Most people think that their lower back pain was caused by an injury, for example lifting something too heavy. As we grow older we do in general become less fit and so this is often the cause, although there are many other things can cause it as well. Another common reason is an old bed that no longer gives you enough support or just a worn out mattress. Sometimes all it takes is just sleeping in an unusual position and you end up with lower back pain. Other times lower back problems can be caused by unusual movements, especially if you are attempting to push, pull or lift something while twisting awkwardly. Just think about trying to lift an unhelpful child out of a car! If you, like many others, spend a lot of time sitting or lying still, that alone can lead to lower back pain as your muscles become weaker and unable to cope with 'usual' daily life.
However the injury occurs, lower back pain can seriously affect your life. Every movement can hurt, and even simple tasks, such as caring for personal hygiene, making a sandwich or light housekeeping, can be excruciating.
You may sometimes fear going to the doctor for your back pain. You may have friends and family who have experienced back surgery that may or may not have cured the problem. If you have no insurance, you may find that doctor visits are expensive, and then the doctor may simply tell you to rest and take pain medications.
Many people try natural back pain remedies. These cures may involve stretching, moist heat, massage and ice packs. The majority of back injuries require no medical intervention and can be alleviated by these non-invasive back pain cures. However, knowing when to finally break down and go to the doctor is helpful.
When to See a Doctor for Your Lower Back Pain
1. If fever or painful urination accompanies your lower back pain, you may have a urinary tract infection. You will need to see a doctor for an antibiotic prescription to cure the infection.
2. If an accident or fall caused your back pain, you should see a doctor. Your pain could be a sign of a more serious injury. At the very least, the doctor will be able to rule out any internal injuries or serious problems that could get worse over time.
3. If you are having bowel or bladder control issues along with back pain, you may have a serious problem with the cauda equina, an important nerve in the back. This is an emergency situation, so you should not wait for a normal doctor's appointment. You should go to the closest emergency room as soon as possible.
4. Lower back pain that radiates down the leg can indicate sciatica. Sciatica occurs when spinal structures press on a nerve. Your doctor can inform you about the treatment options for sciatica, and it is unlikely that natural back pain cures will be effective for it.
5. If your back pain is accompanied by numbness or tingling, you should see a doctor to make sure that you have not damaged a nerve. Additionally, if your back pain is accompanies by leg weakness, a trip to the doctor is in order.
6. For simple back strains, you should see at least some improvement over a period of time. If your back pain is no better after two or three weeks of natural treatments, you may want to see your doctor.
7. If your back pain is so severe that you cannot stand it or it keeps you from sleeping at night, you should make an appointment to see your doctor. Severe, unmanageable pain can be a sign of serious problems.
Most lower back pain is treatable by natural remedies, but you should know the signs of serious issues. Yoga, stretching, moist heat, ice and gentle exercise will do nothing to alleviate lower back pain caused by major injuries or serious medical problems, and delaying treatment can cause long-term complications. Knowing these warning signs can help you to understand when you have a problem that needs medical intervention and when you can allow your body to heal naturally.
