Understanding Lumbar Back Pain
Muscle strains are the most frequent cause of lower back pain. The back is prone to muscle strains and sprains because of its weight bearing function and movements. Many people may not even remember the initial event that triggered their muscle spasm. Understanding the cause of your lumbar back pain is key to obtaining proper treatment. Lumbar sprain is caused when the ligaments are torn from their attachments, and a muscle strain is caused when muscle fibers are stretched or torn. Both strains and sprains can result from an injury or gradually over a long period of time of over use.
Lower back pain, or lumbar back pain is most often described as a sudden, sharp pain felt below the waist. It is most commonly caused by a muscle strain associated with hard physical work, lifting, bending or twisting, or standing in one position too long. Any of these movements can aggravate an existing back problem. Lumbar back pain usually occurs suddenly with intense pain, and it can last for several months.
Treatment for lumbar back pain may include bed rest for a short period of time, usually only a couple of days. It may also include the use of non steroidal anti-inflammatory medication if the pain is not too severe. Your doctor will most likely recommend some for of physical therapy, whether it is from a professional physical therapist, or therapy performed in the home. If you are referred to a physical therapist, they should perform an in-depth evaluation of your range of motion, and physical wellness in order to form an exercise plan for your specific needs. Therapy may include gentle massage, ice/heat therapy, ultrasound, muscle stimulation and stretching exercises. Pain medication or muscle relaxant may be prescribed in combination with physical therapy.
Almost 95 percent of all patients recover almost completely from an episode of lumbar back pain. The recover process and prevention of further episodes depends hugely upon the patients cooperation and participation in recovery. There are many things you can do to help prevent any future lumbar back pain. Crunches and other abdominal muscle strengthening exercises have been proven to help provide spinal stability. Swimming and stationary bicycling and walking are all great aerobic exercises that do not put additional stress on your lower back. Using correct bending and lifting techniques such as squatting to lift heavy objects will help your back stay healthy. Maintaing correct posture when you are sitting or standing, and maintaining a healthy weight will help avoid extra strain on your lower back. If you are a smoker, quitting as soon as possible will help avoid the hardening of your arteries (athrosclerosis), which can lead to lumbar back pain and degenerative disc disorders. |