What Is Lower Back (Lumbar) Pain?
Lower back pain refers to any pain felt in the back’s lumbar region, which begins right below the ribcage. It is a prevalent condition that most people experience at some point in their lives and can result from various injuries and illnesses. Lower back pain can range from mild to severe and acute to chronic, depending on the underlying cause. Lower back pain can be debilitating can significantly reduce your range of motion. Our goal is to provide you with a personalized treatment plan to help you manage your pain effectively and regain control of your life.
Symptoms of Lower Back (Lumbar) Pain
Lower back pain can vary significantly depending on the underlying cause of it. Identifying and reporting the symptoms can help lead to an accurate diagnosis and successful treatment plan. Lumbar conditions can develop gradually or suddenly, and they can worsen over time. Some of the symptoms include, but are not limited to:
- Dull, aching pain
- Stabbing pain
- Tingling and burning sensations
- Reduced mobility
- Muscle weakness
- Pain down the buttocks, legs, and feet
Causes of Lower Back (Lumbar) Pain
While lower back pain can be caused by a wide range of conditions, disorders, and illnesses, most results from injuries such as muscle sprains or strains. Lifting heavy objects, having excess weight, poor working conditions, and genetics are also risk factors for developing lower back pain. Other conditions include:
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Arthritis:
Arthritis is the general term for the swelling of the joints and connective tissue of the body, causing tenderness and pain. Over a hundred different versions of arthritis have been identified, each with its causes and treatments. The symptoms of arthritis may occur suddenly or over an extended period and worsen as we age.
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Sciatica:
Sciatica refers to the compression or irritation of the sciatic nerve, a long nerve that extends from the lower back, down the buttocks, and into each leg. Sciatica often occurs due to the nerve’s compression, which commonly results from herniated bone spurs, herniated discs, and spinal stenosis.
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Herniated Discs:
A herniated or slipped disc occurs when the rubbery exterior of the disc ruptures, allowing the nucleus to push through the tear. While some herniated discs exhibit no symptoms, some irritate the surrounding nerves and cause pain, numbness, and weakness.
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Lumbar Spinal Stenosis:
The spinal column, made up of bones, soft tissue, and discs, protects the spinal cord. These spinal nerves enable the body to move, feel tactile stimuli, and experience pain. Spinal stenosis occurs when the spinal canal narrows, compressing the spinal cord and causing various issues.
Diagnosing & Treating Lower Back (Lumbar) Pain
Lower back pain can be diagnosed through a variety of tests. A doctor will perform a thorough physical examination during your visit and carefully consider your medical history, including your symptoms. Your physician may then order an MRI, CT scan, or x-rays of your lumbar spine. Once diagnosed, these treatments may be recommended:
- Physical therapy
- Prescription medication
- Epidural steroid injections
- Facet/medial nerve blocks
- Intrathecal pain pumps
- Surgery
If you or anyone you know is currently experiencing symptoms of lower back pain, we highly encourage you to reach out to our team today. Our team of expert pain specialists possesses decades of expertise in chronic pain management and offers a variety of treatments to meet your every need.
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