What causes lower back pain?
Lower back pain can range from mild soreness to severe, debilitating pain. Whether you’ve experienced an injury at work or due to a car accident or other trauma, the Ortho One team can help you. Common causes of lumbar spine pain include:
- Whiplash
- Arthritis
- Degenerative joint disease
- Sprains and strains
- Herniated discs
- Spondylolisthesis
- Bone spurs
The team also provides care if you experience sharp, shooting pain or numbness and tingling from your lower back into your legs and feet. These nerve pain symptoms can be the results of disc herniations, arthritis changes of the spine, and muscle spasms.
What types of injuries trigger lower back pain?
Certain movements and activities are more likely to trigger low back pain or flare-up a chronic lumbar spine issue, including:
- Slips and falls
- Auto accidents
- Repetitive movements
- Bending and twisting of the lower back
- Improper lifting techniques
- Lifting more weight than you’re used to
- Sudden increases in physical demands at work
- Standing on a hard surface throughout your work day
If you experience back pain with any of these movements or activities, see the specialists at Ortho One Jacksonville for a thorough physical exam and diagnostic testing. In some cases, the team may recommend work restrictions or avoiding certain activities that aggravate your pain.
How are lumbar spine issues diagnosed?
To receive a diagnosis and understand the cause of your back pain, the team begins with a consultation to understand the location of your pain, its severity and frequency, and any activities or trauma that may have caused it.
Your provider then completes a physical exam, measuring your range of motion, checking the strength of the muscles in your lower back, hips, and legs, and assessing basic nerve function. Orthopedic tests are then performed to identify specific movements that cause pain and put pressure on your lower back.
X-rays or an MRI may be ordered, if necessary. Based on their findings, the team explains your diagnosis and recommends an appropriate treatment plan.
How are lumbar spine issues treated?
If you’re experiencing mild to moderate lower back pain, the team may recommend conservative treatment methods, including nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications, hot or cold therapy, rest, or physical therapy. For more serious conditions, the team may also offer joint injections, prescription pain medications, or a surgical treatment.
To discuss your low back pain with the experts at Ortho One Jacksonville, call the office or schedule a visit online today.
