The lower back supports the weight of the upper body and provides mobility for everyday motions, such as walking, bending, and twisting. Lower back pain may result from lumbar spine problems.
What are the common causes of chronic lower back pain?
Low back pain that lasts for more than 3 months often involves a disc problem, a joint problem, and/or an irritated nerve root. Common spine-related causes include:
- Compression Fracture
- Facet Joint Dysfunction
- Spondylolisthesis
Additional conditions include lumbar herniated disc, degenerative disc disease, sacroiliac joint dysfunction, spinal stenosis, and osteoarthritis.
What are the common symptoms associated with lower back pain?
- LOCALIZED PAIN. A dull ache or sharp pain that tends to be localized to the lower back, buttocks, and sometimes the hips.
- LEG PAIN. A sharp, electric, burning-type pain (sciatica) that may be associated with numbness or weakness and is typically felt on only one side of the body.
- POSTURE-INDUCED PAIN. Pain that worsens after prolonged sitting or standing, or after changing positions such as by bending forward, twisting, and/or lying down.
How is lower back pain treated?
Nonsurgical Treatments
A doctor may recommend one or a combination of the following nonsurgical or self-care options:
- Physical Therapy
- Ice or Heat Therapy
- Epidural Steroid
- Injections Medication
- Manual Manipulation
Surgical Treatments
Spinal surgery may be recommended in case of a medical emergency or for severe lower back pain that does not get better after 6 to 12 weeks of nonsurgical treatments.
- Microdiscectomy or Laminectomy
- Lumbar Spinal Fusion
- Artificial Disc Replacement
This information is not intended or implied as a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. All content, including text, graphics, images or other information provided is intended for general information purposes only. Always consult with your physician for diagnosis or treatment.
