Back Pain Conditions »

Lower Back Pain

What is it?

Lower back pain can have many causes, such as a pulled back muscle, disc problems, arthritis, or sacroiliac joint dysfunction. In cases where there has not been a definitive diagnosis, the next question that should be asked is: How long have you been suffering? Your pain will fall into one of two categories: acute (which indicates a recent occurrence) or chronic (the pain has been with you for an extended period of time).

What causes it?

The two most common reasons for lower back pain are trauma and muscle imbalances. Muscle imbalances can have a negative effect on your posture, leading to what are called "postural dysfunctions." These dysfunctions include abnormal alignment of the pelvis and abnormal curvature of the spine. This misalignment causes increased wear and tear on the joints, muscles, and ligaments—even the discs.

The most important thing to understand about any lower back pain is that, barring trauma, it doesn't happen overnight. You may be come symptomatic very quickly, but it takes a long time for the condition to get to the point where your back finally gives way and becomes painful.

What are the symptoms?

The majority of the complaints range from local pain to radiating pain in the legs or arms, depending on where the herniation is located.

Back pain that causes loss of bowel or bladder control is deemed a medical emergency, so anyone who experiences either of these symptoms should get to the ER as quickly as possible.

What are the most common treatments?

Cortisone injections and prescriptions for muscle relaxants or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are the most common treatments employed by physicians.

Chiropractors and physical therapists usually offer spinal mobilization, hot packs, ultrasound, electrical stimulation, and therapeutic exercises.

Surgery should always be your last option and should only be considered if the severity of your condition warrants it.

Why do traditional treatments fail?

Most traditional treatments fail because they simply address the symptoms and fail to address the cause of the condition. Your low back pain is a physical problem, and it requires a physical solution. There are no pills or injections that can restore postural balance in your body because they are unable to take the pressure off the nerve or make the joints work better.

Which treatments work best?

When you have lower back pain and you do not have a proper diagnosis the first suggestion is to seek proper medical attention. Even then there are cases when a proper diagnosis is not given, in that case a conservative approach should be considered.

The use of ice (first 48 hrs) and or heat (after 48hrs) can help control inflammation, pain and stiffness, other natural approaches including enzyme therapy can be of benefit to help control the symptom of the condition.

In most cases of lower back pain, Trigger Points will play a small roll, Trigger Points do three things, them make a muscle (tight, weak and painful) so daily trigger point therapy is recommended immediately combined with muscle balances therapy, in order to restore a more neutral and balanced posture.

Inversion Therapy can also be very effective in releasing some of the stress and compressive forces on the spine not to mention the many numerous health benefits.

Here are some treatments you may want to consider:

Inversion Therapy
Muscle Balance Therapy™
Trigger Point Therapy
Proteolytic Enzyme Therapy
Healthy Heating Pad