Low back is often the result of an injury due to a sudden movement, repeated wrong posture or it can also be the result of certain diseases.
CAUSES
- Repeatedly heavy lifting
- Sudden unusual movement
- Excessive vigorous activity
- Muscle or ligament injury (sprain & strain)
- Bulging or ruptured disc (herniated disc)
- Nerve compression (sciatica)
- Narrowing of spinal column (spinal stenosis)
- Abnormal spine curvatures (lordosis, kyphosis, scoliosis)
- Inflammation of spinal joints (spondylitis)
- Degenerative changes in spine structure and loss of function (spondylosis)
- Vertebra of lower spine slips out of place (spondylolisthesis)
- Osteoporosis
- Arthritis
SYMPTOMS
- Dull or achy pain
- Numbness
- Tingling sensation
- Tightness in lower back muscles
- Difficulty standing up straight
- Difficultyin sitting from standing position
RISK FACTORS
- Aging
- Genetics
- Overweight
- Occupation
- Sedentary lifestyle
ASSESSMENT & DIAGNOSIS
- History
- Physical examination
- Palpation
- Neurological examination
- Reflex test
- Special tests
- Range of motion (ROM) test
DIAGNOSTIC IMAGING
- X-rays
- MRI
- CT scan
- Bone scan
- Blood tests
- Nerve studies
PREVENTION
- Avoid long sitting
- Maintain good posture
- Exercise regularly
- Healthy diet
- Get enough sleep
- Stop smoking
- Avoid frequent bending and twisting
PHYSIOTHERAPY MANAGEMENT
Electrotherapy/modalities
- Heat therapy
- Cold therapy
- Transcutaneous Electric Nerve Stimulations (TENS)
- Lumbar traction
Exercise therapy
- Stretching exercises
- Strengthening exercises
- Low impact aerobics
- Core muscle strengthening
MEDICAL TREATMENT
- NSAIDS (non steroidal anti inflammatory drugs)
- Corticosteroids injections
- Muscle relaxants
- Anti depressants