Low Back Pain.

Low back pain is a common human experience — almost 90% of common man has it at some point in his lifetime. The lower back, which starts below the ribcage, is called the lumbar region. Pain here can be intense and is one of the most common causes of missed work. Usually it gets better on its own. When it doesn’t, we are there to help you.

Symptoms of Low Back Pain

Dull ache, stabbing or shooting sensation may be the symptoms you experience in Low Back. The pain may make it hard to move or stand up straight.

Acute back pain comes on suddenly, often after an injury from sports or heavy lifting.

Pain that lasts more than three months is considered chronic.

If your pain is not better within 48-72 hours, you should consult a doctor.

If pain is severe and associated with loss of movement of legs, bowel bladder incontinance, tingling and loss of sensation of leg or foot contact your doctor immediately.

Back Pain Culprit: Your Job

If your job involves lifting, pulling, or anything that twists the spine, it may contribute to back pain. However, sitting at a desk all day, poor posture and overweight mya contribute.

Back Pain Culprit: Your Bag

Although you may wear your purse, backpack, or briefcase over your shoulder, it is the lower back that supports the upper body — including any additional weight you carry. So an overstuffed bag can strain the lower back, especially if you carry it day after day. If you must tote a heavy load, consider switching to a wheeled briefcase.

Back Pain Culprit: Herniated Disc

The spine’s vertebrae are cushioned by gel-like discs that are prone to wear and tear from aging or injuries. A weakened disc may rupture or bulge, putting pressure on the spinal nerve roots. This is known as a herniated disc and can cause intense pain

Who’s at Risk for Low Back Pain?

Most people get their first taste of low back pain in their 30s. The odds of additional attacks increase with age. Other reasons your low back may hurt include:

• Being overweight
• Inactive lifestyle
• Jobs that require heavy lifting

Home Care for Low Back Pain

A heating pad or warm baths may provide temporary pain relief.

Medications

Mild back pain often feels better with over-the-counter pain relievers. Pain-relieving creams may be helpful for muscle aches. For severe pain or chronic pain, your doctor may recommend prescription medication.

Injections

If simpler therapies and medications aren’t helping, your doctor may recommend injections to the back. One procedure, called a nerve root block, targets irritated nerves. Injections for back pain usually contain steroid medication

Surgery

If long-lasting back pain is interfering with your daily life, and other treatments have not provided relief, you may be a candidate for surgery. Depending on the cause of your pain, a surgeon may remove a herniated disc, widen the space around the spinal cord, and/or fuse two spinal vertebrae together.

Physical Therapy

If back pain has left you inactive for a long time, a rehabilitation program can help you strengthen your muscles and get back to your daily activities. A physical therapist can guide you through stretches, strength exercises, and low-impact cardio that will help you be fitter without straining your back.

Preventing Low Back Pain

There’s no sure way to prevent back pain as you age, but there are steps you can take to lower your risk:

• Stay at a healthy weight.
• Exercise regularly.
• Lift with your legs, not your back.
• Make sure your work station position isn’t contributing to your pain

Dr.Vinod Jogendra Shahoo,
Specialist Orthopedic,
Thumbay Hospital Daycare, Rolla

For appointments contact us through

Phone: +971 6 5440555
Email: thdaycare.shj@thumbayhospital.ae
Online: www.appointments.thumbay.net
Location: Thumbay Hospital Daycare, Sharjah (Rolla), Opposite to Rolla Mall, Sharjah United Arab Emirates