Journal of Pain Management & Medicine

Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatment methods of Low Back Pain

Yamaoka Igari^* Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine, Fukushima, Japan
^*Correspondence: Yamaoka Igari, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine, Fukushima, Japan, Email:

Received: 09-Mar-2023, Manuscript No. JPMME-23-20946; Editor assigned: 13-Mar-2023, Pre QC No. JPMME-23-20946 (PQ); Reviewed: 27-Mar-2023, QC No. JPMME-23-20946; Revised: 03-Apr-2023, Manuscript No. JPMME-23-20946 (R); Published: 13-Apr-2023, DOI: 10.35248/2684-1320.23.9.208

Description

Low back pain is a common condition that affects millions of people around the world. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including muscle strains, ligament sprains, herniated discs, or degenerative conditions. Regardless of the cause, low back pain can be debilitating and impact an individual's quality of life.

Causes of low back pain

Low back pain can be caused by a wide range of factors, and it is frequently difficult to determine the cause of the pain. One of the most common causes of low back pain is a muscle strain. Overuse, improper strength training techniques, or sudden movements that carried stress on the lower back all can cause muscle strains. Ligament sprains can also cause low back pain, typically resulting from sudden movements or trauma. Another common cause of low back pain is herniated discs. Discs are the cushioning between each vertebra in the spine. When a disc becomes herniated, the soft center pushes through the exterior, exerting pressure on the back nerves. This can cause pain, tingling, or numbness in the lower back, legs, or feet. Degenerative conditions such as arthritis or osteoporosis can also cause low back pain. These conditions cause the bones and joints in the spine to deteriorate over time, resulting to pain and stiffness.

Diagnosis of low back pain

Diagnosing the cause of low back pain can be a complicated procedure. The first step in diagnosis is a physical examination and an evaluation of the patient's medical history. The doctor will conduct investigations about the patient's symptoms, such as when the pain began, how severe it is, and what activities aggravate or alleviate it. After a physical examination, the physician may order imaging tests such as X-rays, CT scans, or MRI scans to get a closer analyze the spine and its surroundings. These tests can help to identify the cause of the pain, such as a herniated disc or degenerative condition.

Treatment of low back pain

The treatment for low back pain depends on the underlying cause of the pain. In many cases, low back pain can be treated with conservative measures such as rest, and over-the-counter pain medications. Physical therapy can also be helpful in relieving pain and strengthening the muscles in the back. For more severe cases of low back pain, medications such as muscle relaxants or corticosteroids may be prescribed. Injections such as epidural steroid injections or nerve blocks may also be used to help manage pain. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to address the underlying cause of the low back pain. For example, surgery may be recommended for a herniated disc that is enabling on a nerve in the back.

Prevention of low back pain

Preventing low back pain can be difficult, but there are certain steps individuals can perform to reduce their risk. Maintaining good posture, using proper lifting techniques, and staying active can all help to prevent low back pain. Stretching and strengthening exercises can also help keep the muscles in the back strong and flexible. Low back pain is a common condition that can be caused by a wide range of factors. Diagnosing the cause of the pain can be complex, but imaging tests and a physical examination can help to identify the underlying cause. Treatment options depend on the cause of the pain and can range from conservative measures to surgery. Individuals can reduce their risk of developing low back pain by using preventative measures.