Lower back pain: How to know if it is serious?

How do I know if my lower back pain is serious?

What is the main cause of lower back pain?

1. Strained muscles or ligaments:  This is often the case if you've lifted something heavy, made a sudden movement, or have poor posture. 
2. Worn-out discs:  Those cushiony discs between your vertebrae can wear down over time (degenerative disc disease), causing stiffness and pain. 
3. Slipped disc:  A herniated disc occurs when the inner part of a disc pushes out and presses on nerves, leading to intense pain. 
4. Sciatica:  This nerve pain shoots down your leg when the sciatic nerve is irritated. Ouch! 
5. Arthritis:  Osteoarthritis in the lower back can cause pain, inflammation, and make it hard to move. 
6. Spinal issues:  Conditions like scoliosis or lordosis can put extra stress on your back.  

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Other temporary causes of low back pain

1. Overdoing it:  Intense workouts or unfamiliar physical activity can strain those back muscles. 
2. Stress:  Emotional stress can manifest as physical tension, especially in the back. 
3. Slouching:  Sitting for hours with bad posture is a recipe for back pain. Try to be mindful of your posture and maybe invest in an ergonomic chair. 
4. Monthly cycle:  Some women experience back pain as part of their premenstrual symptoms.
5. Sleep troubles:  A bad mattress or awkward sleeping position can lead to a sore back in the morning.

Lifestyle factors contribute to lower back pain

1. Couch potato syndrome:  Sitting for long periods weakens back muscles. Get up and move! 
2. Weak core:  Your core muscles are essential for stabilising your spine. If they're weak, your lower back takes the strain. 
3. Extra weight:  Carrying extra pounds, especially around your midsection, puts pressure on your lower back. 
4. Smoking:  Smoking reduces blood flow to the spine, which can accelerate disc degeneration. 
5. Unhealthy diet:  Processed foods, sugary drinks, and unhealthy fats can contribute to inflammation, making back pain worse.

Can lower back pain be related to weather?

How can you tell if back pain is muscular or something else?

1. Specific spot:  The pain is usually limited to one area and feels sore or tight. 
2. Rest helps:  If resting or applying heat provides relief, it's likely a muscle strain.
3. Movement makes it worse:  Bending or twisting might intensify the pain.

Red flags

What are the risk factors for low back pain?

1. Age:  Back pain becomes more common as we age due to wear and tear. 
2. Job type:  Jobs involving heavy lifting or prolonged sitting can increase your risk. 
3. Mental health:  Depression and anxiety can heighten pain perception. 
4. Genetics:  Some people are genetically predisposed to conditions like herniated discs or arthritis.

How is lower back pain diagnosed? (tests/referrals)

1. X-rays: To check for fractures or arthritis. 
2. MRI or CT scans:  These provide detailed images of soft tissues like discs and nerves. 
3. Blood tests: To rule out infections or inflammation. 
4. Physical exam:  Your doctor will assess your flexibility, strength, and nerve function.

Treatment: How do you release lower back pain?

1. Rest and take it easy:  Avoid activities that worsen the pain, especially in the beginning. 
2. Heat and cold:  Heat relaxes muscles, while cold reduces inflammation. 
3. Stretching and exercise:  Gentle exercises and stretches can strengthen your core and improve flexibility. 
4. Over-the-counter relief:  NSAIDs like ibuprofen can help with pain and inflammation. 
5. Physical therapy:  A physical therapist can create a personalised exercise plan to help you recover.

When to seek a doctor’s appointment?

1. Pain that lasts for weeks without improvement 
2. Pain radiating down your leg 
3. Numbness or weakness in your legs 
4. Loss of bladder or bowel control 
5. History of cancer or unexplained weight loss 
6. Pain with fever or chills

Can an online doctor help via telehealth?

Questions to ask the doctor?

1. What's causing my pain? 
2. What lifestyle changes can I make? 
3. Should I limit certain activities? 
4. Are there specific exercises or stretches that can help? 
5. When should I follow up?

Final thoughts