|
|
|
|
|
|
 Dr. T. Sunil Thomas  |
Low Back PainLow Back Pain (LBP) is one of the most frequent problems treated by spinal surgeons in the United States. Four out of five adults have at least one episode of LBP during their lifetimes. LBP and degenerative joint disease account for 4.9 percent of all adult physician visits, and the direct medical costs related to low back pain exceed $25 billion annually. Fortunately, in about 90 percent of patients, acute LBP resolves within six weeks regardless of treatment methods. Why is Low Back Pain (LBP) common?Your lower back is a complex structure consisting of 5 lumbar vertebrae (bones), with disks in between the vertebrae, which act as cushions and stabilizers. In addition there are small joints (facet joints), which allow movement and provide stability. The spinal cord and nerves travel through a central canal in the lumbar vertebrae, allowing your brain to communicate with the muscles of your legs. The lower back connects your upper body to the pelvis and legs and provides you with both mobility and strength. This mobility allows movements such as turning, twisting and bending; and the strength allows you to stand, walk and lift. Proper functioning of your lower back is needed for almost all activities of daily living. Given the lower back’s critical role, it is easy to see how low back pain can readily occur. What are common causes of LBP?Sprain and Strains: These are the most common causes of LBP. They usually occur when the muscles are poorly conditioned or overworked. Factors which increase the likelihood of injury include:
Age: “Wear and Tear”, as well as inherited factors will cause degenerative changes in the disks. Age-related penomena such as degenerative disk disease, and arthritic changes in the facet joints can cause low back pain and stiffness. Arthritic bone spurs can also irritate nerves and cause leg pain. Osteoporosis and Fractures: All bones lose strength over time and the lumbar vertebrae, particularly in postmenopausal women, can easily be fractured from the stress of lifting or everyday activities. Protruding Disks: The disks, which are of a jelly-like consistency, can rupture and push on a nerve, leading to sciatic pain. Most of the time these disk herniations do tend to get better, with only about 5-10 percent needing surgery. How is LBP diagnosed?Most cases of LBP are not serious and respond to simple treatments. Your orthopedist will conduct a full history and thorough physical exam of your spine and legs. In cases where the pain is severe or not responding to treatment, further imaging studies in the form of x-rays, CAT scan or MRI will be needed. How is LBP treated?Once the patient is examined and the diagnosis is determined, most episodes of LBP can be safely treated with a prescribed period of activity modification and pain medication to diminish the inflammation. Although a brief period of rest may be helpful, most studies show that activity modification speeds healing and recovery. After the initial pain has eased, a rehabilitation program emphasizing strengthening of the back and abdominal muscles should be started. In addition, stretching exercises to increase your flexibility should also be done. Surgery for LBP is generally done when the pain is unmanageable and has failed to respond to conservative treatment. The most common reason for surgery on the lower back is to remove pressure from a herniated disk which is compressing a nerve. How is LBP prevented?The best long-term treatment is an active prevention program.
For more information, or to schedule an appointment with Dr. Thomas » 715.858.0320 Eau Claire Spine & Orthopedics or visit www.ecspine.com |
|
© 2008 OakLeaf Medical Network and OakLeaf Surgical Hospital. All rights reserved.
