Most people suffer from moderate to severe back pain from time to time. The exact cause remains unknown. It can be due to overstretching or twisting of one or more muscles, joints, ligaments, or discs by the movement of the back in an awkward position. In case of severe back pain, you should seek immediate medical attention. Lower back pain affects 80 percent of the adult population some time or other in their lives. Of these 90% of patients recover on their own in hours or a day or two.

Symptoms of lower back pain

1. Constant lower back pain with no relief

2. Weakness in legs, difficulty in walking, and unsteady walking

3. Pain progresses severe over days or weeks

4. Pain intensifies while bending or moving or twisting

5. Persistent nerve pains, pain, or sensation of numbness, pins, and needles in one or both legs.

Prevention for lower back pain

Do regular exercises that include all body parts including the back.

Modify your activities so that you are less likely to strain your back.

Avoid being in one position for a long time. Take frequent breaks.

Lower back pain treatment

Rest is important for patients with episodic attacks of back pain. In severe attacks, lying down for a day or two may significantly reduce the severity of the lower back pain. If it does not help, seek medical help.

Physiotherapy is very important in the treatment and prevention of lower back pain. The combinations of heat, traction, manual treatment, and other techniques may help to rapidly reduce the severity of pain and stiffness. 

As the pain subsides, exercises to relieve stress and strengthen the back should be gradually introduced. Regularity of such exercises can help to further reduce the lower back pain, as well as protect the back from unhealthy stress and recurrent attacks of back pain.

Different types of medications like NSAIDs and muscle relaxants are useful for pain relief, muscle spasms and stiffness. In some cases, sedatives and tranquilizers can also be given at night to ensure sleep.

Disclaimer: The content on this site is for informational purposes only, and should not be taken as professional medical advice.  Always seek the guidance of your doctor or other health professionals for any questions you may have regarding your health or a medical condition.