Lower back pain is the pain one experienced in and around the rib cage, and lower part of the spine. The lower part of the spine, known as the lumbar spine is responsible for connecting the lower half of the body with the upper half. It is responsible for providing support and stability to the body. Pain and discomfort in this region can cause a great deal of difficultly with movement and reduces a person’s productivity. This pain usually resolves itself, but medical intervention may be necessary in cases where it occurs due to some underlying issue.

Symptoms of lower back pain include chronic or acute pain in the back. The sensation of pain can be dull, sharp, or pulsating. This makes it harder for a person to stand up while sitting and vice versa, while also increasing difficulty while performing locomotion. If the pain you experience occurs after an injury or a fall, it is probably acute. Monitoring this pain closely can tell us whether seeking medical help is necessary. This pain may resolve itself, but if it lasts longer than three months, it is considered chronic, and you should consult a doctor. Pain in the lumbar spine can also lead to bowel and bladder dysfunction, difficulty in sexual performance, numbness in the groin and hip area, weakness in the leg, and pain during excretion. If you have a medical history involving cancer, steroid use, unintended weight loss, a weak immune system, or your pain worsens with rest, please consult a doctor.

Lumbar back pain can result from strain on the muscles due to lifting heavy weights and incorrect posture. It could also be due to inflammation in the spine, or the rupture or bulging of discs in the spine. If this causes pressure on the sciatic nerve, it can result in pain in the buttock and down one leg. This is known as sciatica. Look into your routine at your work, the kind of back you use, your workout schedule, and posture to find signs of what may be causing stress on the lumbar spine. Conditions such as a herniated disc are excruciating and can lead to long term complications if not taken care of. It could also be a result of chronic diseases such as spinal stenosis, spondylitis, or Fibromyalgia.

While consulting a doctor, be very specific in your daily activities and routine. Explain the kind of pain you feel and when it’s the most pronounced. The doctor may need to perform imaging scans such as an X-ray, a CT scan, or an MRI scan to better investigate your condition. The doctor may advise you to take better care of the spine to ensure that it does not experience further stress. Sitting straight, avoiding heavy lifting weights, and regular heating pads can reduce the inflammation in the spine and prevent further damage. Physical therapy in the form of stretching exercises and yoga can help rehabilitate strength and stability in the spine. In some instances, medication may be prescribed to reduce pain and inflammation. If your condition is severe, injections in the spine or surgery may be required. We implore you not to ignore any discomfort you’re experiencing. Treatment is available to reduce your pain and improve your quality of life.