The lower back is the region that connects the upper body to the lower body. Since it supports the majority of the body’s weight, lower back pain is a lot more common than you might think. It is not that difficult to hurt yourself by lifting a heavy object or reaching for something. In fact, the majority of people will experience some form of lower back pain at some point in their lives. Americans spend almost $50 billion each year to treat lower back pain, which is the most common cause of missed work days and job related injury or stress.
$50 Billion Annually spent to treat lower back pain
There are many causes of lower back pain, which include, but are not limited to:
- Overuse, strain, or injury
- Aging
- Herniated disc
- Arthritis
- Compression fractures
- Illness
- Spinal problems you were born with
Acute back pain tends to fade within a few weeks. However, if left untreated, lower back pain can become chronic, especially if you are under a lot of stress or undergoing depression.
Depending on the cause of pain, symptoms can vary from:
- Dull pain
- Sharp pain
- Pain occurs over a small area
- Pain occurs over a wide area
- Muscle spasms
- Leg symptoms (pain, numbness, tingling)
Walking and rest are perhaps the simplest treatments for lower back pain. However, if your pain persists for a few weeks, further treatment (such as massage, spinal manipulation, and muscle strengthening exercises), may be needed.
Chiropractic treatment is a very effective way to treat lower back pain. Chiropractors will use hands-on spinal manipulation, aligning the body’s musculoskeletal structure so the body can heal itself. Applying heat or cold may also be used to alleviate any pain felt as a result of the lower back pain.
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People who have had lower back pain are very likely to have it again. In order to avoid further pain you can practice the following things
- Practice good posture
- Stretching and low impact exercise, such as walking, swimming, or riding a stationary bike
- Wearing low heeled shoes
- Sleeping on your side
- If you sit for long periods at work, make sure your chair has good back support and take regular breaks to walk around
- If you lift heavy things for work, talk to your human resources department to see there are other ways to do your work.
- Do not depend on a lifting belt to protect your back.
If you are still suffering from lower back pain, make an appointment with us, Injury Clinic of Dallas, at 972-644-5555. One of our staff members will help you set up a time to come in for your free consultation and direct you to our office in Richardson, Texas and visit with our Chiropractor.
