🌟 Feeling the pinch in your lower back? You’re not alone! Discover when to worry, how to treat it, and tips for prevention in this latest blog post. Don’t let back pain hold you back! 💪 #BackPain #HealthTips #StayActive

What Causes Low Back Pain?

Often, doctors can’t pinpoint the exact cause. Here are some common culprits:

• Muscle strains
• Damaged discs
• Arthritis
• Bony growths
• Misaligned vertebrae
• Narrow spinal canal

And while rare, tumors or infections could also be involved.

When To See A Doctor

Almost everyone gets back pain at some point. But even when the pain is severe, it usually goes away on its own within a few weeks. It is rare to need urgent care or surgery.

There are certain situations where you should definitely see your doctor or nurse:

• Recently had a fall or back injury
• Shooting pain down the legs
• Have numbness or weakness in your legs
• Have problems with bladder or bowel control
• Have unexplained weight loss
• Have a fever
• Take oral steroid medicine regularly
• Have diabetes or a medical problem that weakens your immune system
• History of cancer
• History of osteoporosis
• Back pain does not start to improve within 4 weeks
• Unable to do simple tasks

Will You Need Tests?

Not usually. Most cases of back pain go away within a few weeks. Doctors typically only order an imaging test if there are signs of something unusual or if you have any of the red flags listed above.

How Is Back Pain Treated?

The majority of people with low back pain don’t have serious medical issues. Here are some simple treatments you can try:

1. Stay Active: Movement is key! While resting for a day or two might be necessary if your pain is severe, getting back to your normal activities is crucial. Avoid heavy lifting and sports while your back hurts, but try to keep doing your normal daily activities.
2. Heat Therapy: It might help to use a heating pad or heated wrap. But avoid high heat settings to prevent skin burns.
3. Over-the-Counter Medications such as ibuprofen or paracetamol
4. Acupuncture
5. Physiotherapy: If pain persists beyond a few weeks, consider physical therapy for tailored exercises and stretches.

Only a small number of people need surgery to treat back pain.

Prevention is Key!

To reduce the risk of future episodes of low back pain:

• Stay active and incorporate exercises that strengthen and stretch your back.
• Learn proper lifting techniques—use those legs!
• Avoid prolonged sitting or standing in one position.

Conclusion

While low back pain can be a frustrating and sometimes alarming experience, it’s important to remember that most cases resolve on their own within a few weeks. By staying informed about the signs that warrant medical attention and adopting proactive self-care strategies, you can navigate through your discomfort with confidence.

Reference: https://www.uptodate.com/contents/evaluation-of-low-back-pain-in-adults?search=back%20pain&source=search_result&selectedTitle=1~150&usage_type=default&display_rank=1

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