Lower back pain is a universal human experience and almost everyone has it at some point. About 80 percent of adults experience lower back pain at some point in their lifetimes across the world and in Qatar.
But some small lifestyle changes can make a big difference, said Dr Nebal Mohammed Shaath, Senior Consultant, Orthopedic Surgery at Al Wakra Hospital.
“About 80 to 90 people suffer from lower back pain all over the world. The most common causes of lower back pain are being overweight, lack of exercise and poor posture. For these reasons, lower back pain is frequently brought on by sleeping in the wrong position, heavy lifting, or even standing or lying down in a poor, rounded-back position,” he said.
“A sedentary lifestyle, being overweight and doing less physical activities are also common reasons behind back pain,” he added.
The lower back, which starts below the rib cage, is called the lumbar region. Fortunately, low back pain often gets better on its own. When it doesn't, there are effective treatments.
Symptoms range from a dull ache to a stabbing or shooting sensation. The pain may make it hard to move or stand up straight. Acute back pain comes on suddenly, often after an injury from sports or heavy lifting.
“Picking up things off the floor in the wrong posture is another reason which creates or increases back pain. Never bend over to pick the load. Lower your body to its level just as you toddlers do to pick up things from the floor. Keep your back straight as you lift straight up. Center the load in the space between your shoulders and waist,” said Dr Shaath.
The back pain that lasts more than three months is considered chronic.
Keep in mind that lower back strain can't be blamed for all back pain. There are many other causes, such as slipped discs, fractures, pinched nerves, arthritis, infections, and tumours.
Since some symptoms of lower back strain are similar to those of more serious conditions, it's important to get checked out by a doctor.
If the back pain is from a recent strain or mild injury, a primary care doctor can probably help. But if the pain is severe, ongoing, or accompanied by other symptoms such as numbness or tingling in arms or legs and that needs immediate medical attention.
To diagnose low back strain, the doctor will give a thorough exam. A patient may also need X-rays, MRIs (Magnetic Resonance Imaging), and CT scans. These extra tests may only be needed if the pain doesn't go away on its own or with conservative treatment.
To say good bye to back pain
*Lose the excess weight
*Do regular exercises; walking and swimming
*Look after your back by correct posture, comfortable chair and use firm mattress neither solid nor soft preferably medical one.
