Most people worldwide experience low back pain. Various factors can cause mild to severe discomfort. Fortunately, you can find treatment to alleviate this problem. Read on to learn more about its causes and treatment options.

Poor Posture

Prolonged periods of standing or sitting with poor posture place undue pressure on the lower back. The stress can strain the structure of your lower back, like the muscles and ligaments, leading to discomfort and pain. The pain can worsen when poor posture causes spinal misalignment.

Maintain good posture throughout the day. Doing so will help reduce your chances of experiencing lower back pain. Sitting upright with your shoulders back and feet flat on the ground helps. When standing, avoid leaning forward and try to distribute your weight evenly on both feet.

Herniated Discs

Herniated discs occur when the jelly-like soft material in the discs in your spine rupture or bulge. These can cause pain in your lower back. Treatment may include using pain medication, physical therapy, and rest. Your healthcare provider can suggest surgery if the case is severe. It will help alleviate pressure on the nerves by removing the damaged disc.

Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis affects the joints in your lower back. It happens when the cartilage between the joints breaks down, causing pain and inflammation. Treatments may include weight loss, physical therapy, and pain medication. Surgery may be necessary in severe cases to replace the damaged joint.

Spinal Stenosis

Spinal stenosis arises when the openings in your spine narrow, straining the nerves in your lower back. It can lead to pain in the lower back. Treatment may include pain medication, physical therapy, and steroid injections. Surgery may be necessary if the case is severe. It can help alleviate pressure on your nerves to relieve your pain.

Muscle Strains and Sprains
 

Overusing the muscles in your lower back, sudden movements, or improper lifting of heavy objects can cause injuries like muscle strains and sprains. Strains occur when the muscles in your lower back get too stretched or torn. Sprains occur when the ligaments holding the bones together get too stretched or torn.

Avoiding activities that aggravate pain can help treat muscle strains and sprains. Set some time to rest. Applying heat and ice to the affected area can reduce inflammation and promote healing. Strengthening exercises and stretching can help prevent future injuries.

Scoliosis

Scoliosis is a condition where the spine curves to the side and causes pain and discomfort. It can develop due to poor posture, injury, or genetics. Physical therapy, bracing, or pain medication can help. Surgery is sometimes necessary to correct the curvature of the spine.

Poor Sleeping Habits 

Low back pain can develop due to poor sleeping habits. Your spine can become misaligned when you sleep on a very firm or soft mattress. It can lead to pain and discomfort. You can also place undue pressure on your lower back when you sleep on your stomach.

Sleep on a supportive mattress to prevent low back pain caused by poor sleeping habits. Lie on your side or back with a pillow between your knees to maintain proper spinal alignment.

For more about low back pain and treatment options, visit M Powered Chiropractic at our office in Georgetown, Texas. Call (512) 548-4355 to book an appointment today.