Ouch! My Back Hurts: Understanding and Dealing with Low Back Pain

The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke states that nearly everyone at some point in their life will have back pain which will interfere with work, everyday activities as well as any leisure activities. It is also stated that back pain is the second most common neurological ailment in the United States whereas headaches is listed as the first common.

If anyone has ever suffered the agonizing experience of having low back pain, then they know the impact of having their quality of life affected. It us one of the most annoying and agonizing discomforts that just seems to present at the most unfortunate times. Rushing and stressful events may trigger this type of injury secondary to neglect and carelessness. I think we have all been there.

Often there is no one event that may be the cause of the low back, it may arise from many different sources such as lifting especially if done improperly, sitting, standing, or walking for a long period. Other precipitating factors may also contribute to low back pain such as a fall or a trip.

The most common area to feel pain is in your lower back since this supports most of your body weight, however it can develop on any part of your back as well. Symptoms of low back pain may come on suddenly or gradually, depending on the source or type of injury. The pain may be in one spot or it may radiate down into your buttocks or legs and it may be describes as a dull, burning or sharp pain.

Treatment for low back pain is usually done conservatively, and will consist of applying ice to the area 4 times daily for 20 minutes for the first 48 hours, then moist heat can be used. Alternating the two may be beneficial as well. Over the counter analgesics may also benefit such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen.