Nearly everyone experiences lower back pain at some point in their lives; it is one of the most common discomforts! For some people, this issue is mild and temporary. For others, it can become an ongoing health issue that has major consequences for their quality of life. How can you tell if your back pain is serious? This blog post provides some helpful information.
What Causes Low Back Pain?
Pain in the lower back can have a wide range of causes, some of which will heal on their own without medical intervention. For example, you might have a mild strain or sprain in the soft tissues around your spine. A bulging disc (also called a herniated disc), while very painful, is also likely to heal on its own.
Other causes of back pain include injuries like fractures, serious strains and sprains, degenerative conditions, and tumors. Many pregnant women also struggle with low back pain.
Do you Need to See a Doctor?
You might try addressing your back pain at home. Some people find that rest, ice, and avoiding certain movements can relieve discomfort and promote healing. However, you should not hesitate to seek medical attention if:
- The pain started after an injury, such as a fall or car accident.
- The pain is interfering with your ability to carry out basic tasks, such as walking, standing, sitting, or cooking.
- The pain is getting worse.
- The pain lasts for 6 weeks or longer.
- The pain radiates down your leg.
- You have other symptoms, such as fecal or urinary incontinence, a fever, or unexplained weight loss.
Treatment for Low Back Pain
It is possible to find significant relief from lower back pain if you visit a qualified musculoskeletal physician. The best treatment depends on the cause of your discomfort, but some possible recommendations include:
- Exercises or manual treatments, such as physical therapy, osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT), or chiropractic care.
- Injections, such as steroids, nerve blocks, or regenerative medicine. Regenerative medicine options include therapies like stem cells, platelet-rich plasma (PRP), and prolotherapy. These treatments are designed to boost your body’s ability to heal itself.
- Surgery is a last resort and is only suitable for certain back issues, such as severe disc herniation.
If your lower back pain is interfering with your life, it should be taken seriously! Do not hesitate to seek help from a professional medical team.
Meet the Practice
Dr. Paul Tortland, DO, is a sports physician and a leader in the field of regenerative medicine. Our practice offers a range of non-surgical therapies for lower back pain and many other types of musculoskeletal problems. If you are looking to find relief from persistent aches and pains, we are ready to serve you! Contact our Glastonbury office at 860-430-9690.