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Lumbar Spine Pain Treatment 

Almost everyone will experience low back pain at some point in their lives. This pain can vary from mild to severe. It can be short-lived or long-lasting. However it happens, low back pain can make many everyday activities difficult to do.

Back pain is different from one person to the next. The pain can have a slow onset or come on suddenly. The pain may be intermittent or constant. In most cases, back pain resolves on its own within a few weeks.

Low Back Pain (Lumbar) FAQ

What Causes Low Back Pain (Lumbar)?

Low back pain can result from **overuse, injury, or age-related changes** in the spine. The most common causes include:

Over-Activity

Muscle soreness from overuse, such as excessive lifting, bending, or sports activities, can cause **temporary stiffness and pain**.

Disc-Related Issues

  • Disc Tear: Small **tears in the outer layer** of the disc (annulus) can lead to chronic pain.
  • Herniated Disc: The **inner core of the disc pushes out**, irritating nearby nerves and causing **sciatica**.
  • Disc Degeneration: As **discs wear down**, vertebrae may rub against each other, leading to **osteoarthritis**.

Spinal Conditions

  • Degenerative Spondylolisthesis: Vertebrae **slip forward** over one another, pressing on nerves.
  • Spinal Stenosis: The spinal canal **narrows**, compressing nerves and causing pain.
  • Scoliosis: Abnormal **spinal curvature** can lead to back pain and leg symptoms.
  • Osteoarthritis: Bone **spurs and inflammation** narrow the spinal canal, worsening pain.

If your **pain is persistent, worsens, or includes numbness, weakness, or weight loss**, consult a doctor.

What Are The Symptoms of Low Back Pain (Lumbar)?

Symptoms can range from mild discomfort to severe pain and mobility limitations.

  • **Pain that worsens with bending, lifting, or prolonged sitting.**
  • **Stiffness and limited range of motion in the lower back.**
  • **Sciatica:** Pain radiating down the buttock and leg.
  • **Muscle spasms** causing sharp or aching pain.
  • **Numbness, tingling, or weakness** in legs or feet (possible nerve involvement).

What Are The Treatment Options For Low Back Pain (Lumbar)?

Nonsurgical Treatment

  • Physical Therapy: Strengthening and stretching exercises to **improve mobility and reduce pain**.
  • Medications: NSAIDs (ibuprofen, naproxen), muscle relaxants, or corticosteroids for **pain and inflammation**.
  • Ice & Heat Therapy: Helps **reduce swelling and muscle stiffness**.
  • Bracing: A lumbar support brace **may provide temporary relief**.
  • Injections:** Epidural steroid injections can **provide short-term pain relief**.

Surgical Treatment

Surgery is **only considered when nonsurgical treatments fail** after 6–12 months.

Spinal Fusion

A **"welding" procedure** that fuses vertebrae together to eliminate motion-related pain.

Disc Replacement

An **artificial disc replaces a damaged one**, allowing more flexibility than fusion.