Low Back Pain Treatment

The pain and debilitating effects of lower back pain are usually treatable, although chronic back pain can sometimes be more challenging to manage. The good news is that, because lower back pain is such a common problem, considerable research and trials of a variety of treatment programs has been undertaken in the quest to offer effective relief to sufferers. 

The prevalence of lower back pain is due to the fact that this area of the back is more mobile than other sections of the spine. Lower back pain problems are often related to movement or, conversely, under-use of the relevant muscles. For minor muscle strains, rest is the cure, though full treatment will involve considering the causes. These include poor sporting technique or bad posture linked to sedentary lifestyles or sustained computer use, for example.  

Exercises and stretching can help prevent back muscle problems and can assist in other conditions. For example, weak stomach muscles can place extra strain on the musculature of the lower back. Many degenerative processes affecting the back and spine are not diseases as such, but normal age-related decline. Keeping the muscles toned and avoiding inactivity are helpful in these cases.

For more serious injuries, physiotherapy and other physical treatments, such as osteopathy and chiropractic, are sometimes necessary for physical rehabilitation. Kinesiology and use of the Alexander Technique can help with postural problems. Other physical therapies that can help victims of lower back pain include forms of massage. Some trials have shown acupressure to be of superior value.  

Active disease will demand other treatment to control or eliminate the problem causing the pain. Drug treatments can help address the root causes in some conditions, such as osteoporosis and arthritic diseases. Medication is also important in managing the pain resulting from lower back problems. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are usually the drug of choice. Ibuprofen is one such drug that has both an analgesic (pain-killing) and anti-inflammatory effect. TENS machines, which use electrical impulses to relieve pain, are a non-drug pain management option.  

Psychological therapies are sometimes recommended, especially if patients are severely debilitated or if they are battling to cope with their lower back pain. Cognitive therapies may help people to manage the burden of pain, as well as the depression which can attend physical disability. Some conditions causing lower back pain are improved with exercise and psychological support can help sufferers to maintain a positive outlook and stay with the programs on offer. 

Surgery may be required in some cases of lower back pain. Slipped discs, disintegrating vertebrae and nerve entrapment conditions, such as Cauda Equina Syndrome, may demand rapid surgical attention. Cancer of the spine is an uncommon cause of back pain, but it too will clearly demand aggressive intervention. 

Sufferers of lower back pain may also opt for a variety of alternative health therapies. Though some will be of no utility if the problem is active disease, many fields of alternative medicine offer techniques for pain management that will complement conventional medical treatments.