Mild Back Numbness: Is It a Sign of Inactivity?

Mild tingling in the lower back?

I have very little physical activity.
Last week, I walked for 2 hours and felt quite tired.
After sitting down, I experienced a slight tingling sensation in my left lower back, which lasted for about ten seconds before disappearing.
I tend to slouch, but when I adjust my posture to sit up straight, the tingling does not occur.
Sometimes, when I stand and lean forward a bit to look at my phone, I also experience this tingling, but it lasts for about ten seconds and then goes away.
It does not persist, and sometimes the same posture does not trigger it.
Sitting up straight also prevents it.
Walking and other activities are fine.
A few years ago, I experienced similar symptoms, but after doing some arm-swinging exercises for a while, it improved.
My legs and lower extremities are normal, with no pain or discomfort, and I do not feel any discomfort while lying down to sleep.
Dr.
Lee, could my situation be due to a lack of exercise? Do I need treatment? Thank you.

A-Kai, 50~59 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/12/01

Dr. Li Weiqiang reply Rehabilitation

Hello, based on your description, it seems that you may be experiencing a lack of physical activity.
The distance you walked last week may have exceeded your usual physical capacity.
After some rest, you should be able to return to your original condition without the need for treatment.
However, it's important to engage in regular exercise.
The simplest form of exercise is walking; start with a slow pace and gradually increase to a speed that makes you slightly out of breath, aiming for a total of 30 minutes each day (which can be divided into three sessions of 10 minutes each).
Wishing you peace and health.

Sincerely,
Dr.
Wei-Chiang Li
Attending Physician, Department of Rehabilitation, Taoyuan General Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare

Reply Date: 2017/12/01

More Info

Mild back numbness, especially when it occurs intermittently and resolves quickly, can often be attributed to a variety of factors, including posture, muscle tension, and activity levels. In your case, the numbness you experience in your left lower back after prolonged periods of sitting or certain postures, such as leaning forward to look at your phone, suggests that it may be related to your posture and possibly muscle tightness rather than a serious underlying condition.

When you sit for extended periods, especially with poor posture (like slouching), it can lead to muscle fatigue and strain. This strain can compress nerves or restrict blood flow, resulting in temporary numbness or tingling sensations. The fact that adjusting your posture alleviates the numbness indicates that your symptoms are likely related to muscular or postural issues rather than a neurological problem.
Additionally, your history of similar symptoms that improved with increased activity, such as doing arm swings, suggests that a lack of regular exercise may contribute to your current situation. Regular physical activity helps maintain muscle strength, flexibility, and overall spinal health, which can prevent issues like muscle tightness and nerve compression.
Given that you do not experience any pain, discomfort in your lower limbs, or issues while walking, it is less likely that you have a serious condition such as a herniated disc or significant nerve impingement. However, if the numbness persists or worsens, or if you start to experience additional symptoms such as pain, weakness, or changes in bowel or bladder function, it would be prudent to seek medical evaluation.

To address your concerns about inactivity and whether treatment is necessary, consider the following recommendations:
1. Increase Physical Activity: Incorporate regular exercise into your routine. Activities like walking, swimming, or yoga can improve your overall fitness, strengthen your core muscles, and enhance flexibility, which may help alleviate your symptoms.

2. Posture Awareness: Pay attention to your posture while sitting, standing, and using your phone. Ergonomic adjustments, such as using a chair that supports your lower back or holding your phone at eye level, can reduce strain on your back.

3. Stretching and Strengthening Exercises: Engage in exercises that target your back, core, and hip muscles. Stretching can relieve tension, while strengthening exercises can provide better support for your spine.

4. Consult a Professional: If your symptoms persist or if you have concerns about your condition, consider consulting a physical therapist or a healthcare provider. They can assess your posture, muscle strength, and flexibility, and provide personalized recommendations or treatment options.

In summary, while your mild back numbness may be related to inactivity and posture, it is essential to monitor your symptoms and make lifestyle adjustments to promote better spinal health. Regular exercise, posture correction, and possibly professional guidance can help you manage and potentially eliminate these symptoms.

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