Low back pain
Definition:
Lombalgie, commonly known as lumbago or low back pain, refers to pain or discomfort localized in the lower back region, specifically between the ribs and the pelvis. It is a prevalent condition that affects people of all ages and can range from mild discomfort to severe, debilitating pain.
Principal causes:
Muscle strain: Overuse, poor posture, or sudden movements can strain the muscles and ligaments in the lower back, leading to pain and stiffness.
Herniated or bulging discs: The discs between the vertebrae of the spine can bulge or herniate, putting pressure on nearby nerves and causing pain.
Degenerative disc disease: Wear and tear on the spinal discs over time can lead to degeneration, resulting in pain and reduced flexibility.
Spinal stenosis: Narrowing of the spinal canal can compress the nerves in the lower back, causing pain, numbness, or weakness in the legs.
Scoliosis: Abnormal curvature of the spine can lead to muscle imbalances and strain on the lower back muscles, resulting in pain.
Symptoms:
Localized pain: Pain or discomfort in the lower back region, which may be dull, achy, or sharp in nature.
Stiffness: Reduced flexibility and stiffness in the lower back, particularly after periods of inactivity or upon waking in the morning
Radiating pain: Pain that radiates from the lower back down one or both legs, often referred to as sciatica, which can be accompanied by numbness, tingling, or weakness in the affected leg(s).
Muscle spasms: Involuntary muscle contractions in the lower back, which may exacerbate pain and limit mobility.
Difficulty with daily activities: Pain or discomfort that interferes with activities such as bending, lifting, or walking
Our Treatment as a EvivaPHYSIO:
Pain management: Over-the-counter pain medications such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or acetaminophen may help alleviate pain and reduce inflammation (if necessary).
Heat or ice therapy: Applying heat packs or ice packs to the affected area can help reduce pain and inflammation.
Physical therapy: Specific exercises and stretching techniques to strengthen the muscles supporting the spine, improve flexibility, and promote proper posture.
Manual therapy: Hands-on techniques such as massage, spinal manipulation, or mobilization performed by a qualified healthcare provider to relieve muscle tension and improve spinal alignment.
Lifestyle modifications: Making changes to daily habits and activities, such as maintaining proper posture, avoiding heavy lifting, and incorporating regular exercise, can help prevent recurrent episodes of low back pain.
In severe or persistent cases of lombalgie, other treatment options such as epidural steroid injections, nerve blocks, or surgery may be considered.
The prognosis for lombalgie depends on various factors including the underlying cause, severity of symptoms, and individual response to treatment. In most cases, low back pain improves with conservative measures and self-care strategies. However, it is important to seek medical attention if low back pain persists or worsens, or if it is accompanied by other concerning symptoms such as numbness, weakness, or loss of bowel or bladder control. Early intervention and appropriate management can help alleviate pain, improve function, and prevent long-term complications.