Understanding Low Back Pain at Spinal Disorders

Understanding Low Back Pain and Spinal Disorders

Low back pain is one of the most common conditions that affects millions of people in the world. It is often linked to spinal disorders and can affect people of all ages. 

While low back pain is temporary in most cases, it can develop into chronic pain if it persists for more than 12 weeks. Understanding low back pain in depth can help you manage it more effectively. 

In this comprehensive blog, we will cover everything you need to know about low back pain and common spinal disorders, including their symptoms, causes, diagnosis, and treatment options. So read on to uncover and understand the complexities of low back pain and spinal disorders. 

Understanding Low Back Pain and Spinal Disorders

Symptoms

Low back pain symptoms can either show up suddenly or develop over time. They are usually caused by a recent movement or injury. However, they can also appear without any apparent cause.

These symptoms include dull or sharp pain that continues down your back and even radiates down to your legs. This may get worse when you are bending over or stretching. You may also hear a popping sound if you have suffered a back strain. 

Some other symptoms of low back pain include:

• Muscle spasms
• Numbness or tingling
• Stiffness
• Weakness
• Reduced range of motion
• Bad posture
• Radiating pain

These symptoms can vary, depending on the condition you have. However, do note that low back pain is multifaceted, meaning that it can stem from various factors. By understanding the different causes of this pain, you can better manage it. 

Causes of Low Back Pain

There are many conditions, spinal disorders, and injuries that can cause lower back pain. These include:

1. Degenerative Conditions

Degenerative conditions like spinal osteoarthritis and degenerative disc disease are caused by ageing. As we age, our spinal discs can degenerate and become weak, resulting in degenerative conditions. These conditions can affect bones, spinal discs, and joints. 

Symptoms of degenerative conditions include pain, reduced range of motion, stiffness, and impaired movements. 

1. Back Sprain and Strain

Back sprains and strains are the most common injuries that can cause back pain. They are caused by certain movements that can result in injured tendons, muscles, or ligaments. 

For instance, lifting heavy weights, bending over or twisting your back, suddenly sneezing, and excessive coughing can all cause back sprains and strains.

1. Scoliosis

Scoliosis is an abnormal curvature of the spinal cord to the left or right. It is a medical condition that causes low back pain which can vary depending on the progression of the condition.

Scoliosis can also lead to asymmetrical shoulders, hips, or waist as it puts pressure on the nearby organs and nerves. Its symptoms range from stiffness and back pain to difficulty in breathing.

1. Spondylolisthesis

Spondylolisthesis is another medical condition that is extremely painful. It is a displacement of the vertebrae that results in them slipping out of place. It usually occurs in the lower back but can cause discomfort in other areas of the spine and even in the legs. 

Spondylolisthesis is a result of trauma or repetitive strain. Its symptoms include low back pain, weakness, stiffness, nerve compression, and numbness in the legs.

1. Fractures

Trauma, accidents, sports injuries, and falls can cause fractures in the spinal bones. These fractures are more common among people with osteoporosis or spondylolisthesis. They can range from minor cracks to severe fractures that can result in displaced vertebrae. 

Symptoms of spinal fractures include pain, swelling, numbness in the limbs, difficulty in moving, and a tingling sensation. Loss of bladder or bowel control can also occur in extreme cases.

1. Herniated Discs

As we age, the jelly-like substance in our spinal discs can push through the exterior layer of the disc and leak into the spinal canal. This protrusion inflicts pressure on the nearby nerves, resulting in pain, weakness, and numbness.

Herniated discs are caused by degeneration, excessive and improper lifting, injuries, trauma, and wear and tear. They require immediate attention as the pain is immense. 

1. Arthritis

Osteoarthritis is one of the most common types of arthritis that occurs when the cartilage in your back breaks down. When this happens, the bones in your back start to rub against each other, causing irritation, swelling, pain, and stiffness.

Osteoarthritis is caused by injuries, obesity, genetics, and age. It does not have a cure. However, there are many treatments that can help manage the pain.

Diagnosis and Treatment

If you are suffering from low back pain or any of the symptoms of spinal disorders mentioned above, you need to get yourself examined by an orthopaedic near you.

There are several ways to diagnose a spinal disorder, depending on your condition. These include:

• X-ray
• CT scan
• MRI
• Blood and urine tests
• Electromyography (EMG) 

There are many treatment options available for low back pain and spinal disorders:

1. Medication

Low back pain can be relieved with medications such as prescription drugs and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Your healthcare provider may also recommend medications to relax muscles and prevent muscle cramps.

1. Physiotherapy

Physiotherapy is one of the most commonly recommended treatments for low back pain. This hands-on technique is tailored according to the specific condition and needs of the patient.  It helps improve flexibility, reduces pain, and strengthens muscles to aid in movement.

1. Chiropractic and Hands-On Treatments

There are also some hands-on treatments that your healthcare provider may recommend for reducing pain, tightening muscles, and improving alignment. They may recommend massage therapy, chiropractic adjustment, or osteopathic manipulation to restore movement and relieve pain.

1. Steroids

Steroid injections are also often recommended in cases of severe pain and inflammation. Your healthcare provider will inject the steroid medication using a needle into the affected area to provide quick relief.

1. Surgery

In extreme cases of spinal disorders, you may require surgery. There are various types of surgeries for low back pain. These include laminectomy, discectomy, spinal fusion, disc replacement, and vertebroplasty. 

You will need to consult with an experienced orthopaedic surgeon to determine the right treatment plan. What’s more, you may need to spend a few days in an intensive care unit (ICU) as a part of your post-operative care.

Conclusion

Living with low back pain can be exhausting, painful, and restrictive. If you or a loved one is suffering from low back pain, it may be due to a spinal disorder. To diagnose the condition, schedule an appointment with a reliable orthopaedic. Dubai has some of the best orthopaedic surgeons in the world. 

Just search for the best hospitals in Dubai on the internet and schedule an orthopaedic appointment. Good luck!