Low back pain (lower back pain)
Low back pain and low back pain can affect everyone. Having lower back pain and lower back pain is bothersome and goes beyond function, mood and work ability. It never fits with lower back pain. Acute lower back pain is a nuisance affecting up to 90% of the Norwegian population, according to figures from the NHI. The lower back is the lower back and consists of 5 vertebrae, in the professional language it is called the lumbar columnalis. Suddenly low back pain is also known as lumbago or witch shot. In this review article, you will become better acquainted with common causes and diagnoses, symptoms, assessment options, treatment methods, good exercises and self-measures.
Good tip: Scroll to the bottom to see two training videos that can help you with low back pain. At the end of the article, we also go through various smart self-measures and tips that can help you in work and everyday life.
In this guide you can learn more about:
1. Anatomy: Where is the Lumbar Spine? And what does it consist of?
2. Causes of Low Back Pain
- Why do you get Pain in the Low Back?
Common Causes
- Diagnoses
Rare Causes
3. Symptoms of low back pain
4. Clinical and Functional Examination of Lumbago
5. Treatment against Lumbago
6. Self-measures and Exercises for Pain in the Low Back (including video)
- How to Prevent Low Back Pain?
1. Anatomy: Where is the Lumbar Spine? And what does it consist of?
5 Lumbar vertebrae
Intervertebral discs (Soft shock absorbers between the vertebrae)
Back Muscles And Seat Muscles
Tendons and Ligaments
A good starting point for learning more about low back pain is to understand how the lower back is built up. This anatomical part is thus the lowest part of the back. The lumbar spine consists of 5 vertebrae, these are called L1, L2, L3, L4, L5 - of which L1 is the upper lumbar joint and L5 is the lower. Between these vertebrae made of bone we find soft discs called intervertebral discs. These consist of a soft core called the nucleus pulposus, as well as a harder outer wall known as the annulus fibrosus. In the case of disc damage, the soft mass can seep out of the outer wall and provide a basis for what we call a disc herniation in the lower back (lumbar prolapse).
In addition to this, the back also depends on good function in the associated back muscles and buttock muscles to function optimally. Examples of some of the muscles that are often involved in back pain are the back stretchers, gluteus, piriformis and quadratus lumborum. In addition to the muscles, the lower back also receives stability from connective tissue (fascia), tendons (the part that attaches a muscle to bone) and ligaments (attaches bone to bone). Overall, joints, muscles, tendons and nerves should work well in the lower back to avoid the lower back - something that can be difficult at times, especially if you have a very static job with a lot of daily load on the lower back.
2. Causes of Low Back Pain
We get low back pain because the body's built-in alarm system tells us about malfunction and the risk of further deterioration. The pain signals are thus sent out to make you address the problem. But it is also important to understand that pain often has several different causes - and thus is often considered combination pain. In this part of the article, we go through common causes, names of different diagnoses and, not least, rare causes of low back pain.
Common causes
Malfunction of Muscles and Joints
Wear and tear (Osteoarthritis)
Nerve irritation and disc injuries
1. Malfunction in Muscles and Joints
Reduced joint mobility and muscle tension are the most common causes of low back pain. However, low back pain can occur due to a number of causes and diagnoses - often the problem is due to sudden overloads, repeated misloads over time and little (or too much) physical activity. There is always a combination of causes that cause low back pain, so it is important to treat the problem in a holistic way, taking into account all factors. Very often, during functional examinations, the therapist will be able to detect a combination of elevated muscle tension and reduced mobility in the joints. NHI also reports that this condition is the largest single diagnosis for social security payments and that this diagnosis accounts for approximately 15% of all long-term sick leavers. Due to dysergonomic working conditions and increasingly more time sitting at the PC - which in turn leads to more static strain on the neck, shoulders and lower back - it is not particularly surprising that reported pain in these areas is increasing in society.
2. Wear and tear changes (Osteoarthritis)
Wear and tear in the joints occurs over a long period of time - and is common as you get older. Trauma and injuries can provide a basis for a faster occurrence of joint wear than is usual due to only age-related changes. Osteoarthritis of the joints in the lower back can lead to reduced mobility, reduced functionality and pain. But it is important to mention that manual treatment in combination with adapted exercises has a well-documented effect in relation to maintaining function in osteoarthritis - including in the hips (1). An active lifestyle is also important if you want the best possible joint health and to prevent osteoarthritis.
3. Nerve irritation and disc injuries
If the nerve in the lower lumbar spine or seat is pinched, this is called sciatica. Sciatica often means that a combination of tense muscles, stiff joints and height-reduced intervertebral discs leads to narrower space conditions. This tightness then leads to a pinch or irritation to the nerve passage. Improper loading or overload can also lead to disc damage and disc prolapse - which in turn can result in lower intervertebral discs, pain and reduced function in the area. Traction therapy, with a traction bench (as used by modern chiropractors or physiotherapists), is often used in the treatment of such nerve irritation and nerve pinching. Pressure wave therapy aimed at deep gluteal muscles, the hip crest and the pelvic transition can also be an effective supplement.
Other Common Diagnoses
In the list below, we go through some common diagnoses often seen with low back pain. Also remember that, unfortunately, it is possible to have several types of malfunction going on at the same time.
witch Shot
Sciatica
Lumbago
Lock in the pelvis, lower back and / or hip joint
muscle tension
Piriformis syndrome
Prolapse of the lower back
Spinal stenosis of the lower back
Trigger point / myalgia in the back and seat
Other Possible Causes and Diagnoses of Low Back Pain:
Arthritis (Arthritis and Arthritis)
Osteoarthritis (Back pain depends on the extent of spinal osteoarthritis)
pelvic locker (Pelvic lock with associated myalgia can cause pain in the lower back and lower back)
Leg length difference (Functional or structural leg length difference can be a contributing cause of low back pain)
Inflammation of the lower back
Soft tissue damage
Erector spinae (back muscle) trigger point
Fibromyalgia (Soft Tissue Rheumatism)
Gluteal myalgia (pain in the seat, against the tailbone and hip, against lower back or hip)
Gluteus medius myalgia / trigger point (Tight gluteal muscles can contribute to low back pain)
Hamstrings myalgia / muscle damage (causes pain on the back of the thigh and against the tailbone, depending on the area that is damaged)
Hip osteoarthritis (also known as cox osteoarthritis)
Sciatica / sciatica (Depending on which nerve root is affected, it can cause referred pain to the hip, buttocks, coccyx, thighs, knees, legs and feet)
Joint locker / joint stiffness / dysfunction in the pelvis, tailbone, sacrum, hip or lower back
Lumbar prolapse (Nerve irritation / disc injury in the L3, L4 or L5 nerve root can cause referred pain in the lower back, buttocks and down the legs)
Menstruation (may be a contributing cause of low back pain)
Muscle pain: Something most people have experienced, if the muscles are incorrectly loaded over a longer period of time, muscle knots / trigger points will form in the muscles.
- Active trigger points will cause pain all the time from the muscle (e.g. gluteus minimus myalgi in the buttocks, erector spinae or quadratus lumborum may cause low back pain)
- Latent trigger points provides pain through pressure, activity and strain
Quadratus lumborum (QL) myalgia
rheumatism (Several rheumatic disorders can cause low back pain)
Tendonitis
Scoliosis (Skews in the back can lead to incorrect loading in the lower back)
Spinal stenosis of the lower back (Tight nerve conditions can cause nerve pain in the back and further down the legs)
Previous back surgery (Scar tissue and injury tissue can cause back pain)
Loss of fatigue in the lower back
Trocantertendinitis / tendinosis
Rare Causes of Low Back Pain
There are other causes as well, but these are often significantly rarer. If you have a fever in combination with back pain, you should always consult a doctor.
Inflammation
Cauda Equina Syndrome
Fraktur
Infection (often with high CRP and fever)
arthritis
bone cancer or any other cancer
Septic arthritis
Tuberkulosis (Tbc)
3. Symptoms of low back pain
Symptoms and pain presentation in low back pain will vary depending on the cause of the problem. For example, the symptoms may be different if there is more involvement of the lower vertebrae and gluteal muscles. And in diagnoses that contribute to nerve irritation or nerve pinching, such as spinal stenosis or disc herniation, these can give different symptoms based on which nerve roots are affected. A thorough functional examination performed by an authorized clinician, such as a chiropractor or physiotherapist, is therefore essential when it comes to identifying both causes and symptoms.
Common symptoms of low back pain
In the list below, we have listed some of the more traditional symptoms and pain presentations of lumbago.
The pain can come on acutely or over time
The lower back is stiff and sore - especially in the morning
Almost constantly tired in the lower back
Sudden cuts in the back (Sharp pains that come suddenly)
The pain is aggravated by sitting or standing still straight up and down
Skew in the back of one of the sides (Pain relief)
A feeling that the back is failing
Radiation down the leg from the back (nerve irritation)
Low back pain (As a circle or as a compressive belt over the lower back)
Common Reported Pain Presentations at Lumbago
Pain can both be experienced and described differently from person to person. Here you can see a selection of some of the descriptions the patients have our clinics (see our departments here - the link opens in a new window) feel free to use.
- Lethargy in the lower back
- Burning in the lower back
- Deep pain in the lower back
- Electric shock in the lower back
- Hogging and carving in the lower back
- Knot in the lower back
- Cramps in the lower back
- Joint pain in the lower back
- Ants in the lower back
- Murring in the lower back
- Muscular pain in the lower back
- Nervous pain in the lower back
- The lumbar spine
- Shake in the lower back
- Leaning in the lower back
- Worn in the lower back
- Stinging in the lower back
- Stool in the lower back
- Low back pain
- Low back pain
- Sore lower back
- Is my low back pain acute, subacute or chronic?
When talking about this type of classification, one refers to the duration of the back pain. Acute lumbago is low back pain that has lasted less than three weeks. Over three weeks it is defined as subacute, and if the duration of the pain is as long as over three months, it is classified as chronic. But here it is important to keep the tongue straight in the mouth - because chronic in this classification system does not mean chronic as in "impossible to do something with". However, the truth is that the longer you stay with back pain, the longer the period of time you can expect to have to get help through active treatment and home exercises. Do not give up your back, take active action and seek out professionally competent clinicians - you will thank 'your future self' for later in life.
4. Clinical and Functional Examination of Lumbago (Low Back Pain)
Examination of Functionality in the Lumbar Spine
Clinical Functional Tests and Nerve Tension Tests
Image Diagnostic Investigation
A good and thorough functional examination of the lower back will first be based on a thorough history taking from the patient. Then, based on the history, the clinician will examine the function and mobility of the lumbar muscles and joints. The examination will be able to reveal movement restrictions in joints, pain-sensitive muscles and nerve irritation in the back or seat. Modern chiropractor, manual therapist and physiotherapist are the publicly authorized professions in Norway that can help you with this. On a general basis, we do not recommend unauthorized professions, although there are many good ones in these professions as well, as these do not have title protection - and that therefore even unqualified persons can call themselves, for example, naprapath or osteopath. Fortunately, efforts are being made to address this problem, but for the time being, our main recommendation will be to seek out publicly authorized professions.
- Function tests and Special tests
The clinician would like to use what we call orthopedic function tests and special tests that examine for nerve root clamping. Based on the findings from these examinations, the therapist will normally be able to make a functional diagnosis. Usually there are involvements from several aspects in muscles, joints and nerves that are behind the problem. Furthermore, an estimated course of treatment will be set up consisting of muscular work, joint mobilization and other treatment methods (for example needle treatment or pressure wave). The patient will also receive home exercises based on these findings. So, with traditional treatment courses, you can do without imaging - such as MRI examination and X-ray. But in some cases it may be medically indicated, and we will talk more about that in the next part of the article.
Imaging Diagnostic Investigation of Lumbago
MRI examination (Gold standard in most cases)
X-ray (Useful in case of suspected fracture or trauma)
CT (Used if the patient has a pacemaker or similar)
In certain cases, imaging may be useful. Examples of this can be if the patient has indications of prolapse or spinal stenosis. If significant osteoarthritis is suspected or osteoarthritis of the hip then you can possibly use X-rays instead. X-rays, however, cannot visualize soft tissue as MRI examinations can. Below you can see sample images of the various imaging diagnostic reports.
MRI image of the lower back
In the picture above you can see an example of what the pictures from an MRI examination of the lower back can look like. MRI images are the gold standard when we want to assess the lower back. Among other things, it can show disc injuries, prolapse and tight nerve conditions in the back.
X-ray of the lumbar spine
X-ray of the lower back - Photo Wikimedia
Above we see an example of what an X-ray of the lower back can look like. The photo was taken from the side. It is noted quite sharp wear changes in L5 / S1 (LSO - lumbosacral transition) lower lumbar spine. In other words - osteoarthritis.
Ultrasound examination of lumbar multifidi (the deep back muscles of the lower back)
In general, ultrasound is not particularly suitable for examining the lumbar spine. The most common imaging tests for this part of the body are MRI and X-ray. Description of the ultrasound image showing the multifid in the lower back: Cross section through the L4 level spinosi, with echogenic lamina (L) deep in relation to the multifidus muscles (M). The image was taken with a 5MHZ curved linear ultrasonic probe.
5. Treatment of Low Back Pain
Modern Approach
Treatment of Muscles and Joints
Exercises and Advice for Long Term Improvement
As mentioned in the previous part of the article, the thorough functional examination facilitates the course of treatment. Each patient case is different, and thus one will also be able to expect an individualized treatment plan, with exercises, based on the clinical findings. What is generally important is that the clinician addresses the problem in a holistic and modern way.
Common Treatments for Low Back Pain
Physiotherapy
Modern Chiropractic
Musculoskeletal Laser Therapy (Class 3B)
Massage and Muscle Work
Needle Therapy and Intramuscular Acupuncture
Pressure wave therapy (Shock wave therapy)
Training and Home Exercises
Hot water pool training
1. Physiotherapy against Lumbago
It is very beneficial for someone who is suffering from low back problems and get help to find out which exercise is best for them. A physiotherapist can also treat sore, tight muscles. Find one of our physiotherapists near you via this clinic overview (the link opens in a new window).
2. Modern Chiropractic and Traction
A modern chiropractor has exceptionally good expertise in the assessment and treatment of low back pain. These work actively with both muscles and joints, and also, as a doctor, have the right to refer to imaging and sick leave. A systematic review of studies, a meta-study, concluded that chiropractic manipulation is effective in the treatment of subacute and chronic low back pain (Chou et al, 2007). If desired, you can see our modern chiropractors near you via this clinic overview (the link opens in a new window).
Musculoskeletal Laser Therapy (Class 3B)
Laser therapy is an exciting form of treatment that is often used as a supplement by modern chiropractors and physiotherapists. According to the Radiation Protection Regulations, only a doctor, chiropractor and physiotherapist are allowed to use this treatment method. Laser therapy has a well-documented effect against, among other things, muscle injuries and tendonitis. You can read more about the form of treatment here (link opens in new window). The treatment is offered at all the wards belonging to the Pain Clinics.
4. Massage and Muscle Work
Muscle work and massage can have a symptom-relieving effect on tight and sore muscles. It increases blood circulation to the locally sore muscle areas and dissolves into tight muscle fibers. Muscular work in authorized professions may also include intramuscular acupuncture.
5. Needle Therapy and Acupuncture
Many modern physiotherapists and chiropractors use acupuncture needles in their treatment setups. We remind you again that acupuncturist is not a protected title, so we recommend that you rather investigate which physiotherapists or chiropractors near you who also use needles in their treatment plan.
6. Pressure wave treatment
Pressure wave therapy can be effective against, among other things, piriformis syndrome and referred pain from the hips. The treatment takes place using a pressure wave device and the therapist directs the probe at the pain-sensitive and restrictive areas in the pelvis and hip. The treatment method has a very well documented effect. If you wish, you can read a thorough and informative article about the treatment here (link opens in new window). Everyone our clinics offers pressure wave treatment via state-of-the-art devices.
7. Training and Home Exercises
Being active according to ability is important. The vast majority of clinicians will, in an active course of treatment, help you get started with the right home exercises adapted to you and your problems. Sometimes it is so that you need a little help with pain relief and functional improvement to get started with exercise. Did you know that we have a Youtube channel with hundreds of free training videos? You can find it via link here (opens in new window).
8. Hot water pool training
Training in a hot water pool is an offer that is often offered to rheumatologists and other patient groups. Training in hot water / pool has shown that it can be very useful for symptom relief and functional improvement in certain patient categories. Unfortunately, more and more of these offers are being discontinued - which shows that prevention is not the highest priority. At Vondtklinikkene, we are clear in our speech that this is an offer that should be built up - not down.
6. Self-measures and Exercises for Pain in the Low Back
Prevention
Private Initiatives
Exercises and Training (Video Included)
In this part of the article, we take a closer look at what you can do yourself against the pain. This includes suggestions and tips for prevention, self-measures and recommended home exercises. Here we also show two videos consisting of exercise programs you can use for low back pain.
1. Prevention of Low Back Pain
Avoid excessive static load
Keep moving throughout the day
Try walking or jogging for about half an hour every day
Take active steps with self-measures that suit your everyday life
Vary the sitting position when using coccyx (the link opens in a new window) or similar
- What should I do myself for relief of acute low back pain?
In case of acute back pain: Find as painless a position as possible (called an emergency position) so that you can relax. Start with gentle movements with this position as a starting point. Start walking as soon as you can. Concentrate on relaxing so that you move as effortlessly and naturally as possible, even if it hurts. In very acute episodes can lumbar backrest (link opens in new window) is recommended - but not for regular use.
2. Self-measures
Many of our patients ask us about active self-measures they can use for their backs in their own everyday lives. On such questions, we gladly recommend, on a general basis, the use of a set of trigger point balls (see example here - opens in new window), combination packs (can be used as both cold pack and heat pack) and sleeping pad to sleep with (so that you back and pelvis get the right angle). For those who spend a lot of time in front of a PC, we recommend variation of sitting position when using a tailbone pillow.
The former trigger point balls can be used every other day against sore muscles in the back, hip and pelvis on a daily basis. For acute pain, you can use the cold pack, and for maintenance purposes, you can use the heat pack to dissolve in tight back muscles. Many also report that they wake up with a stiff back and sore hips in the morning. Then it can be useful to try a reclining pillow to stabilize the back and pelvis.
- A Cheap Ergomic Investment In A Modern Office Everyday
You've probably seen what ergonomic office chairs cost? It is difficult to get below 10000 kroner if you are going to have some of the most high-floating chairs on the market. The truth is that there are many other, and less expensive, ways to conduct business active sitting - that is, that you get varied compression in the lower back. One of our very best tips is this tailbone pillow. Change the sitting position by using this for a couple of hours, before you remove it again, and thus get a different load on the lower back. This way you can change several times a day - and thus prevent part of your back from being overloaded. Click on the image below or here (link opens in new window) to read more about this.
3. Exercises and Training against Lumbago
Here we show two good training videos with exercises that can be suitable for you with a sore back. If you have long-term pain or radiation down the leg, we recommend that you consult an authorized clinician for an examination and possible treatment of your back pain.
VIDEO: 5 Exercises against Sciatica and Sciatica
In case of low back pain, there may also be irritation of the sciatic nerve inside the back and seat. These five exercises can help you relieve nerve pain, provide better back movement and reduce nerve irritation.
Join our family and subscribe to our YouTube channel for free exercise tips, exercise programs and health knowledge. Welcome!
VIDEO: 5 Strength Exercises Against Back Prolapse
Maybe you have been affected by prolapse in the back? As you know, this can increase the incidence of back pain for a long time after the prolapse itself has withdrawn. To normalize the function in the injured area, back and core training can be useful. Here we show you a recommended, simple exercise program adapted to those with back prolapse.
Did you enjoy the videos? If you took advantage of them, we would really appreciate you subscribing to our YouTube channel and giving us a thumbs up on social media. It means a lot to us. Thank you very much!
Do You Want a Consultation or Do You Have Questions?
Feel free to contact us at YouTube or Facebook if you have questions or the like regarding exercise or your muscle and joint problems. You can also see an overview of our clinics via the link here if you want to book a consultation. Some of our departments for the Pain Clinics include Eidsvoll Healthy Chiropractor Center and Physiotherapy (Viken) and Lambertseter Chiropractor Center and Physiotherapy (Oslo). With us, professional competence and the patient are always the most important thing.
References and Research
- French et al, 2013. Exercise and manual physiotherapy arthritis research trial (EMPART) for osteoarthritis of the hip: a multicenter randomized controlled trial. Arch Phys Med Rehabil. 2013 Feb; 94 (2): 302-14.
- NHI - Norwegian Health Informatics
- Chou, R. et al. Nonpharmacologic therapies for acute and chronic low back pain: a review of the evidence for an American Pain Society / American College of Physicians clinical practice guideline. Ann Intern Med. 2007 Oct 2;147(7):492-504.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: Why do you get lower back pain?
Answer: As mentioned earlier, some of the most common causes of such ailments are sudden overloads, repeated overloads over time and little physical activity. Often it is a combination of causes that cause lower back pain, so it is important to treat the problem in a holistic way, taking into account all factors. muscle Knots and joint restrictions are often two ingredients seen in lumbago.
- Related questions with the same answer: "What is the cause of low back pain?", "What is the reason for getting low back pain?"
Q: Does my lower back hurt… what could it be?
Answer: Without further ado, it is impossible to comment on you specifically, but generally lower back pain may be due to facet joints, muscular overactivity (myalgia / muscle knots) and possible nerve irritation. It is almost always a mixture of both joint and muscle ailments, so it is important to address both to facilitate optimal function. A musculoskeletal expert (physical therapist, chiropractor or manual therapist) can help you pinpoint the cause and give you an accurate diagnosis.
Has low back pain and disc bulging. What does slice bulging really mean?
When it comes to squat or squat, it is first and foremost good to point out that we are talking about the soft intervertebral discs that we find between the vertebrae. The intervertebral disc consists of a soft core (nucleus pulposus) and a harder, more fibrous outer wall (annulus fibrosus) - this is when this soft mass pushes out against the outer wall, but without pushing through (if it pushes through it is called disc prolapse), that it is called a disc bulge. It is relatively common to find disc bulging in wood, among other things MRI investigations - these are normally not symptomatic, but can possibly be a clue that you should treat your back a little nicer and consider stepping up the training aimed at the core and back muscles. Traction treatment can also help counteract reduced disc height.
Question: What is the usual treatment for low back pain?
Answer: The treatment will vary depending on the findings at the first clinical examination, but it is important to remember that there is often both a muscular and a joint component in low back problems - and that it is important that your treatment addresses both components. Of course, in some cases there may be a major component of dysfunction in the joints and vice versa. This varies. If you consult a chiropractor for low back problems, then chiropractic treatment is mainly aimed at restoring movement and joint function that may be impaired by mechanical pain. This is done by so-called joint correction, adjustment or manipulation techniques, as well as joint mobilization, stretching techniques, and muscular work (for example trigger point treatment and work with deep soft tissue) on the muscles involved. Some also use dry needle (needle treatment) against overactive trigger points / muscle knots.
What are the problems associated with L5 - S1?
L5 refers to the fifth and lower lumbar vertebra, also known as the lumbar vertebra. L5 is found in the lumbosacral transition (LSO), where the lumbar spine (lumbar spine) meets the sacrum. The sacrum is made up of four continuous joints called S1, S2, S3 and S4. L5 / S1 thus constitute the area where the lumbar spine attaches to the sacrum and pelvis. Problems that can arise in this joint are many due to the fact that it is an area that naturally gets a lot of strain on both dynamic and static positions. You can experience joint restriction in the joint and locally in nearby cooperating joints, myalgias / muscle tension in the lower back and seat, as well as disc disorders (lumbar prolapse) in the actual intervertebral disc belonging to L5 - S1.
Questions: Where's the lower back?
Answer: The lower back is the lower back. It consists of five vertebrae and is called the lumbar columnar subject language, with the vertebrae L1-L5, where L1 is the upper lumbar joint and L5 is the lower lumbar spine. The upper part of the lower back, where it meets the chest, is called the thoracolumbar transition, often shortened to TLO. The lower part of the lower back, where it meets the pelvis / sacrum, is called the lumbosacral transition, abbreviated to LSO.
Why does it hurt to sit?
In a sitting position, you have a very high pressure against the lower part of the back, ie the lower back. It is especially the transition joint towards the pelvis that is exposed during prolonged, static sitting. The vast majority of us modern people sit too much in everyday life and in work situations - and then we come home and sit on the couch. Over time, this will lead to weakened muscles in the back and core and this will thus not be able to keep the pressure away from the vertebrae and intervertebral discs - which in turn leads to low back pain and lumbago.
Lock in the lower back that radiates to the stomach and groin. Can it vote?
Yes, it can be due to referred pain from muscles and joints in the lower back - it can also be due to nerve irritation or disc injury. It is often related to those with incorrect load in muscles, joints and intervertebral discs over a long period of time.
Why do I get stiff in my lower back after a long walk?
Stiffness and tenderness are usually due to strain. When we train or load the muscles, the muscle fibers are broken down, before they gradually build up again in the course of 2-3 days (depending on fitness level and state of health) - with this build-up, they will build up again even stronger. Lumbar stiffness can also be due to dysfunction in joints or muscles. If you are regularly bothered, you should seek help from a chiropractor or other clinician who can increase the function of joints and muscles.
Pain in the lower back. Cause?
Reply: Pain in the lower back can be caused by joints, myalgia, nerve irritation or lumbar prolapse. Especially the back stretches, the quadratus lumborum, and the seat muscles, gluteus medius og gluteus minimus are often involved in lower back pain in the lower back - these myalgias / muscle tension often occur together with joint restrictions in the lower lumbar vertebrae.
piriformis is another muscle that often becomes tight with such wounds. Especially LSO (lumbosacral joint) L5 / S1 or ISL (iliosacral / pelvic joint) is often dysfunctional in muscle and joint pain in the lower back. There is always a joint and muscle component - it never is muscular only.
Pain in the lower lumbar spine is often linked to poor lifting technique or training technique (for example when lifting the ground) which thus puts a high load on the lower part of the lower back. Muscular and joint treatment are often used in combination with specific exercise guidance - it is often especially important to train the deep back muscles (lumbar multifidene) to prevent back pain.
Pain in the upper lumbar region. Cause?
Answer: When talking about pain and pain at the top of the lumbar spine, there is often the involvement of back stretchers, quadratus lumborum, iliocostalis lumborum and longissimus thoracis. One iliopsoas myalgia can also refer pain to this area. These muscles are usually accompanied by joint restrictions in the upper lumbar joint (L1-L3) and the thoracic ball joint transition (TLO, T12 / L1 - where the thoracic spine meets the lumbar spine). Prolonged work over the head (such as painting the ceiling or other unfavorable working positions with a lot of pressure on this area) can be a cause of such a pain problem.
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Hey!
I am a 26-year-old girl who, since middle school, has struggled with a sore back, mainly her lower back. I have been active all my life, trained a lot, walked in the woods and fields. I have had three cases of acute lumbago. I stiffen slightly in the lower back, and also further up the spine, about the middle part of the back. The vertebrae are also sore and painful. I have also noticed pain along the hip ridge, and can when walking get stings / shocks approximately where the hip ridge meets the spine (if it was understandable).
I occasionally get radiation down the back of my thigh, and this was a period of sleep disturbance. All of the activity that goes on the back I must (try to avoid), eg snow removal, tire changes, exercises such as deadlifts, squats, etc. I also have some pain in especially the left shoulder, and have also in the last month noticed pain in the tendon attachments to the right. knee (not that I know if this is related to the back pain). MRI about 2-3 years ago showed, as with most, wear changes in L1 / S5.
What often eases the pain when it is at its worst is to lie with your legs up and your lower back down in the ground, or to lean forward and get a stretch in the back. A naprapath advised me NOT to do this, why I do not know completely, but think he mentioned something about disc slipping (??)
Do you have any tips / advice for me? I study nursing (?!) And already know that I have to aim for a job without too many heavy lifts.
Regards Michelle
Hi Michelle,
These were extensive ailments. You mention naprapat, but have you ever been to a therapist with a public health authorization? So physiotherapist, manual therapist or chiropractor? The latter three have a more comprehensive education and thus often have a better understanding of more complicated issues such as your case.
You mention that you occasionally have radiation to the thigh - but you do not write which side. Does this mean that there is something going on on both sides for you? Or is it only on the right side?
Of course, it is difficult to make a diagnosis without seeing you, but it certainly sounds like you have a problem that involves a number of joint restrictions (popularly called 'locks'), myalgias and nerve irritation (we suspect that the gluteal muscles and piriformis exercise a light pressure on your sciatic nerve). Myalgias in the seat almost always occur in combination with reduced joint movement in the pelvic joint on the same side - this is something that can respond well to joint treatment. The muscles can be treated with massage, trigger point treatment or needle treatment - is this something that has been tried? Differential diagnosis is thus piriformis syndrome with associated dysfunction in the pelvic joint and lumbar spine. The pelvic joint acts as a weight transmitter - so it makes sense that you get occasional pain when weighing against the leg on the same side.
Do you want any tips regarding proper training / exercises / stretching?
Sincerely,
Thomas v / Vondt.net
Hey!
Yes, of course I forgot to mention that. Go to the chiropractor regularly to try to loosen up a bit, but the effect is short-lived. I harden again quickly, and have to return quickly. If you are also a student, you can unfortunately not afford to run down the doors of the chiropractor, so there are quick long stays between treatments. Sometimes I also feel that the treatment hurts worse. Have not tried any other treatment, other than that the naprapath stuck some needles in me.
Experiencing only radiation down into the right thigh.
Had been very nice with tips for good exercises and miscellaneous that might help me, or recommendations on what I should consider doing next 🙂
Regards Michelle
Hey,
Yes, it is a pity that chiropractic treatment is not covered by the public. If you stiffen again quickly, it is clear that you do not have sufficient stability muscles to relieve the back and pelvis. Feel free to try these exercises for increased strength in the hip and these the exercises against false sciatica. We otherwise recommend variation in the core exercises you carry out.