Everything You Need to Know About Lower Back Pain (Causes and Remedies)

Pain in the lower back is one of the most common reasons behind doctor visits. As stated by the NINDS or the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, the lower back pain is usually the main cause of job-related disabilities. About 80% of the US population experiences lower back pain at some point in their life.

Some of the most common causes behind the lower back pain are injuries which include muscle strains or sprains resulting from poor body mechanisms and sudden movement when lifting heavy objects. Lower back pain can also be due to certain illnesses, such as arthritis, herniated disc, cancer of the spinal cord, and kidney infections. Acute pain in the back can last from a few days to several weeks, while chronic back pain can last up to three months.

Lower back pain usually occurs among individuals who are 30 to 50 years old. This is mainly due to the changes that take place in the body as a result of aging. As you age, the fluid content that’s in between your spine and vertebrae reduces. As a result, the discs in your spine get irritated so easily. You’ll also lose some muscle tone, putting your back at high risk of injury. By strengthening your back muscles and applying good body mechanisms, you’ll be able to successfully prevent lower back pain.

Low Back Pain Causes

Strains

The ligaments and muscles in your back could tear up and stretch after excess activity. Some of the symptoms include stiffness and pain in the lower back and muscle spasms. Getting enough rest and undergoing physical therapy are some of the best remedies to cure these symptoms.

Disc Injury

The discs at your back are at high at high risk of injury and the risk increases, as you get older. The outside part of the discs could tear or become herniated. Herniated disc, also known as ruptured or slipped disc happens if the cartilage that surrounds the disc will push against the nerve roots or the spinal cord.

If you suffer from a disc injury, the cushion that’s sitting in between the spinal vertebrae will extend outside its usual position. This will result in the compression of the nerve root as it gets out of the spinal cord and into the vertebral bones. Disc injury usually occurs after suddenly lifting a heavy object or after twisting the back. The pain resulting from disc injury usually lasts for more than 72 hours.