Back pain has become a synonym for lifestyle today. As we are constantly rushing through life, you hardly have any time for yourself. This constant cycle of rushing about eventually takes a toll on your body. Without realizing, we are harming our body much more than it can take at a time. This has lead to various ‘lifestyle illnesses’ which accompany your hectic schedule. Back pain or the lower back pain to be more precise is one such ‘baggage’ of a stressful lifestyle.
It is estimated that about 80 percent of adults will encounter back pain at some point in their lives. So, what is it about the lower back pain that makes it so prevalent? Let us find out more about the basic structure of the human spine. The human spine is a column of bones that are arranged in an interlocked position. The main importance of the spine lies in the fact that it is meant to protect the all-important spinal cord. The spinal cord is the place where all your nerve-endings eventually end. This entire structure of a column of bones is known as the vertebrae, which is intermitted with the ‘Spinal discs’. The main function of the Spinal disc is to act as a shock absorber. The discs are connected to each other with ligaments. The tendons connect the surrounding muscles with the bones in the surrounding areas; this is basically your entire back in a nutshell. So, let us explore the 6 types of lower back pain symptoms and their causes:
- Dull and Persistent Pain on your back:
If you have been experiencing dull and persistent back pain recently? Well, this could be basically because of your bad or wrong body posture. Be sure to correct your posture and avoid slumping or sitting in an unsupported position. With time, this leads to the dull, persistent pain you have been feeling lately. Usually, if you have a desk job, it could be the sedentary nature of your lifestyle that leads to such lower backaches.
A simple solution could be to opt for an office chair that supports the spinal curve and offers the least stress when sitting for long hours. Also, revamp your office space to be more ergonomic, which will have everything you require within easy reach. It is also recommended to practice stretches every fifteen minutes in order to relieve the stress build up on the back.
- Sharp Pain along with Spasm and Stiffness
If you have been experiencing sharp lower back pain along with spasm and stiffness, well, this could be because of the post-exercise soreness. This is also termed as ‘delayed onset muscle soreness’. This is relatively normal, as your body is simply repairing the muscle fibers that suffer tears during exercises. It is typical for the pain to settle down after 12 to 24 hours, if not then it is time to check out on your fitness regime. Mostly, your exercise is doing you more harm than good. If you have been trying out a new fitness routine, it is recommended that you have a thorough check with an expert. As we all are born with a different system, not all regimes might suit you. Consult a trainer well before you decide on a certain routine.
The resulting pain after an exercise is mainly because your muscles and tendons have suffered a strain in your lower back. You might also sprain the ligaments on your lower back. This results in restrained movements, cramps, stiffness or spasms. You can also use the back support belt to lower your back pain.
- Sharp pains That Travel to Legs and Arms
The rupture disc is a result of your spinal disc suffering a tear resulting in the soft interior ‘pushing’ out wards. This results in sharp pain which travels all the way to your legs and arms. In an extreme case, there might be numbness and weakness in these parts of the body. This condition is also termed as Herniated Disc.
The other reason for the Herniated disc might also be the wear and tear caused due to old age. In such a case, the water is lost from the spinal disc as you age, thus, reducing flexibility and increased chances of rupturing due to strain. Things get worse if the person suffers a fall or injury. The Herniated disc can cause the nearby nerves to go sensitive, thus, affecting the connected regions. This is why you might feel sudden numbness; abrupt pain emerging is strange areas all of a sudden like a leg or an arm. On an extreme level, you might also loose bowel or bladder control, so be sure to get the required help when this occurs.
- Dull or Sharp Pain which Extends to One Hip or Leg
When you suffer from a dull or sharp pain that travels to just one side of your Hip or Leg, then this condition is termed as Sciatica. This is termed after the Sciatic nerve which extends from your lower back to leg or Hip on either side of your legs. The pain results when this nerve suffers a compression. The reason for such a compression could be a Bone Spur or a Herniated Disc.
- Pain During Periods
The abdominal pain that occurs during the onset of periods is known as Endometriosis. This kind of pain can be quite excruciating, due to Endometrial tissue which makes up the Uterine lining and extending to the other organs. Under this condition, Endometriosis presses the Pelvic nerves resulting in back pain, which travels downwards towards the legs. This is the same tissue that releases a Hormone known as Prostaglandins which causes the cramps.
- Sharp Pain Along with Nausea
This could be due to Kidney stones. This condition occurs when minerals deposit in the Kidney thus, disrupting your system altogether. This causes sharp pangs of pain along with Nausea and vomiting. This pain can worsen up when you need to urinate.
So, as you can see, there are various different lower back pain symptoms and causes. When this occurs, it is advised to check out with the doctor immediately and get the medical attention you require.
