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Low Back Pain

Conditions

About Low Back Pain

Low back pain is a common ailment that affects people of all ages and can range from mild discomfort to severe pain. It may originate from various structures in the lower back, including muscles, ligaments, nerves, discs, and joints.

Possible Causes of Low Back Pain (with descriptions)

Low back pain can be caused by several factors, including:

  • Muscle Strain: Overstretching or tearing of the muscles or ligaments in the lower back, often due to improper lifting or sudden movements.
  • Herniated Disc: When the soft inner core of a spinal disc protrudes through the tough outer shell, irritating nearby nerves and causing pain.
  • Spinal Stenosis: Narrowing of the spinal canal, which can compress the spinal cord or nerve roots and lead to pain, numbness, or weakness in the legs.
  • Degenerative Disc Disease: Wear and tear on the spinal discs over time, resulting in loss of disc height, decreased cushioning, and potential nerve irritation.
  • Spondylolisthesis: Forward slippage of one vertebra over another, which can pinch nerves and cause lower back pain and leg discomfort.
  • Facet Joint Dysfunction: Irritation or inflammation of the small joints in the spine, leading to localized pain in the lower back.

Symptoms Linked to Low Back Pain

Common symptoms associated with low back pain include:

  • Pain, stiffness, or tenderness in the lower back
  • Sharp or shooting pain that radiates down the buttocks and legs (sciatica)
  • Numbness or tingling sensation in the legs or feet
  • Weakened muscles or difficulty standing or walking
  • Reduced range of motion in the lower back

Diagnosing Low Back Pain

Diagnosing the cause of low back pain typically involves:

  • Medical History Review to assess symptoms, past injuries, and medical conditions
  • Physical Examination to evaluate posture, range of motion, and signs of nerve irritation
  • Imaging Studies such as X-rays, MRI, or CT scans to visualize spinal structures and identify abnormalities
  • Diagnostic Tests like electromyography (EMG) or nerve conduction studies to assess nerve function and identify nerve damage

Treating Low Back Pain

Treatment for low back pain aims to relieve pain, improve function, and prevent recurrence. It may include:

  • Rest and Activity Modification to avoid activities that worsen the pain
  • Heat or Ice Therapy to reduce pain and inflammation
  • Medications such as NSAIDs, muscle relaxants, or analgesics for pain relief
  • Physical Therapy and Exercise Programs to strengthen core muscles, improve flexibility, and support the spine
  • Injections such as corticosteroids, epidurals, or facet joint injections for targeted pain relief and inflammation reduction
  • Spinal Decompression Therapy to relieve pressure on spinal nerves (e.g., traction)
  • Surgery for severe cases or when conservative treatments fail, including discectomy, laminectomy, or spinal fusion

Possible Treatments

Treatments for low back pain offered by interventional pain management physicians and orthopedic surgeons may include: