Various culprits of lower back pain and how you can improve the condition by making just a few adjustments to your sleeping and sitting habits.
Unfortunately, most people, at some point in their lives, have experienced lower back pain. There are different types of back pain:
Sciatica – caused by a bulging or ruptured disc pressing on the nerve as it exits the spinal column in the lower lumbar and irritates the sciatic nerve. This pain will run down one or both legs past the knee and typically into the foot. This type of pain responds well to regular treatment by Physical Therapy but at times may require a doctor to administer an epidural or steroid to reduce inflammation and pain.
Work related strain – If your work requires you to lift heavy things, twist your spine or sit for long periods in the same position you may be adding to your back pain. One of the best solutions to avoid this type of injury is to follow a personalized fitness and strength training program, specially designed for you by your Physical Therapist. Simple habits like incorrect posture when sitting in front of a screen all day or carrying a heavy golf bag can cause back pain and working with your Physical Therapist to correct these old habits and strengthen the surrounding muscles to support these activities will help enormously.
Sports and Workouts – Planning ahead with your Physical Therapist and preparing your body to take on a physical activity is the safest option. Strength and fitness training should always be approached carefully and built up as your body gets stronger and adapts to the movements. You are especially vulnerable to injury if you are inactive during the week and then launch into some type of sport on the weekend.
Chronic Conditions & Herniated Disc
There are several chronic conditions that may also lead to lower back pain and these conditions will need a combination of treatments by your doctor and Physical Therapist. A herniated disc can cause intense pain and will need long term treatment. Aging, wear and tear or even an accident can cause the gel-like substance in between the discs to rupture or bulge putting pressure on the nerve root.
Other chronic conditions like spinal stenosis, spondylitis or fibromyalgia are culprits for lower back pain and need to be carefully treated by your Physical Therapist and doctor.
Speak to a Physical Therapist about your sitting, standing, and sleeping positions to prevent and help with your lower back pain. If just a few adjustments are made you can see great results in minimising your lower back pain. Whether you are a back sleeper, a side sleeper or a tummy sleeper there are always solutions to improve your body alignment.
We hope the above information has been helpful and we are available to answer any further questions should you wish to contact us. The content provided in this blog is for informational purposes only, does not constitute medical advice and should not be relied on for making personal health decisions.
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