Low back pain is one of the most common problems people have
in the
United States.
About 80 percent of people have at least one episode of low back pain during
their lifetime. Low back pain can affect the back anywhere below the ribs and
above the legs. The lower back is the connection between the upper and lower
body, and it bears most of the body’s weight. Because of these roles, it is
easily injured when you lift, reach, or twist.
Low back problems affect the spine's flexibility, stability,
and strength, which can cause pain, discomfort, and stiffness.
Symptoms of low back pain may include:
-
Tenderness, pain, and
stiffness in the lower back
-
Pain that spreads into the
buttocks or legs
-
Having a hard time standing
up or standing in one position for a long time
-
Discomfort while sitting
-
Weakness and tired legs while
walking
Low back pain is often caused by overuse, strain, or injury. For instance,
people often hurt their backs playing sports or working in the yard, being
jolted in a car accident, or lifting something too heavy. Aging also plays a
part. Your bones and muscles tend to lose strength as you age, which increases
your risk of injury. The spongy discs between the bones of the spine may suffer
from wear and tear and no longer provide enough cushion between the bones. A
disc that bulges or breaks open (herniated disc) can press on nerves, causing back pain. In some people, low
back pain is the result of arthritis, broken vertebrae caused by bone loss,
illness, or a spine problem you were born with.
To relieve their pain, many people take over-the-counter medications—either
acetaminophen or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs, including
aspirin, naproxen, and ibuprofen). Often muscle relaxants or anti inflammatory
drugs only provide temporary relief from pain and can sometimes cause adverse
side effects.
Acupuncture, among the oldest healing practices in the world, is part of
traditional Chinese medicine. Acupuncture can offer complete low back pain
relief naturally with no adverse side effects. The sooner the treatment
begins, the quicker the pain relieves. If you would like to pursue this form of
treatment or information, please contact us.