Low Back Pain

What is Low Back Pain?

Low back pain (LBP) can affect the back anywhere below the ribs and above the legs. This is the most common form of physical disability. An estimated 80 percent of all Americans will suffer from back pain at some point in their lives. It is one of the top reasons that Americans see their doctor. Low back pain is a large medical and financial burden. It is second only to upper respiratory problems as a symptom-related reason for visits to the physician. Low back pain may reflect nerve or muscle irritation or bone lesions.

Low back pain is considered chronic if it persists for more than three months. Many people have a limited range of motion or tender areas. Low back pain is not a specific disease. Rather, it is a symptom that may occur from a variety of different processes.

Cause of Low Back Pain

Most low back pain follows injury or trauma to the back, but pain may also be caused by degenerative conditions such as arthritis or disc disease, osteoporosis or other bone diseases, viral infections, irritation to joints and discs, or congenital abnormalities in the spine. The main cause for low back pain is a strain of the muscles, or other soft structures (eg ligaments and tendons) connected to the back bones (vertebrae). This is the most common form of physical disability.

Low back pain can also result from something simple, like cleaning house or lifting a heavy box, or it can be caused by a diagnosable spine condition like a herniated disc or degenerative disc disease. And sometimes, a patient's back pain that cannot be linked to a cause.

Exercises

Exercise to help relieve back pain. See a physical therapist or other spine specialist for exercises specific to your condition. Exercise such as walking or swimming provides physical conditioning required for a healthy back. Before starting any new exercise program, see your physician for counseling on the best way to begin.

Exercise is the best way to prevent this type of pain from occurring. Exercise is essential for controlling and avoiding back pain. When your muscles are weak and inflexible, you are more likely to hurt. Exercise programs can improve your posture, strengthen you abdominal girdle and back muscles and improve your overall fitness. Experts recommend spending hour at least 3 times per week on aerobic or cardio exercises.