Low Back Pain

Low Back Pain

Description

Low back pain is pain and stiffness in the lower back and it is estimated that 80% of people will experience it in their lifetime. It is one of the most common reason adults miss work. The CDC reports that low back pain is the leading cause of pain in the U.S.

Cause

Low back pain is usually caused when a ligament or muscle holding a vertebra in its proper position is strained. When these muscles or ligaments become weak, the spine loses it stability, resulting in pain. Because of the network or nerves emanating from the spinal cord, back problems can lead to pain or weakness throughout the body. Low back pain can be caused by a myriad of reasons including: lifting heavy objects, sitting/standing for long periods, frequent bending, caused by a fall, strenuous exercise, tension, overweight, arthritis and degenerative conditions, and even coughing or sneezing. Back pain accompanied by a loss of bladder or bowel control, difficulty moving your legs,or numbness/tingling in your arms or legs may indicate a more severe injury and requires immediate medical treatment.

Symptoms

The pain may be continuous or may occur in certain positions. It may be aggravated by coughing, sneezing, bending, and twisting. The pain may occur in only one spot or may spread to other areas, most commonly down the buttocks and into the back of the thigh. A low back strain typically does not produce pain past the knee into the calf or foot. Tingling or numbness in the calf or foot may indicate a herniated disc or "pinched" nerve.

Examination

Your healthcare provider will review your medical history and examine you. Your physician may order X-rays, and in certain situations a myleogram, CT scan, or MRI may be ordered.

Treatment

The early (acute) stages of back pain with muscle spasms can be treated with ice for 15-20 minutes every 4-6 hours for the first 24-48 hours. The following are ways to treat low back pain:

  • Rest on a firm mattress. It often helps to rest on your back with knees raised or on your side with knees bent.

  • Taking aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen, or other NSAIDs; muscle relaxants or pain medications if recommended by your physician.

  • Beginning a regular exercise program to gently stretch and strengthen you muscles as recommended by your Athletic Trainer.

Prevention

You can reduce the strain on your back by doing the following:

  • Use proper form and technique while participating in your sport and during weight training.

  • Bend your knees and hips and keep your back straight when you lift heavy objects

  • Avoid lifting heavy objects from the ground above your waist.

  • Maintain good flexibility and core strengthening

Recovery/Rehabilitation

The goal of rehabilitation is to return you to your sport or activity as soon as is safely possible. If you return too soon you may worsen your injury, which could lead to permanent damage. Everyone recovers from injury at different rates. Return to your sport will be determined by how soon your back recovers, not by how many days or weeks it has been since your injury occurred. In general, the longer you have symptoms before you start treatment, the longer it will take to get better.

It is important that you have coordinated care with your Athletic Trainer or Therapist and fully recovered from you low back pain before you return to your sport. You must have the same pain-free range of motion as before the injury, and full strength. You must be able to run, jump and twist without pain.