Overview
Low back pain, also known as lumbago, is a common condition that affects people of all ages. Pain can vary from a dull, constant ache to a sudden sharp sensation. Low back pain is a common cause of doctor’s visits and disability and can be a result of many different underlying injuries or conditions, including muscle strain, a traumatic injury, pregnancy, nerve damage, and herniated discs.
Common Causes
Low back pain can be caused by various situations or conditions. Some root causes include direct injury or specific behaviors that increase strain on the lower back area, such as:
- Lifting heavy objects with improper posture
- Motor vehicle accidents
- Poor posture over long periods or unusual sleeping positions, leading to muscle strain
- Prolonged use of high heel shoes, which increase lower spine curvature
- Fatigue due to repetitive motions involving the lower back
Other causes of back pain include specific conditions that involve damage to muscles, nerves, and/or other tissue in the region, such as:
- Scoliosis
- Intervertebral disc degeneration
- Spinal nerve compression
- Spinal stenosis
Treatment
Depending on the underlying cause, severity, and duration of low back pain, treatment can take many forms. In general, it is recommended that conservative care be tried before resorting to surgery. Hot or cold compresses can help manage inflammation. Posture and gait training can address any underlying bad habits that contribute to low back pain. Physical therapy exercises, muscle stimulation, and functional training are also common treatment modalities.