Lower Back Pain

Why does my lower back hurt?

Many different activities and movements can lead to lower back pain, especially if the activities are repetitive or you’ve moved in a way different than you’re used to, like lifting a heavy object or moving furniture. Possible triggers of lower back pain include:

• Bending and twisting
• Sitting for long periods
• Lifting, pushing, or pulling a heavy object
• Pushing yourself harder in the gym than normal
• Walking, jogging, or running
• Bending to pick something up
• Coughing or sneezing

Trauma is another possible cause of lower back pain which should be examined by the team immediately. Certain types of lower back pain can indicate more serious conditions, such as herniated discs or fractures that require specific care.

What are the signs of a lower back injury?

Lower back injuries can cause mild to severe pain and discomfort. If you’ve experienced pain for more than three days without relief or your pain is getting worse, it’s best to be evaluated as soon as possible. Other signs of lower back injuries include:

• Local or diffuse pain throughout your back
• Pain spreading up your back or down your legs
• Sharp, shooting pain into your buttocks or legs
• Numbness and tingling in your legs or feet
• Decreased range of motion or stiffness
• Feeling like your back might give out
• Popping, clicking, and cracking in your back

While pinpointing the exact site of your pain can be helpful for diagnostic purposes, the team also understands that sometimes pain can spread or move to different areas of your back. This is why they always perform a thorough consultation and physical exam to assess every possible cause of your pain.

What causes lower back pain?

Lower back pain can be caused by any of the following conditions:

• Intervertebral joint dysfunction
• Sacroiliac joint dysfunction
• Facet joint syndrome
• Sprains or strains
• Arthritis
• Spinal stenosis
• Spondylolisthesis
• Herniated discs

You can experience more than one condition at a time since joint dysfunction can also lead to muscle and ligament pain or irritation.

How is lower back pain treated?

The team provides customized treatment plans to address the specific cause of your pain. Possible treatment options include:

• Chiropractic adjustments
• Soft tissue therapy, including massage
• MLS® laser therapy
• Therapeutic ultrasound
• Spinal decompression
• Active rehabilitation
• Physiotherapy
• Lifestyle counseling

These therapies can be used individually or combined during your treatment to help you recover as quickly as possible.

To schedule a visit for your lower back pain, call White Integrated Health Clinics or book online now.