What makes up the spine? The lower spine consists of five bones, called the lumbar vertebrae. The vertebrae support the body and protect the spinal core and nerves. Between each vertebra is a disk filled with a jelly-like material. The disks act as shock absorbers for the vertebrae. Along the spine are many nerves. Injury to these nerves can cause pain. What can cause low back injuries? Many things can cause low back injuries - muscle strain or spasm, sprains of ligaments (which attach bone to bone), joint problems or a "slipped disk." The most common cause of low back pain is using your back muscles in activities you're not used to, like lifting heavy furniture, playing basketball or doing yard work. A slipped disk happens when the disk between the bones bulges and presses on nerves. This is often caused by twisting while lifting. But many people won't know what caused their slipped disk. Back pain can also follow normal activities such as bending over the sink to brush your teeth. Back pain may be made worse by stress, long periods of inactivity or being in an unusual position for a long time. Call your doctor if
What should I do when I've hurt my lower back? The best position for relief when your back hurts is to lie on your back on the floor with pillows under your knees, with your hips and knees bent and your feet on a chair, or just with your hips and knees bent. This takes the pressure and weight off your back. If you're resting a hurt back, you may need a few days of this sort of rest. Resting longer than this can cause your muscles to weaken, which can slow down your recovery. Even if it hurts, walk around for a few minutes every few hours. If you're resting a tired back, stay in one of these positions for five to 25 minutes at a time. Heating pads can help to relax painful muscle spasms. Use heat for 20 to 30 minutes at a time. Ice packs and massages may also give relief. Medicines that reduce pain or swelling include ASA (some examples are Aspirin, Entrophen), ibuprofen (some examples are Advil, Medipren, Motrin IB) and acetaminophen (some examples are Panadol, Tylenol). Is there relief for ongoing back problems? Treatment of ongoing back problems must be directed at the cause. This may mean losing weight (because being overweight can make back pain worse), getting your muscles in better shape, and improving your posture when you're standing, sitting and sleeping. Most people feel much better within a few weeks. Serious problems are rare. Tips for preventing back strain
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Low Back Pain Info
Posted by
Faraz Uddin
on Wednesday, September 9, 2009
Labels:
Low Back Pain Info
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