Lower Back Pain Treatment in Friendship, MD
The lower back is defined as the area that begins below the ribs and ends just above the legs. Pain can occur in this region in a number of ways. It can be dull or sharp, local or spread over a large muscle group. Lower back pain can be experienced as muscle spasms or numbness in the leg that extends below the knee.
Lower back pain is defined as acute if it goes away within a couple of weeks. Some conditions may linger for longer periods of time and become chronic. Call (410) 266-3613 or contact Dr. Alan Stuart Weiss online for more information.
Causes of Lower Back Pain
Injury
Because the lower back acts as the bridge between your upper and lower body, it supports much of the body's weight. This makes it highly susceptible to injuries. A simple lifting of an object done improperly could result in a strain or hypertension . When coupled with other conditions such as depression or stress , lower back pain can linger even longer.
Back strain can cause a disc in your spinal column to rupture or bulge, a condition known as a herniated disc. This bulging disc can then put pressure on a nerve leading to pain in other parts of your body, or even impairment of bodily functions.
Aging
As we age our bone strength and muscle flexibility decreases. In regards to the back, these conditions make it easier for an injury to occur. Conditions such as arthritis or osteoporosis can contribute to the weakening of the spine.
Additionally, the discs that act as cushions between the vertebrae lose fluid over time, and don't protect the bones as well.
Genetics
Some of the causes of lower back pain can be caused by a condition you were born with. Some of these include:
- Spinal stenosis: A gradual narrowing of the tube in your spinal column that holds all of the nerves in your back.
- Spondylitis: Chronic infections or inflammation that develop and cause stiffness in the joints of the spine.
- Scoliosis : Abnormal curvature of the spine.
Other Causes
- Poor posture
- Obesity
- Viral infections
- Fibromyalgia
- Buildup of scar tissue from previous injuries
Diagnosis and Treatment
If pain in your lower back is beginning to affect the quality of your life, keeping you from doing the things you love, then it may be time to get help. Call (410) 266-3613 or contact Dr. Alan Stuart Weiss online for more information.
Your doctor will likely begin your visit with a consultation to talk about any factors that may be contributing to your condition including your health history, physical activities, and the type of pain you are experiencing.
Your doctor may perform a physical exam to monitor your range of motion. In cases of chronic pain, an X-ray, CT scan, or MRI may be necessary to seek out internal factors.
Treatment may involve a combination of simple at-home remedies such as ice, heat, and rest, over the counter pain killers, or muscle relaxing medications.
Your doctor may massage the affected area to release tension from your muscles and connective tissues, and teach you exercise to strengthen your core and improve your posture.
Here are a few other techniques that can be effective in relieving lower back pain:
- Acupuncture
- Biofeedback
- Traction
- TENS
- Ultrasound
- Chiropractic care
Annapolis Integrative Medicine
Address
1819 Bay Ridge AveSuite 180
Annapolis, MD 21403
(410) 266-3613
www.annapolisintegrativemedicine.com