The lower back portion of our body is a vulnerable part as it acts as the fulcrum between the upper and lower body. Most people nearing the age of 40 and above are plagued by lower back pain. The huge number of remedies available in the market proves beyond doubt the problem is rising. Our lifestyle and work culture need us to sit for long hours in a fixed position. Rarely do we get time to exercise properly. Lack of suppleness in the vertebrae and no muscle strength injures and strains the lower back. As a result, one can experience different types of lower back pain.
Acute lower back pain occurs suddenly. It is usually the result of a damaged muscle, ligament or tendon in the lower back. Sometimes, an accident or an attempt to lift a heavy object can cause injury to one or more vertebrae and lead to lower back pain. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like aspirin and ibuprofen can often treat such acute pain. Physiotherapy, exercise, massage, chiropractic manipulation and acupuncture are quite helpful in providing relief.
Lower back pain can also become a chronic disorder. Its progress usually goes unnoticed as it sets in over a long period of time. It is far more serious than acute lower back pain because the cause behind it includes degenerative disc disease, degenerative arthritis, spinal disc herniation, rheumatoid arthritis and even cancer. Once an X-ray or MRI confirms chronic pain, surgery is usually the only option. When degenerative problems cause the pain, doctors need to cure the disease along with providing low back pain relief.
A lifestyle devoid of normal movements often leads to chronic lower back pain. In such cases, the patient has to adopt a healthy lifestyle. Walking, stretching and other exercises can help to solve the problem as they can strengthen the back. Yoga is very helpful in cases where the spine has lost its natural range of motion and flexibility. Correcting one's sitting and standing postures can also bring some relief. An ergonomically designed office chair has cured many cases of lower back pain.
Effective low back pain relief is obtained from a combination of various remedies and drugs. However, patients need to check with the doctor before trying any drug. Many over-the-counter or OTC drugs like aspirin, ibuprofen and naproxen help to reduce swelling, stiffness and moderate back pain. Topical sprays or creams stimulate the nerves and blood flow and reduce the pain.
Painkillers like codeine, hydrocodone, morphine or oxycodone are used to treat severe and chronic back pain. But they must be used under a doctor's supervision for a short period of time. If the lower back pain does not go after all such treatments, patients need to follow other options like spinal manipulation, acupuncture, traction and biofeedback.
Lower back pain can be extremely painful and should not be taken lightly. Taking medications to get relief from the acute pain is okay only if the doctor doesn't find any serious cause behind the problem. Antidepressants relieve pain and help us to get sleep. It alters the chemicals in the brain to lift the mood. Anticonvulsants are also useful in treating the pain.
