back

Referred pain is pain that is felt in an area of the body that is not the source of the pain. For example, a problem with the kidneys can cause pain in the lower back often. Other causes of referred pain can include:
  • Pancreatitis
  • Gallbladder disease
  • Ulcerative colitis
  • Prostatitis

Referred Pain from the Low Back

Several risk factors increase the likelihood of experiencing low-back pain, including:
  • Age
  • Lack of exercise
  • Excess weight
  • Genetics
  • Poor posture
  • Smoking

Treatment options of Low Back pain and (including non-specific Low Back Pain)

There are several treatment options available for low back pain, depending on the cause and severity of the pain. Non-surgical treatments may include Physiotherapy, chiropractic care, massage, and medication, such as pain relievers, muscle relaxants, or corticosteroids [3]. Surgical treatments may be necessary in cases of severe or chronic low back pain and can include procedures such as spinal fusion or disc replacement [1]. Alternative therapies, such as acupuncture or yoga, may also be helpful in reducing pain and improving mobility [2].​

Preventing Low Back Pain management

Preventing low back pain involves making lifestyle changes and taking steps to reduce the risk of injury. Exercise and physical activity, such as walking or swimming, can help improve strength and flexibility [2]. Lifestyle modifications, such as maintaining a healthy weight and avoiding smoking, can also help reduce the risk of low back pain [1]. Proper ergonomics and posture, such as maintaining a neutral spine position while sitting or lifting, can also help reduce the risk of low back pain [3].

Living with Low Back Pain / Lower Back Pain Self-Care

Managing and coping with low back pain involves finding strategies that work best for each individual. Coping strategies for acute low back pain may include rest, ice or heat therapy, and over-the-counter pain relievers [2]. Coping strategies for chronic low
In many cases, low back pain can be managed through self-care, such as:

References

  1. Healthdirect.gov.au: Healthdirect.gov.au is an Australian government website that provides information on health and medical topics. The website has information on back pain, including its causes, symptoms, and treatment. This website is an authoritative source on health-related topics and provides accurate and reliable information on low back pain [3].
  2. Mayo Clinic: Mayo Clinic is a nonprofit medical organization that provides reliable and comprehensive information on health and medical topics. The website has information on back pain, including its causes, symptoms, and treatment. This website is an authoritative source on health-related topics and provides accurate and reliable information on low back pain [4].
  3. Physio Labs: Physio Labs is an Australian physiotherapy clinic that provides information on low back pain, including its causes, symptoms, and treatment. As a specialized clinic, it provides accurate and reliable information on low back pain, making it an authoritative source [1].
  4. National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS): NIAMS is a government organization that provides information on diseases related to muscles, bones, joints, and skin. It has information on low back pain, including its causes, symptoms, and treatment. This website is an authoritative source on health-related topics and provides accurate and reliable information on low back pain [5].
  5. American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS): AAOS is a medical professional organization that provides information on musculoskeletal conditions. It has information on low back pain, including its causes, symptoms, and treatment. This website is an authoritative source on health-related topics and provides accurate and reliable information on low back pain [6].
  6. Spine-health: This website is dedicated to providing information about spine health and conditions, including low back pain. It is run by medical professionals and has high authority and trustworthiness. [3]
  7. National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke: This is a government-run institute that provides information about neurological disorders, including low back pain. It is a credible source for information on this topic. [3]