Question
Hello! For the past couple of months I have developed a chronic lower back pain, in the lower back area where the arch is it seems just above the tailbone.  When I lay down and put my arm under my back it seems to relieve it some.  Generally, it hurts the most when I am either bending at the waist or laying down, but it has started somewhat also in the sitting position (in a kitchen chair for example)  Is there any advice for dealing with this? I have recently bought a new mattress, but it was the same style I've been sleeping on for 10+ years. I would appreciate it if you could advise.  Thank you.

Answer
Jason:
Yes I think I have some great advice for you. You have described some textbook symptoms that are warning indicators that you have a simple spinal discomfort that can easily turn into something ugly, if you do not take care of it soon. I am confident that a simple physical therapy evaluation of your posture and musculature can reveal a simple plan and home exercise program where you can strengthen your back and learn the proper techniques and how to care for it. I suggest going to a nearby physical therapy clinic and talking to a therpist about this problem, and if you feel confident that they know what they are talking about then make an appointment. Do not see a chiropracter since this is a ligamentous soft tissue issue most likely, and they can make this particular case only worse. The best physical therapists to see are the ones with the intials "MTC" after their name, but don't worry too much if you can't find one of these. I am confident that once you start some simple treatment this achy back will be long gone in 3-4 weeks.
Dr. Jeff Carr DPT,MTC,ATC,CSCS