Low back pain can be felt in the area below the ribcage and above the legs. It can range from a dull ache to a sharp, stabbing pain. Low back pain can be caused by a variety of factors, including:
- Muscle strains or sprains
- Herniated or bulging discs
- Osteoarthritis or other degenerative conditions
- Poor posture or body mechanics
- Sedentary lifestyle
- Obesity
- Poor physical conditioning
- Injury
Injuries/Conditions that can cause low back pain:
- Muscle Strain: This is a common injury that can be caused by heavy lifting or sudden movements. It can cause muscle spasms and localized pain in the lower back.
- Disc Herniation: The intervertebral discs in the spine can become herniated, causing pressure on nearby nerves and resulting in sharp, shooting pain down the leg.
- Osteoarthritis: This degenerative condition can cause the cartilage in the joints of the spine to wear down, leading to pain and stiffness.
- Spinal Stenosis: This condition occurs when the spinal canal narrows, putting pressure on the nerves and causing pain and weakness in the legs.
- Spondylolisthesis: This is a condition where one vertebra slips out of place onto the vertebra below it. It can cause lower back pain and numbness or weakness in the legs.
- Ankylosing Spondylitis: This is a chronic inflammatory disease that can cause stiffness and pain in the lower back and hips.
- Osteoporosis: This condition causes bones to become brittle and weak, increasing the risk of compression fractures in the spine that can cause back pain.
- Fibromyalgia: This is a condition that causes widespread pain and tenderness, and can be accompanied by fatigue, sleep disturbances, and other symptoms.
Symptoms of Low Back Pain
The symptoms of low back pain can vary depending on the underlying cause, but may include:
- Stiffness or difficulty moving
- Muscle spasms
- Shooting pain down the leg
- Numbness or tingling in the leg or foot
- Weakness in the leg or foot
- Difficulty standing or walking for prolonged periods of time
Treatment Options:
At our physical therapy clinic, we offer a variety of treatment options to help alleviate low back pain. These include:
- Manual Therapy: We use hands-on techniques such as massage, mobilization, and manipulation to relieve pain and improve joint mobility.
- Therapeutic Exercise: We design an individualized exercise program to address muscle imbalances and improve strength, flexibility, and endurance.
- Modalities: We use different modalities like electrical stimulation, heat and ice therapy, and ultrasound to reduce pain and inflammation.
- Patient Education: We provide information on how to manage your low back pain, how to avoid aggravating factors, and how to prevent future injuries.
Our physical therapy clinic is dedicated to helping you get back to the activities you love. Contact us to schedule an appointment and develop a personalized treatment plan that meets your needs.
