Pain in the lower back affects up to 90% of Americans at some point in their lifetime. Fortunately, most low back pain goes away on its own in a few days to a few weeks. This short-term, or acute, low back pain is usually caused by an injury to the structures of the low back or by arthritis. Pain that lasts three or more months is called chronic back pain.

Back pain can be caused by inflammation of joints, muscles, or ligaments. Poor posture, obesity, or lifting something the wrong way can cause back pain. Pain also can develop after you sit or stand too long or when you are under physical or mental stress.

Self care  |  Medical Treatments  |  Prevention  |  More Health Information

Self care

Use ice packs for 20 minutes 3 or 4 times a day during the first few days of a muscle sprain or spasm.

• A hot bath or heating pad can help reduce pain and stiffness.
• Take a medication for pain and inflammation.
• Maintain good posture to keep your body’s weight aligned and reduce stress on the back muscles.
• Weight loss is important to prevent future problems.
• Avoid lifting heavy objects and repeated bending and twisting. Change positions often during the day and use a chair with good lower back support.
• If you try self-care of your back pain and it is not better after 72 hours, call your health care provider.

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Medical Treatments

• Muscle relaxers can be used during the first few days to ease muscle spasms, but they often cause drowsiness.
• In some instances, steroid medications may be injected directly into the epidural space to ease sciatica pain.
• Physical therapy may be prescribed by your doctor
• Surgery is rarely needed for back pain or sciatica. It is considered only after months of treatment.

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Prevention

Here are some general tips on how to maintain a healthy back and avoid causes of low back pain.

• Good posture is important for keeping the spine healthy. Stand straight. Keeping your body aligned takes stress off your back muscles.
• Avoid lifting heavy objects. When you do lift, bend your knees and keep your back straight.
• When working while seated, choose a chair that has good support for your lower back.
• Maintain a healthy weight. If you are overweight, you will put more stress on your lower back.
• Try not to reach for objects that are above your head. Use a step stool or a device that helps you reach objects on higher shelves. Store items that you use often on lower shelves.
• Avoid repeated bending or twisting.

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More Health Information

Health Library | Learn more about back problems and injuries

Health Library |Learn about back and neck pain



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