Lower Back Pain: Causes and Solutions for Relief

Q: Lower Back Pain: Causes and Solutions for Relief

Hello, A-Tong： Based on your description, you have a history of trauma that has resulted in a back injury. <br>More than 90% of back injuries are due to muscle strains, characterized by localized pain and a specific tender point. <br>However, according to your account, you need t

Lower back pain?

Dr.
Zhou: Good evening! Hello! I am currently experiencing slight pain in my lower back, approximately below my navel.
There is also a mild pain when I bend over, and a tight, painful sensation when I squat, although it feels somewhat relieving.
I haven't experienced this before; it's likely due to my frequent lifting of heavy objects.
Additionally, I think I may have strained my lower back at one point, and then while riding my motorcycle, I hit a pothole, which felt like my spine collided, causing significant pain.
It has been about a year since this happened.
Please help me! Thank you!

A Tong, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2003/12/16

Dr. Zhou Lizhi reply Orthopedics

Hello, A-Tong: Based on your description, you have a history of trauma that has resulted in a back injury.
More than 90% of back injuries are due to muscle strains, characterized by localized pain and a specific tender point.
However, according to your account, you need to squat down to relieve the pain, which is partially located in the lumbar region and has persisted for a year.
These symptoms suggest that there may be nerve compression due to an injury to the lumbar vertebrae.
Therefore, I recommend that you come to our hospital for a thorough examination, including X-rays, spinal imaging, and a CT scan, to confirm the diagnosis.
Thank you!

Reply Date: 2003/12/16

More Info

Lower back pain is a common issue that can arise from various causes, including muscle strain, injury, or underlying medical conditions. Based on your description, it seems that your pain may be related to a combination of factors, including previous heavy lifting and a potential injury from riding your motorcycle over a pothole. Here, I will outline some potential causes of your lower back pain and suggest solutions for relief.

Causes of Lower Back Pain
1. Muscle Strain: Lifting heavy objects can lead to muscle strain, which is one of the most common causes of lower back pain. This can occur when the muscles or ligaments in the back are stretched or torn.

2. Injury: The incident you described while riding your motorcycle could have resulted in a jolt to your spine, potentially leading to a sprain or strain in the muscles or ligaments surrounding the spine.

3. Disc Issues: Although you did not mention any specific symptoms related to nerve pain (such as numbness or tingling in the legs), it's worth noting that issues with the intervertebral discs, such as herniation or degeneration, can also cause localized pain and discomfort.

4. Postural Problems: Poor posture while lifting heavy objects or sitting for prolonged periods can contribute to back pain. If you have developed a habit of improper lifting techniques, this could exacerbate your condition.

5. Underlying Conditions: Conditions such as arthritis, spinal stenosis, or scoliosis can also cause lower back pain. Given the duration of your symptoms, it may be worth considering a thorough evaluation by a healthcare professional.

Solutions for Relief
1. Rest and Activity Modification: Initially, it is important to allow your back to rest. Avoid activities that exacerbate the pain, such as heavy lifting or prolonged sitting. However, prolonged bed rest is not recommended; gentle movement can help maintain flexibility.

2. Physical Therapy: Engaging in physical therapy can be beneficial. A physical therapist can design a personalized exercise program that focuses on strengthening the core muscles, improving flexibility, and correcting posture. This can help alleviate pain and prevent future injuries.

3. Pain Management: Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can help manage pain and reduce inflammation. If your pain persists, a healthcare provider may prescribe stronger medications or recommend other pain management techniques.

4. Heat and Cold Therapy: Applying heat or cold to the affected area can provide relief. Cold packs can reduce inflammation, while heat can help relax tense muscles. Alternating between the two may also be effective.

5. Ergonomic Adjustments: If your work or daily activities involve lifting or sitting for long periods, consider making ergonomic adjustments. Use proper lifting techniques, take regular breaks to stretch, and ensure your workstation is set up to promote good posture.

6. Lifestyle Changes: Maintaining a healthy weight, engaging in regular physical activity, and practicing good posture can significantly reduce the risk of developing back pain. Incorporating low-impact exercises, such as walking or swimming, can strengthen your back without putting too much strain on it.

7. Consult a Specialist: If your pain persists despite these interventions, it may be beneficial to consult a specialist, such as an orthopedic surgeon or a pain management specialist. They can conduct further evaluations, such as imaging studies, to determine if there are any underlying issues that need to be addressed.

Conclusion
Lower back pain can be a complex issue with multiple contributing factors. It is essential to approach treatment holistically, considering both immediate relief and long-term prevention strategies. If your symptoms do not improve or worsen, seeking professional medical advice is crucial to ensure that you receive the appropriate care and interventions. Remember, early intervention can often lead to better outcomes and a quicker return to normal activities.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Lower Back Pain: Causes and Solutions

I have been experiencing lower back pain frequently after walking or standing for a while. The pain usually subsides after I go to bed for some time, and I'm unsure if this is due to poor posture or if there could be other underlying causes.

Dr. Jiang Junyi reply Neurology
Hello: Your symptoms may be related to poor posture, as lumbar disc herniation can cause nerve root compression and localized myofascial inflammation. Other potential causes of lower back pain could include kidney inflammation, ureteral stones, among others. In addition to medica...

Understanding Your Back Pain: Possible Causes and Solutions

I often experience pain in my lower back, especially after walking or sitting for extended periods. Sometimes, lying down can be quite uncomfortable, and it takes a while for me to feel normal again. What could be the possible causes of this?

Dr. Li Wenlin reply Orthopedics
Hello: In response to your question, according to books and previous research reports, over ninety-five percent of patients under the age of sixty-five who complain of back pain have this issue primarily due to poor posture. The solution involves first taking medication in conjun...

Understanding Lower Back Pain: Causes and Relief Strategies

I've been feeling very uncomfortable in my lower back these past couple of days. I can't stand for long without feeling unbearable pain, and I have to lie down in bed and bend my body to feel some relief.

Dr. Jiang Junyi reply Neurology
Hello, based on your description, it seems that you have lumbar spine pathology such as a herniated disc causing nerve root compression. Typically, the pain is located in the lower back and may radiate down to the legs. The risk of damage increases with greater activity levels. S...

Understanding Chronic Lower Back Pain: Causes and Relief Strategies

Hello, my mother has been lifting heavy objects and standing for long periods due to work for several years. During this time, she has been experiencing frequent lower back pain, sometimes to the point of weakness, especially after work, making it difficult for her to sleep. She ...

Dr. Jiang Junyi reply Neurology
Based on your description, the symptoms may be related to conditions such as herniated discs, bone spurs, vertebral dislocation or slippage, thickening or calcification of spinal ligaments, all of which can cause nerve root compression. The symptoms primarily manifest as unilater...