Low back pain: types, risk factors and effective habits

Back pain is one of the most common diagnoses in orthopedic consultations, affecting approximately 80 out of 100 people. It's very likely you'll experience it at some point in your life. This pain is located in the lumbar region, that is, in the lower back and waist, and can radiate to the buttocks and thighs.

In most cases, low back pain is of mechanical-postural origin, meaning it's not always related to a hernia or specific injury. Many people with low back pain have postural alterations, causing the body to adopt positions that may seem comfortable at the moment but generate more pain in the long term.

What happens in the lumbar discs?

The intervertebral discs are divided into five and play a fundamental role in distributing compression loads on the spine. They act as shock absorbers, absorbing impacts and maintaining space between vertebral bodies, providing flexibility to the spine. Their main source of nutrition comes from the endplates, through fluid absorption during spinal movements. However, exposure to excessive forces and prolonged high-pressure postures, such as standing or sitting for long periods, can hinder this nutrition process. Although their functions are protective, they are very susceptible to hernias and other disc disorders.

Acute, subacute or chronic low back pain? Main differences

Acute low back pain

This is a sudden pain in the lower back, which may manifest as a pop followed by intense pain lasting less than 6 weeks. It's usually associated with intense physical efforts, poor posture or sudden movements.

Treatment:

Relative rest: Avoid activities involving heavy efforts.

Medication: Anti-inflammatories.

Physical therapy: Gentle exercises to strengthen back muscles.

Alternative therapies: Cold or hot compresses, massages and acupuncture.

Subacute low back pain

Occurs after the acute phase and is characterized by persistent discomfort in the lower back for a period of 6 weeks to 3 months.

Treatment:

Strengthening exercises: Specific rehabilitation programs. Medication: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatories and pain relievers. Complementary therapies: Electrotherapy, manual therapy and Lumbar Radiofrequency: Technique that uses electromagnetic waves to generate heat in body tissues, aiming to relieve pain, improve blood circulation and reduce inflammation.

Chronic or severe low back pain

It's a persistent pain lasting more than 3 months that can become disabling. This type of pain can be debilitating and requires a more intensive treatment approach.

Treatment:

Multidisciplinary program: Coordination between specialist doctor and physiotherapist. Medication: Strong pain relievers and muscle relaxants. Interventional procedures: Lumbar radiofrequency for chronic pain relief.

Neuropathic low back pain

It occurs due to compression or damage to nerves from disc herniations or spinal stenosis. It's characterized by intense pain in the lower back that may radiate to the legs and buttocks, accompanied by hypersensitivity to touch.

Treatment:

Injections: Anti-inflammatory to reduce nerve inflammation.

Medication: Neuropathic pain relievers.

Physical therapy: Exercises to decompress affected nerves.

Lumbar radiofrequency: Procedure to relieve neuropathic pain.

Factors that contribute to low back pain

Height and weight: Overweight increases the load on the fifth lumbar vertebra and sacrum, increasing the risk of low back pain.

Smoking.

Physically heavy work.

Static work postures.

Repetitive movements without rest.

Frequent bending and twisting of the trunk.

Sudden lifting and movements.

How to maintain a healthy back

Having a healthy back doesn't just mean maintaining an upright posture, but also being aware of our movements and habits.

Postural hygiene measures:

Every 45 minutes, stand up and stretch if you spend long periods in the same position. Sleep on a firm mattress, with a pillow between your knees if you sleep on your side, or on your back.

When sitting, support your back against the chair backrest.

To lift an object from the floor, bend your hips and knees instead of bending your back.

If you need to move something heavy, hold it close to your chest.

If possible, divide the load into smaller parts.

At work, use ergonomic chairs and maintain proper posture.

If you spend a lot of time standing, place one foot on a bench and alternate posture frequently.

Avoid sudden twists of the trunk, better turn with your whole body.

Don't make excessive efforts or forced movements of the trunk.

Consult your specialist doctor if the pain doesn't decrease, if you experience loss of strength or sensitivity in your legs and urinary incontinence

I invite you to write to me if you have any questions, I'm in Tijuana, if you want an orthopedic consultation it will be a pleasure to accompany you, send me a message to schedule one