What Are The Causes, Symptoms, And Treatments For Low Back Pain?

The lower back is the connection between the upper and lower portions of our skeletal frame. Because of this it results in bearing most of the weight of the body. Therefore, it is common to hurt this area when twisting, lifting or reaching. Many people experience low back pain at some point and causes, symptoms, and treatments vary from one individual to the next. This article describes more about what causes this type of pain, how to identify it, and treatment options including spinal manipulations.
Pain in the low back can be experienced anywhere from above the upper legs to below the ribs. Experts in health care have not identified a specific single cause but note that everything from a spinal problem to aging can be contributing factors. A muscle strain, protruding disc, degenerative arthritis or other injury can cause a flare-up of pain in the lower portion of the back. Even an organic illness can lead to lower back pain that can persist if left untreated.
Symptoms commonly are dictated by the cause of the condition. Discomfort may be achy and dull, or sharp and concentrated in a localized area or spread diffusely over the lower back. Some people experience spasms of muscles when they have pain. The condition can affect the legs, causing tingling and numbness in the entire lower extremities. If nerves at the bottom of the spinal cord are compressed, a serious medical condition called cauda equina syndrome may occur.
The majority of lower back pain is acute, meaning short-term, so it will resolve on its own within a short time. However, some who are under extreme physical or emotional stress or are depressed may experience long-lasting chronic pain. The scientific research Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics states that patients with chronic pain in the low back generally experience favorable outcomes from chiropractic care and patients with acute pain recover more quickly.
Whether back pain is acute or chronic, chiropractic care involving hands-on spinal manipulations performed by a chiropractic doctor can provide relief by aligning the structures of the spine and pelvis. This safe, low-cost treatment restores proper movement and mobility to the back. Maintenance treatments, stretching and strengthening exercise, and a healthy lifestyle should prolong the positive results.
Once an individual experiences low back pain, the situation is more likely to reoccur. After providing treatment, a chiropractor will recommend preventative measures including sleeping on the side, exhibiting good posture, and avoiding sitting or standing for long periods. By following a healthy lifestyle and seeking chiropractic treatment when necessary, anyone can avoid pain in the lower back.