Lower back pain is a very common condition involving the muscles, nerves, and bones of the back, which is often caused by muscle or ligament strains, but can also stem from disk injuries, arthritis, osteoporosis, or structural problems.
As we age, wear and tear causes degenerative changes in the joints, resulting in pain and sometimes swelling. Some patients may also develop inflammation of the tendons or damage to the muscles that hold your joints together.
Treatment
The good news is that patients usually do not require surgery; they just need the right medication and intensive physiotherapy. Physiotherapy can also be used to treat patients with sciatica (i.e. lower back pain accompanied by shooting pain in the back of the legs). An MRI scan is only necessary if physiotherapy is unsuccessful.
The principle of physiotherapy is to strengthen your muscles, thus stabilising your joints and reducing wear and tear, inflammation and ultimately pain.
Home Remedies & Self-Care
- Rest: Initial rest can help, followed by a gradual return to light activity.
- Heat/Cold Therapy: Apply a cold pack, then switch to heat to relax muscles.
- Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers: Medications like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help manage pain.
- Gentle Exercise: Low-impact activities such as walking, swimming, or
- Pilates can improve symptoms and prevent future episodes.
- Good Posture: Maintain good posture and use lumbar support when sitting.