What Causes Low-Back Pain?

The most common issue affecting the working population is low-back pain. This job-related issue is one of the challenges facing productivity in workplaces because it limits movement and may even cause disability. Seeking proper treatment for low back pain in Tampa is vital to deal with the cause and eliminate discomfort in order to help patients resume work or do the things they love.

What are the causes of low-back pain?

The cause is an essential factor to consider because it plays a role in determining the appropriate treatment approach for your situation. Some of the leading causes of low-back pain include:

• Strains

Constant activity can put pressure that accumulates on the muscles and ligaments in your back. Over time, the tissues become tense and may begin to ache. Muscle spasms and stiffness are the significant symptoms regarding this cause of low-back pain.

• Spinal disc injury

Cartilage acts as a cushion to spinal discs. However, the cartilage may sometimes push against the spinal cord and extend further outside the spinal vertebra into nerve roots, causing debilitating compression. Activities like heavy lifting initiate twisting in the lower back, which results in herniated discs. Moreover, when the herniated discs press on a specific nerve such as the sciatic, this condition is known as sciatica, another widespread cause of back pain.

• Spinal stenosis

The spinal column in some patients may begin to decrease in size. The resulting pressure on the spinal cord and nerves is a condition commonly known as spinal stenosis. This condition usually causes further nerve root compression, causing aching/cramping, numbness, and weakness. Most patients report having worsened symptoms when doing activities like walking or standing and feeling relief when resting.

• Congenital conditions

Innate issues like spinal curvature abnormalities usually cause patients to maintain a poor posture that can be detrimental to the health of their spine, putting pressure on specific tissues thus causing symptoms like pain.

• Other medical conditions

Diseases like arthritis, fibromyalgia, spondylitis, and spondylosis degrade the spine’s integrity and other tissues in the back, causing pain. Back pain can also arise from kidney and bladder problems or conditions like pregnancy and endometriosis.

How can you prevent low back pain?

The best way to prevent back injury is to ensure that you remain physically active by exercising regularly and avoiding sitting or standing for too long. Moreover, posture is one of the most crucial determinants of back health. Maintain an upright position, especially when working, to avoid putting pressure on certain parts of your back.

What is the diagnosis and treatment of low back pain?

Medical professionals usually start by conducting a thorough physical assessment of a patient, including a comprehensive medical and family history review. The physical exam gives specific information such as range of motion which will help your doctor understand the severity of your condition. Imaging tests like MRIs and X-rays detect internal problems, and your doctor will use them to visualize the structure and functionality of the low-back tissues.

Treatment of low back pain at the Osteoporosis and Rheumatology Center of Tampa Bay includes medications, physical therapy, or the use of specific medical devices. Surgery is necessary in severe cases to fix spinal protrusions exerting pressure on your back.