Lower back pain is one of the many physical signs that we are aging. Treating lower back pain starts with understanding the cause of the pain. Once we know what is causing the pain, we can begin to put together a treatment plan to help treat your pain effectively.
Causes of lower back pain
Lower back pain can be triggered by poor sitting posture. Lifting heavy objects without the right support can cause lower back pain. Bending down to play with a small child can cause lower back pain. At some point, we will all experience lower back pain. It is very common. The lower back supports the entire upper body. It is also vital in controlling our movements in our lower body.
Some of the most common causes of lower back pain include:
- Pulled or strained muscle from over-exertion
- Spinal condition such as a bulging or herniated disc
- Pinched nerve caused by poor posture
- Weakened core muscles allowing the spine to move out of alignment
- Many more
Before you and your doctor can discuss treatment options, your doctor will determine the cause of your lower back pain. This may require a physical test as well as an X-Ray or MRI. Once the cause of your pain has been decided, your doctor can recommend the best treatment option for your condition.
Treating lower back pain with physical therapy
Passive physical therapy treatments include heat and ice packs on the lower back muscles. Heating pads can bring great relief to stiff muscles. Warm muscles move better and have better blood flow.
Active physical therapy treatment is more specific than passive physical therapy. These treatments include certain stretches and exercises to relieve the pain. Being active is one the best things you can do for lower back pain. Manual therapy can effectively improve mobility in muscles and joints.
Many patients make the mistake of giving up their active lifestyle at the onset of lower back pain. Maintaining parts of your active lifestyle is recommended when treating lower back pain because inactivity can cause muscles to become stiff from lack of use.
At Panther Physical Therapy, we understand that lower back pain can alter your life. We want to put together a treatment plan to help you find relief. If you are ready to stop letting lower back pain control your life, please call or visit the Panther Physical Therapy clinic nearest to you today.
Tags: back pain treatment, Lower back pain, Manual therapy, Physical Therapist, Physical Therapy