What causes sharp stabbing pain in the lower left side of the back. How can you treat lower left back pain at home. When should you see a doctor for left-sided back pain. What are the symptoms of kidney stones vs muscle strain in the lower back.

Common Causes of Lower Left Back Pain

Experiencing sharp, stabbing pain in the lower left side of your back can be concerning and debilitating. While often due to minor muscle strains that heal with time, left-sided back pain can sometimes signal more serious underlying conditions requiring medical attention. Understanding the potential causes can help you determine the appropriate course of action.

Muscle Strain: The Most Frequent Culprit

Muscle strain is the most common reason for lower left back pain. This type of injury typically occurs due to:

• Sudden twisting movements
• Falls or accidents causing back trauma
• Carrying heavy items unevenly, like a bag on one shoulder
• Poor posture, especially when sitting for long periods

How can you identify if your pain stems from a muscle strain? Key indicators include soreness, stiffness, stabbing sensations, and muscle spasms in the affected area. These symptoms usually resolve within a few days to weeks with proper rest and home care.

Kidney Issues: When Back Pain Signals Something More Serious

While less common, kidney problems can manifest as lower left back pain. Two primary kidney-related causes to be aware of are:

1. Kidney Infection

An untreated urinary tract infection (UTI) can progress to a kidney infection, causing a constant, aching pain radiating through the left lower back. Additional symptoms may include:

• Burning sensation during urination
• Fever
• Chills
• Nausea
• Frequent urination

If you experience these symptoms alongside lower left back pain, consult a doctor promptly as kidney infections require antibiotic treatment.

2. Kidney Stones

Kidney stones are mineral deposits that form in the urinary tract. They can cause intense, sharp pain in the lower left back, as well as:

• Pain in the lower abdomen and groin
• Discomfort below the ribs
• Blood in the urine
• Nausea and vomiting

Kidney stones often pass on their own with proper hydration, but larger stones may require medical intervention.

Less Common but Serious Causes of Left-Sided Back Pain

While muscle strains and kidney issues account for many cases of lower left back pain, several other conditions can produce similar symptoms. Being aware of these less frequent but potentially serious causes is crucial for timely diagnosis and treatment.

Herniated Disc: When Spinal Cushions Slip Out of Place

A herniated disc occurs when one of the soft cushions between your vertebrae pushes out through a crack in the tougher exterior. This can irritate nearby nerves, causing pain that may be felt on one side of the lower back. Symptoms of a herniated disc include:

• Sharp, shooting pain that may extend down the leg
• Numbness or tingling in the affected area
• Muscle weakness in the leg or foot

How is a herniated disc treated? Treatment options range from conservative measures like physical therapy and pain medication to surgical intervention in severe cases.

Sciatica: When Nerve Pain Radiates

Sciatica refers to pain that radiates along the path of the sciatic nerve, which branches from your lower back through your hips and buttocks and down each leg. When the sciatic nerve is compressed or irritated, it can cause:

• Sharp, burning pain in the lower back and leg
• Numbness or weakness in the affected leg
• Difficulty moving the leg or foot

Sciatica often results from a herniated disc, bone spur, or spinal stenosis. Treatment typically involves a combination of pain management, physical therapy, and addressing the underlying cause.

Spinal Stenosis: When the Spinal Canal Narrows

Spinal stenosis is a narrowing of the spaces within your spine, which can put pressure on the nerves that travel through the spine. While it most commonly affects the lower back, symptoms can appear on one side. Signs of spinal stenosis include:

• Numbness or tingling in a leg or foot
• Weakness in a leg or foot
• Pain or cramping in one or both legs when standing for long periods or walking

Treatment for spinal stenosis aims to relieve symptoms and may include medications, physical therapy, or in some cases, surgery.

Pregnancy-Related Lower Left Back Pain

Pregnancy can often lead to lower back pain, including pain specifically on the left side. This discomfort is typically due to several factors:

• Weight gain and changes in posture
• Hormonal changes that loosen ligaments
• Stress on the lower back muscles
• Expansion of the uterus

How can pregnant women manage lower left back pain? Safe strategies include gentle exercise, proper posture, supportive shoes, and pregnancy support belts. Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new pain management regimen during pregnancy.

When to Seek Medical Attention for Left-Sided Back Pain

While many cases of lower left back pain resolve on their own, certain symptoms warrant immediate medical attention. Seek help if you experience:

• Severe pain that doesn’t improve with rest
• Pain accompanied by fever, chills, or unexplained weight loss
• Numbness or tingling in the legs
• Difficulty controlling bladder or bowel movements
• Pain following a fall or other injury

These symptoms could indicate a more serious underlying condition requiring prompt diagnosis and treatment.

Home Remedies and Self-Care for Lower Left Back Pain

For minor cases of lower left back pain, several home remedies and self-care strategies can provide relief:

Rest and Modified Activity

Give your back a break, but avoid complete bed rest. Gentle movement helps maintain flexibility and promotes healing. How long should you rest? Limit rest to 1-2 days, then gradually return to normal activities as tolerated.

Heat and Cold Therapy

Alternating between heat and cold can help reduce pain and inflammation. Apply ice for the first 48-72 hours after injury, then switch to heat. Which is more effective, heat or cold? Both have benefits – use whichever provides more relief.

Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen or naproxen can help reduce pain and inflammation. Always follow dosage instructions and consult a healthcare provider if you have any concerns.

Gentle Stretching and Exercise

Once acute pain subsides, gentle stretching and low-impact exercises can help strengthen back muscles and improve flexibility. What are some safe exercises for lower back pain? Try walking, swimming, or yoga designed for back pain relief.

Professional Treatment Options for Persistent Left-Sided Back Pain

If home remedies don’t provide adequate relief, several professional treatment options are available:

Physical Therapy

A physical therapist can design a personalized exercise program to strengthen your back muscles, improve flexibility, and correct posture issues contributing to pain.

Chiropractic Care

Chiropractic adjustments may help alleviate pain by improving spinal alignment and reducing pressure on nerves.

Massage Therapy

Therapeutic massage can help relax tense muscles and improve circulation to the affected area, promoting healing and pain relief.

Acupuncture

This traditional Chinese medicine technique involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body to relieve pain and promote healing.

Prescription Medications

For severe pain, your doctor may prescribe stronger pain relievers, muscle relaxants, or anti-inflammatory medications.

Interventional Procedures

In some cases, procedures such as epidural steroid injections or nerve blocks may be recommended to provide longer-lasting pain relief.

Preventing Future Episodes of Lower Left Back Pain

While not all causes of lower left back pain are preventable, several strategies can help reduce your risk of future episodes:

• Maintain good posture, especially when sitting for long periods
• Use proper lifting techniques, bending at the knees and hips
• Strengthen core muscles through regular exercise
• Maintain a healthy weight to reduce stress on your back
• Stay hydrated to keep spinal discs healthy
• Use supportive shoes and consider orthotics if needed
• Practice stress-reduction techniques like meditation or deep breathing

By incorporating these preventive measures into your daily routine, you can significantly reduce your risk of experiencing future bouts of lower left back pain.

9 Causes and Treatment Options

Lower Left Back Pain: 9 Causes and Treatment Options

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This article was medically reviewed by Jason R. McKnight, MD, MS, a family medicine physician and clinical assistant professor at Texas A&M College of Medicine. 

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If you have lower left back pain, it’s best to see a doctor in case of infection or a herniated disc.

Povozniuk/Getty Images

• The most common cause of low back pain on the left side is a muscle strain. 
• Other causes of lower left back pain include a kidney infection, herniated disc, and pregnancy. 
• To treat lower left back pain, take OTC pain relievers, improve your posture, and apply heat.

A stabbing or throbbing pain on the lower left side of your back can sideline you from exercise and basic activities for days. The good news is that it’s probably because you’ve strained some of your back muscles or ligaments, which will heal over time.

But in some cases, unilateral back pain, like on just the left side, signals a serious issue like an infection or injury that needs medical care.

Here are nine potential causes of pain on the left side of your lower back, when to consult a doctor, and how you can treat it yourself.

1. Muscle strain

The most common cause of lower left back pain is an injury to the muscles, tendons, and ligaments supporting the spine such as: 

• A fall or other accident causing back trauma
• A sudden twisting movement 
• An uneven distribution of weight, such as when you’re carrying a heavy bag on one shoulder
• Poor posture

Signs your back pain is due to a muscle strain is if you feel sore, stiff, experience a stabbing pain, or have muscle spasms, says Michael Rosner, MD, a neurosurgeon at George Washington University’s School of Medical and Health Sciences. 

2. Infection 

An untreated UTI can lead to an advanced bladder infection or left kidney infection which can cause a constant, aching pain that radiates through your left lower back.

The best thing to do is to prevent UTIs by staying hydrated and peeing after sex, and treating symptoms right away using home treatment methods and/or antibiotics. 

If you have left lower back pain and also have symptoms such as burning urination, fever, or chills, see your doctor as soon as possible to check for an infection, says Anthony Chiodo, MD, clinical director of Spinal Cord Injury Medicine at the University of Michigan.

3. Kidney stones

Kidney stones, which are mineral build ups in your urinary tract, can cause sharp, intense pain through the lower left side of your back as well as pain in the lower abdomen, groin, and below the ribs. Another common symptom is bloody urine. 

Some of the major risk factors for kidney stones include genetics, diet, geographic location, and other underlying medical conditions. 

Smaller stones can pass through the urinary tract without treatment, but a urologist may need to remove larger stones via surgery or by using shock waves to break them up. Or, you could always try riding a roller coaster. 

4. Endometriosis

Endometriosis is a condition where tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus. It can cause low left back pain, along with intense cramping during menstruation and pain during intercourse.

Endometriosis is a common condition that affects 1 in 10 women in the US, and can lead to complications with fertility. The gold-standard of endometriosis diagnosis is laparoscopic surgery, so doctors can see where the tissue has spread. 

5. Stress fracture

Overtime repeated physical activity, such as lifting weights or playing sports like tennis, rowing, and gymnastics can strain the spine, resulting in a stress fracture. 

The area may hurt when you touch it, and the pain may be too severe to respond to over-the-counter treatments. Most cases heal on their own in six to eight weeks, but the only way to get a proper diagnosis is through medical attention.

6. Pregnancy

More than two-thirds of pregnant women experience lower back pain, most often in the form of what is called posterior pelvic pain.  

Posterior pelvic pain is a deep, throbbing pain that you either experience on one or both sides of your lower back.

You will also probably experience general muscle soreness in your back as the baby grows larger. That’s because the baby’s weight can throw off your center of gravity, which may require you to compensate by working different muscles in your back.

7. Sacroiliac joint dysfunction

Sacroiliac joint dysfunction is when the joint that connects the hip bones to the lower part of the spine moves abnormally, becoming inflamed.

Inflammation in the left hip joint can cause a dull, aching pain in the left lower back, often accompanied by pain in the buttocks, or in the back of the left upper thigh. 

The condition can be chronic or a result of temporary stress. Risk factors include pregnancy, uneven leg length, or impact from an accident like a fall.   

8. Herniated disc 

Lumbar disks, the cushion of tissue between each vertebrae in the lower spine, can bulge or compress under stress, causing a herniated disc.

Most people have no symptoms from a herniated disc, but some develop pain and numbness on one side of their lower back, depending on where the disc is located. In rare cases, disks break or rupture, causing severe pain and requiring surgery to prevent permanent nerve damage. 

“If you have radiating leg pain or increasing leg weakness, or bowel or bladder dysfunction, go to the emergency room,” Chiodo says.

9. Tumor

While rare, spinal cancer or a spinal tumor can cause back pain on the left or right side of the back.

Other symptoms may include unexplained weight loss, fever, numbness, weakness, or difficulty walking. However, it’s important to note that this is a rare cause of back pain. 

How to treat low back pain

• Over-the-counter pain medications such as acetaminophen, aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen to relieve pain and inflammation. 
• Prescription drugs like muscle relaxants or pain relievers can provide short-term relief.
• Over-the-counter topical creams, gels, patches, or sprays with lidocaine, menthol, or capsaicin stimulate nerves in the skin, dulling pain. They can be particularly helpful for localized pain due to sore muscles. 
• Hot or cold pads may help ease pain, reduce inflammation, and improve mobility.
• Core exercises that strengthen your abs and muscles lining the spine may help take the stress off the back, Rosner says. Check with your doctor before beginning any exercise program to make sure the exercises are right for your condition. 
• Mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR), an eight-week program of meditation and gentle yoga, can improve chronic lower back pain. 

Insider’s takeaway 

Pain on the lower left backside is a common ailment and is usually the result of a soft tissue injury. Most back pain can be treated at home and should go away in a matter of weeks.

Having additional symptoms like fever or severe pain that persists for more than a few days may be a sign of a more serious underlying cause, such as a disk rupture, fracture, or an infection. 

Consult your doctor as soon as possible if your arm or leg feels numb, you have problems walking or standing, or if you lose control of your bladder or bowels. 

Stacy Lu

Stacy Lu is a health journalist in the Washington, D.C. area. She’s written for The New York Times, Forbes, NBC News, HuffPost and more on topics ranging from the power of placebos to embryo adoption. Follow her on Twitter and see more of her work.

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Low back pain – acute: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia

Low back pain refers to pain that you feel in your lower back. You may also have back stiffness, decreased movement of the lower back, and difficulty standing straight.

Acute back pain can last for a few days to a few weeks.

Most people have at least one backache in their life. Although this pain or discomfort can happen anywhere in your back, the most common area affected is your lower back. This is because the lower back supports most of your body’s weight.

Low back pain is the number two reason that Americans see their health care provider. It is second only to colds and flu.

You will usually first feel back pain just after you lift a heavy object, move suddenly, sit in one position for a long time, or have an injury or accident.

Acute low back pain is most often caused by a sudden injury to the muscles and ligaments supporting the back. The pain may be caused by muscle spasms or a strain or tear in the muscles and ligaments.

Causes of sudden low back pain include:

• Compression fractures to the spine from osteoporosis
• Cancer involving the spine
• Fracture of a spine bone
• Muscle spasm (very tense muscles)
• Ruptured or herniated disk
• Sciatica
• Spinal stenosis (narrowing of the spinal canal)
• Spine curvatures (like scoliosis or kyphosis), which may be inherited and seen in children or teens
• Strain or tears to the muscles or ligaments supporting the back

Low back pain may also be due to:

• An abdominal aortic aneurysm that is leaking.
• Arthritis conditions, such as osteoarthritis, psoriatic arthritis, and rheumatoid arthritis.
• Infection of the spine (osteomyelitis, diskitis, abscess).
• Kidney infection or kidney stones.
• Problems related to pregnancy.
• Problems with your gall bladder or pancreas may cause back pain.
• Medical conditions that affect the female reproductive organs, including endometriosis, ovarian cysts, ovarian cancer, or uterine fibroids.
• Pain around the back of your pelvis, or sacroiliac (SI) joint.

You may feel a variety of symptoms if you have hurt your back. You may have a tingling or burning sensation, a dull achy feeling, or sharp pain. The pain may be mild, or it can be so severe that you are unable to move.

Depending on the cause of your back pain, you may also have pain in your leg, hip, or the bottom of your foot. You may also have weakness in your legs and feet.

When you first see your provider, you will be asked about your back pain, including how often it happens and how severe it is.

Your provider will try to determine the cause of your back pain and whether it is likely to quickly get better with simple measures such as ice, mild painkillers, physical therapy, and proper exercises. Most of the time, back pain will get better using these methods.

During the physical exam, your provider will try to pinpoint the location of the pain and figure out how it affects your movement.

Most people with back pain improve or recover within 4 to 6 weeks. Your provider may not order any tests during the first visit or for 4 to 6 weeks unless you have certain symptoms.

Tests that might be ordered include:

• X-ray
• CT scan of the lower spine
• MRI of the lower spine

To get better quickly, take the right measures when you first feel pain.

Here are some tips for how to handle pain:

• Stop normal physical activity for the first few days. This will help relieve your symptoms and reduce any swelling in the area of the pain.
• Apply heat or ice to the painful area. One good method is to use ice for the first 48 to 72 hours and then use heat.
• Take over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) or acetaminophen (Tylenol). Follow package instructions on how much to take. Do not take more than the recommended amount.

While sleeping, try lying in a curled-up, fetal position with a pillow between your legs. If you usually sleep on your back, place a pillow or rolled towel under your knees to relieve pressure.

A common misbelief about back pain is that you need to rest and avoid activity for a long time. In fact, bed rest is not recommended. If you have no sign of a serious cause for your back pain (such as loss of bowel or bladder control, weakness, weight loss, or fever), then you should stay as active as possible. It is important to prevent your back and abdominal muscles from becoming too weak.

You should reduce your activity only for the first couple of days. Then, slowly start your usual activities after that. Do not perform activities that involve heavy lifting or twisting of your back for the first 6 weeks after the pain begins. After 2 to 3 weeks, you should gradually start exercising again.

• Begin with light aerobic activity. Walking, riding a stationary bicycle, and swimming are great examples. These activities can improve blood flow to your back and promote healing. They also strengthen muscles in your stomach and back.
• You may benefit from physical therapy. Your provider will determine whether you need to see a physical therapist and can refer you to one. The physical therapist will first use methods to reduce your pain. Then, the therapist will teach you ways to prevent getting back pain again.
• Stretching and strengthening exercises are important. But, starting these exercises too soon after an injury can make your pain worse. A physical therapist can tell you when to begin stretching and strengthening exercises and how to do them.

If your pain lasts longer than 1 month, your primary provider may send you to see a physiatrist (specialist in rehabilitation), an orthopedist (bone specialist) or neurologist (nerve specialist).

If your pain has not improved after use of medicines, physical therapy, and other treatments, your provider may recommend an epidural injection.

You may also see:

• A massage therapist
• Someone who performs acupuncture
• Someone who does spinal manipulation (a chiropractor, osteopathic doctor, or physical therapist)

Sometimes, a few visits to these specialists will help back pain.

Many people feel better within 1 week. After another 4 to 6 weeks, the back pain should be completely gone.

Contact your provider right away if you have:

• Back pain after a severe blow or fall
• Burning with urination or blood in your urine
• History of cancer
• Loss of control over urine or stool (incontinence)
• Pain traveling down your legs below the knee
• Pain that is worse when you lie down or pain that wakes you up at night
• Redness or swelling on the back or spine
• Severe pain that does not allow you to get comfortable
• Unexplained fever with back pain
• Weakness or numbness in your buttocks, thigh, leg, or pelvis

Also contact your provider if:

• You have been losing weight unintentionally
• You use steroids or intravenous drugs
• You have had back pain before, but this episode is different and feels worse
• This episode of back pain has lasted longer than 4 weeks

There are many things you can do to lower your chances of getting back pain. Exercise is important for preventing back pain. Through exercise you can:

• Improve your posture
• Strengthen your back and improve flexibility
• Lose weight
• Avoid falls

It is also very important to learn to lift and bend properly. Follow these tips:

• If an object is too heavy or awkward, get help.
• Spread your feet apart to give your body a wide base of support when lifting.
• Stand as close as possible to the object you are lifting.
• Bend at your knees, not at your waist.
• Tighten your stomach muscles as you lift the object or lower it down.
• Hold the object as close to your body as you can.
• Lift using your leg muscles.
• As you stand up with the object, do not bend forward.
• Do not twist while you are bending down for the object, lifting it up, or carrying it.

Other measures to prevent back pain include:

• Avoid standing for long periods. If you must stand for your work, alternate resting each foot on a stool.
• Do not wear high heels. Use cushioned soles when walking.
• When sitting for work, especially if you are using a computer, make sure your chair has a straight back with an adjustable seat and back, armrests, and a swivel seat.
• Use a stool under your feet while sitting so that your knees are higher than your hips.
• Place a small pillow or rolled towel behind your lower back while sitting or driving for long periods.
• If you drive a long distance, stop and walk around every hour. Bring your seat as far forward as possible to avoid bending. Do not lift heavy objects just after a ride.
• Quit smoking.
• Lose weight.
• Do exercises on a regular basis to strengthen your abdominal and core muscles. This will strengthen your core to decrease the risk for further injuries.
• Learn to relax. Try methods such as yoga, tai chi, or massage.

Backache; Low back pain; Lumbar pain; Pain – back; Acute back pain; Back pain – new; Back pain – short-term; Back strain – new

• Spine surgery – discharge

• Lumbar vertebrae
• Backaches
• Sciatic nerve

Corwell BN, Davis NL. Back pain. In: Walls RM, Hockberger RS, Gausche-Hill M, Erickson TB, Wilcox SR, eds. Rosen’s Emergency Medicine: Concepts and Clinical Practice. 10th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2023:chap 31.

El Abd OH, Amadera JED. Low back strain or sprain. In: Frontera WR, Silver JK, Rizzo TD Jr, eds. Essentials of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation: Musculoskeletal Disorders, Pain, and Rehabilitation. 4th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2019:chap 48.

Grabowski G, Gilbert TM, Larson EP, Cornett CA. Degenerative conditions of the cervical and thoracolumbar spine. In: Miller MD, Thompson SR, eds. DeLee, Drez, & Miller’s Orthopaedic Sports Medicine. 5th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2020:chap 130.

Malik K, Nelson A. Overview of low back pain disorders. In: Benzon HT, Raja SN, Liu SS, Fishman SM, Cohen SP, eds. Essentials of Pain Medicine. 4th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2018:chap 24.

Murray EL, Misulis KE. Lower back and lower limb pain. In: Jankovic J, Mazziotta JC, Pomeroy SL, Newman NJ, eds. Bradley and Daroff’s Neurology in Clinical Practice. 8th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2022:chap 33.

Updated by: C. Benjamin Ma, MD, Professor, Chief, Sports Medicine and Shoulder Service, UCSF Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, San Francisco, CA. Also reviewed by David C. Dugdale, MD, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.

Low back pain | How to distinguish pain: types, causes and treatment

Chondrosis, sciatica, lyubmago, sciatica, dorsopathy, protrusion, hernia – back pain is so diverse that not even all syndromes have official names. Let’s understand the types of low back pain, their causes and treatments. Bonus at the end of the article: 7 practical tips to help you live without pain.

When your lower back hurts, don’t rush to scold yourself for the “wrong” lifestyle, neglect of physical education or sedentary work. You will be surprised, but not all back pain is associated with muscles or the spine. Otherwise, how to explain lower back pain in athletes? What about children? At the fitness lady? Or, on the contrary, an absolutely healthy back of an avid gamer who did not hold anything heavier than a computer mouse in his hands?

First, let me explain what pain is. Pain is a sensation, a nerve impulse that occurs in the head as a result of exposure to any stimuli, both external and internal. Scientifically, this is called afferentation. The body uses it to navigate in space (proprioception), to feel hot or cold (thermoreception), and so on.

Among this variety of impulses there are pain impulses. Their task is to warn of an impending disaster: injury or possible damage. When the incident occurs, the receptors stop sending a sensation of acute pain. If any of you readers have been seriously injured, then remember: first, the pain pierces the entire body, and then recedes. As a sports doctor, I often had to see athletes who were “rushing into battle” with broken arms or legs. And I saw enough of ordinary people who tried to walk on a broken leg or grabbed bags with a broken arm while working on an ambulance.

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Acute pain, designed to protect us, is turned off by the brain after an event. It is replaced by a vegetative reaction – sympathetic (many more attractive) and / or parasympathetic. Which reaction will benefit will determine how you react to pain: pass out or become furious.

In phylogenesis (that is, in the historical development of biological species) it so happened that man became a social being. And to stop the vegetative reaction, a person needs another person who is able to fight this reaction. In the ancient tribes there has always been such a person – a shaman, medicine man, healer or healer. So since ancient times, people used all sorts of drugs and herbs to change the sensations of pain – so that there was time to bring, for example, a warrior to the camp where the shaman was.

In modern times, if you have a sharp pain, you go to a “shaman” in a white coat and get a “drug” from oil, which takes the pain to another path. And studies of your spine show only the effects of pain. A typical story that often leads rationally minded people to “healers” who set the vertebrae with a blow of a wooden mallet.

That’s why I’m writing this article, to help you understand the nature of pain. And do not get caught by dishonest people who are aimed at “pushing” the patient into unnecessary hernia reduction, lower back sprain or pointless spinal surgery.

Why does my lower back hurt?

You and I have already determined that back pain is caused by the threat of an injury or disorder. The body warns us about it with a muscular defense, that is, tension in the place where attention is required. What can cause lower back pain? Most often due to muscle overload. For example, a pensioner was idle all winter, and in the spring he went to plant potatoes. Or the autolady suddenly went to throw snow at the garage. The muscles of the back or legs were not ready for such a load – there was pain in the lower back.

Such pain is relieved “for one-two-three” with a simple uncomplicated massage, physiotherapy and physical rest. This pain can be easily prevented with regular exercise. It does not constrain movements and, moreover, sometimes causes encouragement from the nervous system, like “pain of trained muscles” (as in athletes when they go “to the mass”). Such pain does not require medical attention.

There is another pain caused by “sudden training”: awkwardly turned around, lifted weights, blew out. This lower back pain is sharp and restricts movement. Do not think that if the cause of the pain is trifling (like “raised a bag of potatoes”, “pulled the barbell”, “washed my hair”), then the consequences are not serious. Acute low back pain may indicate trauma to the spine, ligaments, joints, muscle damage (tendinitis), herniated disc, Modic 1 discitis, endplate injury, and other organic damage to the spinal motion segments. Such pain requires immediate medical attention.

If you do not make a correct differential diagnosis and do not identify the real cause of back pain, you can get a very negative result. Unfortunately, it is not uncommon for a patient to have a hernia operated on, but the pain has not gone away. They put a blockade – the pain intensified. They stretched the spine – the person stopped walking.

SERVICES AND PRICES

4 causes of back pain

Without going into details and not going into the terms of academic medicine, there are 4 main causes of back pain.

Postural pain

Occurs as a result of trauma, injury, congenital anomalies, damage to the nervous system, violation of postural or walking patterns. Classical rehabilitation can cope with this pain very well. Usually, with the right distribution of effort, acute lower back pain is significantly reduced by the end of the second week.

In some cases, pain management can be difficult, requiring long-term healing of the lower back injury. It will definitely be necessary to carry out diagnostic procedures, possibly an MRI or X-ray, in some cases a CT scan or other functional studies of the lumbar vertebra will be prescribed.

Treatment of postural pain is necessarily supported by manual therapy, medical massage, physiotherapy, exercise therapy, orthopedic products. In extreme cases, surgical treatment is allowed.

Visceral pathology

One of the most common causes of low back pain, oddly enough, is visceral pathology. Chronic diseases of the internal organs predetermine the course of back pain, turning this condition into a heavy burden.

Therefore, when making an appointment with such pains, we recommend that you bring examinations of the kidneys, liver, pelvic organs, blood and urine, lungs and heart tests.

Many patients try to hide from the pain in the gym by exercising and are genuinely perplexed when they get worse. The problem is that with visceral pain, physical education will not help. And the point is not at all in the exercises, but in the performer. All exercises are useful, but not for all patients.

When they try to sell you a one-stop solution for back pain, remember that this is just a business. “Super-mega-complex of exercises that will help you forget about back pain” at best, at least for a while, will be useful for three out of ten patients.

Visceral pathology is treated by highly specialized doctors. From the side of rehabilitation, visceral therapy, some types of physiotherapy, postural support in the gym of physiotherapy exercises and at the chiropractor, as well as medicines are possible.

Psychosomatic pain

The third, and by the way, very common cause of chronic back pain is emotions. The starting point for it can be inflammation in the intestines or spine, a transient metabolic disorder, or chronic stress.

This is probably the most difficult category of patients. Their suffering is reinforced by panic attacks and fears of medical interventions. They are emotionally labile, their mood can change before our eyes, and the doctor suddenly turns from a savior into the main culprit of all troubles and vice versa. At the same time, a specialist who can really help (a psychotherapist or psychologist) is perceived “with hostility”.

The difficulty of working with this type of pain is that many of our colleagues burn out emotionally because of the behavior of patients: they become uninterested in treating, the patient remains with chronic pain and wanders from specialist to specialist.

Meanwhile, in the treatment of such patients, individual exercises of exercise therapy have proven themselves well. Regular meetings with the doctor, “education” of his body, massage with manual therapy allow the patient to get rid of the emotional paradigm that dominates him.

The Osteomed Clinic has formed a correct idea of ​​the treatment of pain, in which the emotional component prevails over the organic one. Thanks to an individual approach in the diagnosis and treatment of low back pain, our doctors have managed to achieve a high percentage of recovery in people suffering from chronic pain.

Specific pain

The last, fourth, cause of back pain, I will not analyze in detail in this article. I will mention that the cause of pain here is chemical-metabolic disorders caused by immune, autoimmune, metabolic or genetic disorders.

In the treatment of such patients, physiotherapy, manual therapy, massage, physiotherapy exercises, osteopathic correction and other classical methods of rehabilitation are used. However, narrow specialists play a leading role here: a rheumatologist, a therapist, a gastroenterologist and other specialized doctors.

7 practical tips to help you live without pain

1. If you experience low back pain, rate its intensity on a 10-point scale.

· If you want to drink painkillers, then the pain is above 5 points – you definitely need to see a doctor (not a massage therapist!).

· If the pain is less than 5 points, remember what caused it. In case of an unusual load (changed the wheel, dug potatoes), do not worry – the pain will go away by itself, you just need to give your body a rest: warm up in the bath or bath, go for a massage. However, if the load was habitual, and similar pains happened before, then it’s time for you to see a doctor (again, not a masseur!).

2. Do not rush to take painkillers. They can hide the true “face” of low back pain.

3. Don’t look for a one-size-fits-all remedy that will relieve you of lower back pain. First, find the cause of these pains.

4. If exercising at the gym makes your low back pain worse, you should see your doctor.

5. If habitual physiological phenomena (eg mensis) lead to back pain, you should consult a doctor.

6. Timely contact with a specialist will allow you to quickly return to your normal life.

7. It is normal to move without pain at any age, whether you are 18 or 81. Ask our patients!

Mutylo Andrey Vitalievich

Chief doctor of the medical center “Osteomed”, neurologist, chiropractor, sports doctor

SERVICES AND PRICES

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Acute lower back pain

Although back pain is not usually a serious medical problems and most often goes away on their own, it can interfere with daily life.

Several factors increase the risk of developing low back pain. These include smoking, obesity, older age, female gender, physically strenuous or sedentary work, work-related stress, job dissatisfaction, and mental health problems such as anxiety or depression. Low back pain is often classified as “acute” (lasting less than four weeks), “subacute” lasting 4 to 12 weeks), or “chronic” lasting more than 12 weeks).

While most episodes of acute pain resolve quickly, some people experience pain that lasts longer. In this article, we will talk with you about acute lower back pain.

Anatomy

To understand how pain can develop, it is helpful to understand the basic anatomy. Our back is made up of bones, muscles, nerves, and other tissues that work together to help you stand and lean. The bones of the lower back are called vertebrae, which together form the spinal column. The spine protects the spinal cord, the part of the central nervous system that controls your ability to feel and move.

Vertebrae stacked one on top of the other. The spinal cord passes through openings at the back of the vertebrae, and small nerves (called nerve roots) exit the spinal cord and pass through the gaps on the sides of the vertebrae.

The nerve roots to the lower back and legs are collectively referred to as ponytail. Between each pair of vertebrae in the spine is a disk consisting of a hard outer tissue and a gel-like inner pulp – the nucleus pulposus. These discs protect the bones by acting as cushions or shock absorbers.

The vertebrae are held together by ligaments and tendons, which allows the vertebrae to move together as the spine curves forward, backward, and side to side. The vertebrae are numbered from top to bottom. For example, the upper first lumbar vertebra is called the L1 vertebra. Low back pain occurs in the area of ​​the lumbar and sacral vertebrae, most often in L4, L5 and S1.

Causes of back pain

• Non-specific pain in back . Most people (over 85%) have what doctors call “non-specific” low back pain, which means that the pain is not caused by a specific disease, abnormality, or serious spinal injury. This pain most often occurs as a “shooting” after physical activity (eg, lifting a heavy object, shoveling, or bending over). This type of pain is most often a tension in one or more muscles in the lower back and can be severe. This type of back pain usually goes away on its own within a few weeks. To feel better, you can: apply heat and avoid bed rest. Returning to activity 2-3 days after the onset of pain may help speed recovery.
• Serious potential causes . Rarely, back pain is caused by a potentially serious spinal disorder, such as an infection, tumor, or a condition called cauda equina syndrome, which causes leg weakness and bowel or bladder dysfunction, as well as back pain. Other potential causes include vertebral (spinal) compression fractures, in which one or more vertebrae break as a result of weakening and thinning of the bones due to osteoporosis. People with these problems usually have other risk factors or symptoms in addition to low back pain.
  Sometimes back pain is caused by specific physical changes associated with the body’s normal aging process and changes in the vertebrae caused by upright posture.
• Degenerative disease disc ( osteochondrosis ). With age, the aging of the spine gradually occurs – small cracks and tears develop, and fluid is lost in the intervertebral discs. This can lead to changes in adjacent vertebrae, including the formation of bone spurs (areas of bone growth). This phenomenon is called “osteochondrosis”. Calling this condition a “disease” is somewhat misleading because these changes occur with normal aging. Although disc changes can cause back pain, many people with osteochondrosis do not have symptoms.
• Protrusion and herniated disc ( protrusion , extrusion ). Excessive wear of the intervertebral discs can lead to disc protrusion, in which the outer covering is weakened and the disc bulges. In many people, bulging discs are seen on imaging studies (computed tomography [CT] and magnetic resonance imaging [MRI]), but they do not have back pain. However, some people may develop sciatica (pain that radiates down the back of the leg) if a bulging disc compresses a peripheral nerve root.
• Herniated disc . As a result of osteochondrosis, the outer covering of the cartilage of the intervertebral disc is weakened or torn, and the soft inner tissue is pushed outward. Herniated discs can cause leg pain or weakness if the disc presses on a nerve root. However, herniated discs are also found on imaging studies (CT and MRI) in people without back pain. Herniated discs usually heal over time as the body breaks down excess disc material, relieving pressure or irritation on the nerve.
• Osteoarthritis . Osteoarthritis can affect the so-called facet joints, which connect the vertebrae to each other. This condition, known as facet joint arthropathy, can lead to bony growths around the joint and cause lower back pain. However, like osteochondrosis, facet joint arthropathy is very common with age, but many people with this condition do not have symptoms.
• Spondylolisthesis is a condition in which one of the vertebrae of the lower spine moves forward in relation to the other. Spondylolisthesis is usually caused by stress on the joints of the lower back and may be associated with facet joint arthropathy. While this condition can cause lower back pain and sciatica, it may not cause any symptoms at all.
• Spinal stenosis is a condition in which the spinal canal (the open space inside the vertebrae) is narrowed. It is often caused by bone spurs, which can occur in older people with osteoarthritis. Some people with spinal stenosis have no symptoms, while others experience pain in their lower legs when walking; this condition is known as neurogenic intermittent claudication.
• Ankylosing spondylitis . In younger people, lower back pain may be due to an inflammatory condition called ankylosing spondylitis. People with this condition often experience stiffness in the back in the morning and pain that improves with activity. Over time, if left untreated, ankylosing spondylitis can cause the bones of the spine to fuse together, reducing range of motion.
• Occupational pain in the back . Occasionally, back pain is related to occupational factors. These include poor posture while sitting or standing, sitting or standing for long periods of time, driving long distances, improper lifting technique, and frequently lifting excessively heavy loads. Low back pain is just as common among workers who sit for long periods of time as it is among people whose jobs involve lifting heavy weights.

Diagnostics.

Most people with low back pain recover within a few weeks and do not require imaging studies such as X-ray/MRI/CT. These tests come with some risks and are not useful for most people with low back pain.

• X-ray may be recommended in certain cases, such as people with risk factors for osteoporosis-related vertebral compression fractures or suspected ankylosing spondylitis, or if there is a history of cancer. X-rays expose the body to radiation, which is one of the reasons why they are not usually performed unless a specific problem is suspected. Radiography does not show protrusions, hernias, or spinal stenosis. Other common conditions such as osteochondrosis and facet joint arthropathy can be seen on x-rays, but these are common problems that are often not the cause of back pain as they occur in people without back pain.

• CT and MRI provide detailed images of the soft tissues and bony structures of the back. CT or MRI is usually needed to diagnose a protrusion or herniated disc or spinal stenosis. One of these tests may be recommended if there are risk factors or signs of infection or cancer, if surgery is being considered, or if low back pain persists for more than four to six weeks and the cause is unclear. Most people with low back pain do not need a CT or MRI. Disc and spinal anomalies are common even among people without low back pain. In fact, a herniated disc is seen on a CT scan or MRI in 25 percent of people without low back pain. Detection of an abnormality on imaging may lead to further testing and treatment that may not be helpful. A CT scan also exposes the body to radiation (even more so than x-rays). The action of MRI is based on magnetic fields and does not expose to radiation.

Treatment acute pain in the lower back

How can you help yourself? If acute low back pain is not caused by a serious condition, it usually resolves fairly quickly, even if there is a protrusion or herniated disc. However, lower back pain can make it difficult to do your normal activities, and it can be frustrating that you just have to wait for things to pass. Below are some simple steps to help ease the pain.

Stay active . Many people fear that they will hurt their back further or delay recovery by staying active. However, staying as active as possible is the best thing you can do for your back. If you have severe pain, you may need to rest for a day or two. It may be most comfortable to lie on your back with a pillow under your knees and your head and shoulders elevated. To sleep, you can lie on your side with the top of your knee bent and a pillow between your legs. However, prolonged bed rest is not recommended. Studies have shown that people with low back pain recover faster when they stay active. Movement helps relieve muscle spasms and prevents loss of muscle strength. While you should avoid strenuous activities and sports while you are in pain, it is perfectly normal to continue with your daily activities and light exercise such as walking. If certain activities cause you too much back pain, try something else.

Heat – Using a heating pad or warm compress may help with lower back pain for the first few weeks. It’s not clear if cold helps, but some people may find that it temporarily relieves pain.

Modifications of to work . Most experts recommend that people with low back pain continue to work for as long as possible, avoiding prolonged standing or sitting and heavy lifting. If your job doesn’t allow you to sit or stand comfortably, you may need to take time off or sick leave while you recover. When you are
standing at work, it may be helpful to step on a block of wood with one foot (and periodically alternate foot on the block).

Painkillers drugs . You can try over-the-counter medicines to help relieve pain. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen and naproxen work better than other pain medications for lower back pain and cause less damage to the body. If you do take painkillers, it may be more effective to take the dose on a regular basis for three to five days, rather than using the medicine only when your pain becomes unbearable.

Exercises . Starting a new exercise program immediately after a new episode of low back pain will not hasten recovery from an acute episode. However, there is evidence that exercise is beneficial for people with chronic back pain.

Psychotherapy . In some cases, mental health problems may contribute to low back pain. In addition, some people find it difficult to cope with lower back pain. Psychological therapy has mainly been studied in the context of the treatment of long-term (chronic) back pain; however, it may be helpful for some people with acute pain as well.

Other treatments

• Corsets and suspenders. Although supportive clothing can relieve some low back pain, it is usually not effective. In addition, wearing a corset for a long time relaxes the muscles, and after removing the load on them increases, which can lead to increased pain.
• Change to a firmer mattress. People often wonder if sleeping on a firmer mattress can help prevent or cure lower back pain. Small studies have shown that using a less firm mattress can relieve pain; however, there is insufficient evidence to support switching to any particular type of sleeping surface.

Operation . Only a minority of people with low back pain will need surgery. Surgery is needed if there are signs of cauda equina syndrome (a problem with the nerves at the base of the spinal cord), another serious back disorder such as a tumor or infection, or severe weakness due to spinal stenosis or nerve root compression; however, such situations are not common.

Surgery may be considered for recurrent nerve root compression due to a herniated disc or spinal stenosis when other (non-surgical) treatments have failed. Your neurologist may refer you to a neurosurgeon if you have:

• Increasing neurological problems (eg, weakness in limbs)
• Loss of sensation (numbness) or bladder and bowel problems
• No improvement after four to six weeks of conservative treatment, with persistent and severe sciatica and signs of nerve root involvement.

Prophylaxis

There may be relapses after an initial episode of acute low back pain . The best way to reduce the risk of a second episode is to stay active.

These can include aerobic exercise that improves cardiovascular health (such as walking, jogging, or swimming), as well as specific exercises to strengthen the muscles of the hips and trunk.

The abdominal muscles are especially important for supporting the lower back and preventing back pain. There is no specific exercise program that is best for preventing back pain. Your best bet is to try and find activities that you enjoy that engage the various muscles in and around your lower back.

Also helpful:

Use proper technique when lifting heavy objects. People with low back pain should learn how to bend over and lift heavy objects properly. When lifting a heavy object, keep your knees bent and your abdominal muscles tense so as not to strain the weaker muscles in your lower back.