Lower back pain can be a sharp, throbbing sensation that is isolated in the lower spine area. Our spinal cord and nerves are complex systems that consist of bones, discs, tendons, and muscles that can be damaged by many factors. If you are experiencing discomfort in your lower back, the first step in identifying the underlying source of your pain is considering the type and severity of your symptoms. As a general rule, any back pain that goes away within a few days with or without medication is classified as acute. If the pain persists for more than a few months, it is considered chronic and it should be thoroughly investigated in order to determine its cause. This is not an easy process and should be performed by a licensed healthcare professional, like our doctors at LA Pain and Performance. We have offices in the Inland Empire and High Desert and invite you to contact us to discover the location nearest to you so we can help alleviate your pain.
The most common and best understood type of pain is acute pain. Acute pain will result when tissue is injured by trauma, surgery, illness, or infection. This type of pain is generally understood and expected. It is typically sharp, shooting, aching, or burning, and it decreases as the tissue heals and the body recovers. This is pain that is "talking to you" and telling you that something is wrong.
The sudden onset of pain in the back can occur after an injury or may appear without a known problem. If the pain is only in the tissues around the spine and does not radiate into the shoulders, arms, or hand, it is less likely to involve pressure on the nerve roots. If the pain is radiating into the limb, then this is more likely to involve pressure on the nerve. The etiology could be strain or tearing of the supporting tissues with intense muscle spasm, a herniation of the disc between the vertebrae, or a fracture of the bony structure of the spine. Initial care will include rest, pain medications, muscle relaxants, and possible epidural steroid injections, with trigger point injections for muscle spasms. The early use of physical therapy is important in many cases.
When a particular pain outlasts the normal healing process, it is categorized as chronic pain. Chronic pain symptoms can be caused by a variety of abnormalities in the nervous system. It can be complex, and it is often disabling. Chronic pain can greatly affect a person’s work, personal relationships and self-esteem. The determination of a specific and accurate diagnosis is mandatory for proper treatment.
Chronic back pain is pain experienced longer than 3 – 6 months and might result from the same sources as noted in acute back pain. However, many times the pain may originate from injury to the nerve tissues from chronic degeneration of the spine, or may continue after surgery. Appropriate evaluation might reveal the pain source, and allow specific treatment. The anatomical reasons for pain need to be differentiated from the pain caused by nerve injury which is also known as neuropathic pain.
Below are the following complications or conditions associated with lower back pain:
Lower back pain can be caused by muscle strain, a slipped disc, a pinched nerve, a sedentary lifestyle, arthritis, a curved spine (scoliosis), or bone fracture. These conditions can arise from poor weight lifting techniques, bad posture, advanced age, excessive weight gain, a sports injury, or trauma. To help prevent injury and lower back pain when doing heavy lifting or working out, it's important to lift with your legs instead of your back. Steady, low impact exercises, such as walking and swimming, can also help strengthen the back without putting unnecessary stress on the spine. Incorporating routine stretching, daily exercise, and maintaining a healthy weight are essential for maintaining optimal back function.
Acute lower back pain generally improves overtime with at-home remedies, like over-the-counter pain medication and the use of cold and hot compresses. The longevity and severity of lower back pain will vary from patient to patient, and if it can't be eased with nonprescription medication, then it may be time to see a medical professional about your symptoms. At LA Pain and Performance, we offer several options for lower back pain, including anti-inflammatory medication, prescription pain relievers, steroid injections, and nerve blocks. When you visit one of our locations, we will carefully evaluate your condition to determine the best treatment option for you.
Is my lower back pain serious?
In many cases, lower back pain is simply uncomfortable. However, if you find it to be debilitating, it is important to see a medical professional as soon as possible to diagnose the issue and begin treatment. Additionally, you should schedule an appointment if you notice any of the following symptoms:
Are my muscles or spine causing my lower back pain?
Pain in the muscles usually feels like a constant burn or shock and is usually felt constantly. However, spinal-related pain typically extends down your legs. The best way to know for sure is to schedule a consultation with a member of our team so we can perform an in-depth analysis.
Getting help from a skilled physician can help bring insight into the underlying cause of your pain and why it’s not going away despite countless over-the-counter medications. Let our doctors at LA Pain and Performance give you the right treatment and diagnosis for your chronic back pain. We have a diversely trained and knowledgeable pain management team that can help alleviate your discomfort so you can regain mobility and optimal back function.
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