Lower back pain is the most common musculo-skeletal complaint in the United States with an estimated 80% of all Americans having back pain at some point in their lives. It also is one of the most expensive burdens on our healthcare system, contributing heavily to our over-crowded emergency rooms on a regular basis. While the causes of lower back pain can be complex, most are not and can be effectively treated non-invasively. You don’t have to live with low back pain every day! See which one of the types of lower back pain you’re experiencing below.
Causes of lower back pain:
Muscular lower back pain: Chronic or acute pain that covers the whole lower back is often muscular in nature and often includes muscles spasms. Causes of muscular low back pain vary, but are often related to sprain/strain injuries or prolonged/repetitive overuse injuries.
Joint related lower back pain: Unfortunately some patients experience a sharp sudden and severe pain, often when twisting one’s body while lifting. This may indicate pinching of a ligament in a joint space. While this injury creates severe pain. In other cases, patients describe a constant pinching or stiffness that increases with lower back motions may indicate restricted (stuck) back and/or hip joint(s)
Spinal disc related lower back pain: Lower back pain that radiates or shoots down into one or both of the legs is often related to a budging or herniated spinal disc in the lumbar spine. There are many variables that determine the location, type, and severity of the pain levels and the appropriateness for non-invasive treatment options. Often, a MRI is necessary to confirm the diagnosis and determine the best course of action. See additional information on bulging/herniated disc pain and spinal decompression @ (insert link to disc pain/decomp page)
When to seek treatment for low back pain:
Lower back pain that does not resolve or improve with rest, ice, and avoidance of re-injury 3-5 days after onset may require professional evaluation, consultation, and treatment. X-rays (available onsite) may be indicated based off the patient’s symptoms and physical evaluation findings. A MRI referral may be potentially necessary in cases where spinal discs are the suspected cause of lower back pain.
Potential non- invasive treatment options for neck pain:
• Percussion massage
• Auto correcting cervical spine rehabilitation
• Chiropractic joint mobilization
• Spinal Disc Decompression
Our doctor and staff at the Lancaster Spinal Health Center has a long history of successfully treating sudden or chronic lower back pain and providing a permanent solutions to prevent chronic problems in the future.