The region in the human physique, which lies between the upper and lower areas of the body is referred to as the ‘lower back’ and bears much of the weight of the person. This load bearing makes the lower back highly susceptible to injury, especially if lifting heavy items, or twisting around is involved, and it can be extremely painful.

Whilst most people have suffered from pain in this region at some time in their lives, on most occasions it will disappear after a short time following a little self treatment.

Causes of Back Pain.

-          Commonly, lower back pain is caused by overstressing the region due to continual lifting or bending, to pick up items, thus causing back strain.

-          The aging process makes a person more susceptible to back injury as the discs between the vertebrae become worn, a ‘herniated disc’ can cause much back pain.

-          The pain can be caused by osteoporosis (bone loss), arthritis or a compression fracture of the vertebrae in the spine.

-          Depression is often associated with long lasting back pain.

-          In younger people, injuries sustained in sports frequently cause pain in the lower back . . . think of the amount of stress placed on this region of the body by a tennis player.

Sometimes doctors cannot put a specific cause to the pain, but more usually the sufferer can readily identify the direct cause of the pain him/her self, but if a pain is experienced in the lower back without any obvious cause, then a doctor should be consulted.

Doctors will classify back pain is either being Acute, if the pain is suffered for less than three months, or Chronic if the trouble lasts for longer than three months.

Some Common Symptoms of Lower Back Pain.

The symptoms can be directly related to the cause and may include the following-

-          A dull or stabbing pain, which may be felt in one place in the back or spread over a wider area.

-          Pain suddenly being felt and accompanied by muscle stiffness in the region.

-          Sometimes the effect can be felt in the legs, even at below knee level, when numbness and pain can be experienced, with or without back pain. These leg symptoms are often indicative of a problem with the lower spine where pressure is being put on nerves leading to the leg.

Associated with lower back pain is a serious condition known as Cauda Equina Syndrome which occurs if nerves at the end of the spinal cord become trapped or squeezed.

If there is any sign of either numbness or weakness in both of the legs, or there is any problem with bladder or bowel control, the medical treatment should be sought immediately.

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