Lower Back Pain When Lying Down: Causes and Solutions

Experiencing lower back pain when lying down?

Hello Doctor: Recently (about a week), I have been experiencing severe lower back pain when lying down.
I have to curl my body to the side or elevate my legs for a while, and only after repeating these movements does it feel somewhat better.
Sometimes, I even feel some discomfort while sitting.
Additionally, my school recently conducted a health check, and the report indicated that I have scoliosis, but I haven't seen a doctor yet.
Last week, I sprinted 100 meters at full speed and participated in a tug-of-war, during which I fell onto the grass.
I'm not sure if this is related to my back pain.
At the same time, I also have soreness in my right knee, which sometimes radiates to my buttocks.
I wonder if there is a connection, or if it might be due to poor posture, sitting for too long, or being overweight (157 cm / 65 kg).

Gǒu gǒu hěn kě ài, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/11/02

Dr. Li Yanheng reply Rehabilitation

Based on the description, it appears to be a lumbar muscle strain, likely caused by insufficient core strength during tug-of-war.
The pain in the buttocks and knees may be referred pain.
It is recommended to consult a rehabilitation specialist or an orthopedic doctor.

Reply Date: 2020/11/02

More Info

Lower back pain, especially when lying down, can be a multifaceted issue influenced by various factors such as posture, physical activity, and underlying musculoskeletal conditions. Based on your description, it seems that your pain may be related to a combination of factors, including your recent physical activities, potential spinal issues, and possibly your body mechanics.

Possible Causes of Your Lower Back Pain:
1. Muscle Strain or Sprain: Engaging in high-intensity activities like sprinting and tug-of-war can lead to muscle strains, especially if your body isn't accustomed to such exertion. Falling or sitting abruptly on the ground can also strain the muscles in your lower back.

2. Postural Issues: You mentioned having scoliosis, which can contribute to uneven stress on your spine and surrounding muscles. Poor posture while sitting or lying down can exacerbate discomfort, especially if you tend to slouch or maintain awkward positions for extended periods.

3. Disc Issues: While you did not mention any specific symptoms related to disc herniation, it is worth noting that issues with intervertebral discs can lead to pain that radiates down the legs, particularly if there is nerve involvement.

4. Knee Pain Connection: The pain in your right knee and the sensation radiating to your buttocks could indicate a referred pain pattern or a compensatory mechanism due to your lower back discomfort. Sometimes, knee issues can lead to altered gait mechanics, which in turn can affect the lower back.

5. Weight and Lifestyle Factors: At a height of 157 cm and weight of 65 kg, your BMI is approximately 26.4, which classifies you as overweight. Excess weight can put additional strain on your spine and lower back muscles, contributing to pain.

Recommendations for Management:
1. Consult a Healthcare Professional: Given your symptoms and the recent health check indicating scoliosis, it is advisable to consult a healthcare provider, such as a physical therapist or orthopedic specialist. They can perform a thorough assessment and recommend appropriate imaging studies if necessary.

2. Physical Therapy: Engaging in physical therapy can help strengthen the muscles supporting your spine, improve flexibility, and correct any postural issues. A therapist can design a personalized exercise program that addresses your specific needs.

3. Pain Management: Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can help manage pain and inflammation. However, consult with a healthcare provider before starting any medication.

4. Posture Correction: Focus on maintaining good posture while sitting and standing. Ergonomic adjustments to your workspace or study area can also help reduce strain on your back.

5. Activity Modification: While it’s important to stay active, consider modifying your activities to avoid high-impact sports until your pain subsides. Low-impact exercises like swimming or cycling may be more beneficial.

6. Weight Management: If applicable, consider adopting a balanced diet and regular exercise routine to help manage your weight, which can alleviate some of the stress on your back.

7. Stretching and Strengthening Exercises: Gentle stretching and strengthening exercises for your core and back muscles can be beneficial. Focus on exercises that promote spinal stability and flexibility.

Conclusion:
Your lower back pain when lying down could be attributed to a combination of recent physical activities, potential postural issues, and underlying spinal conditions such as scoliosis. It is crucial to seek professional evaluation to determine the exact cause and receive tailored treatment. In the meantime, adopting good posture, engaging in appropriate physical activities, and considering weight management strategies can help alleviate your symptoms and improve your overall spinal health.

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