Every person sooner or later faces such a problem asLower back pain.According to statistics, more than half of sick leaves are issued precisely because of this diagnosis.
Causes of lower back pain
The most likely cause is various diseases of the spine – osteochondrosis, spondyloarthrosis, radiculitis.However, there are other factors:
- pathologies of internal organs;
- kidney disease, gastrointestinal tract, urological problems;
- Excessive stress on the spine;
- Oncological diseases of organs in the immediate vicinity of the lower back
Diagnosis for lower back pain
If worrying symptoms occur, a doctor should be consulted immediately to rule out life-threatening illnesses - although these are very rare, they do occur.Diagnosis includes several stages:
- General blood test and biochemistry – show the presence/absence of an inflammatory process in the body
- X-ray diagnostics – to examine the condition of the intervertebral discs
- MRI of the lumbar spine – allows a detailed examination of the spine and spinal canal and determines the presence of stenosis
- Ultrasound is a modern method that allows you to detect diseases without the use of harmful radiation.
Based on the research results, the patient is offered a consultation with a highly specialized specialist - a neurologist, vertebrologist or chiropractor - who prescribes further treatment.
Pay attention!
The treatment of lower back pain is usually therapeutic.All procedures are carried out only in the area of the source of the pain.Surgery is only indicated if there is a real threat to life.
Lower back pain in women
Lower back pain is common among the fairer sex.It can be caused by both diseases of the musculoskeletal system and concomitant diseases, including gynecological ones.
Pay attention!
According to statistics, back problems are 10% more common in women than in men.However, the number of requests for medical help (among women) is 5% lower
Causes of back pain in women:
- Spinal problems – scoliosis, kyphosis, osteochondrosis, bulges and herniated discs caused by increased stress, sedentary work, hypothermia, as well as genetic predisposition
- Periodic female diseases – menopause, menstruation, pregnancy
- Inflammation of the pelvic organs, diseases of the kidneys and the genitourinary system
- Rare – neoplasms in the lumbar spine
Lower back pain in men
Back problems are the most common disease among the stronger sex.Pain usually occurs unexpectedly and is accompanied by severe attacks.
Main reasons:
- Injuries are typical for men who lead an active lifestyle.The consequences of damage may not appear immediately, but rather after some time.
- Muscle inflammation – occurs with increased stress, heavy lifting or injury.
- Spondyloarthrosis – entrapment of the nerve roots in the spinal canal
- Weight problems – extra pounds put additional strain on the back and cause constant tension in the muscles
- Overtiredness – staying in one position for a long time – often a peculiarity of professional activity
- Diseases of the prostate, liver, kidneys
Treating lower back pain
Modern medicine offers a variety of options for treating lower back pain, both in the hospital, with the help of medication and without medication in the affected areas.
Relieving back pain with medication
In most cases, back problems do not pose an obvious threat to life.Discomfort is caused only by pain that limits physical activity.
To alleviate the condition, the following is prescribed:
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs – they reduce swelling and relieve pain;
- Chondroprotectors – to improve the condition of the intervertebral cartilage;
- Hormonal medications – are used for blockages.They relieve pain faster and last longer;
In addition to injections and tablets, local therapies – gels and ointments – can also be used.However, they are ineffective if the pain is severe.
Important!
Nerve endings that are responsible for the basic functions of our body run through the spine.Damage to them can have irreparable consequences.Therefore, the qualifications of the treating doctor should not be questioned.This is the key to your health!
Treating back pain with physiotherapy
All measures to relieve pain and eliminate the causes of its occurrence are prescribed by the doctor based on the results of the examination.
All types (depending on the type of disease) of massage, manual therapy, acupuncture - acupressure at the source of pain - have proven themselves very well.They reduce stress and accelerate blood circulation.
Important!
In the case of certain illnesses, such as a herniated disc, the massage is carried out under X-ray control or is completely contraindicated!
Physiotherapy and exercise therapy are also ideal for pain in the lumbar region.This treatment puts even strain on the damaged areas of the back.By relaxing one part of the spine and creating tension in another part, optimal load balancing is achieved.
Forced stimulation and warming up of the muscles – electrophoresis, UHF, magnet – are very popular.Such manipulations can be carried out with or without the use of anti-inflammatory ointments and gels.
Important!
If cancer is confirmed or during remission, physiotherapy with forced stimulation is contraindicated.
Take care of your health, do not overcool, control your stress - this will help prevent the occurrence of lower back pain.If back problems cannot be avoided, do not be afraid to seek qualified help.Solving a problem in its early stages is much easier than dealing with a chronic illness.