Low Back Pain Treatment in Sacramento
Are you one of the millions affected by low back pain?
Understanding these common causes of back pain is the first step towards effective management and relief. Chronic low back pain develops over months to years, often beginning with sudden and short episodes of pain which become increasingly frequent and severe. Low back pain that occurs suddenly, sometimes overnight or after strenuous activity, is called acute low back pain and may have a very different cause than chronic back pain. The effects of low back pain have huge economic and societal impact in the United States. Chronic low back pain is one of the most common reasons for seeking medical attention and for missed work, low back pain is the most common type of pain experienced by adults. In the U.S. 28% of adults report having chronic low back pain, and with 44% of those reporting low back pain as having the pain for five years or more. Many people with chronic low back pain report a reduced quality of life as a result of their suffering and activity restrictions.
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Risk Factors
There are a number of factors which predispose someone for developing chronic low back pain
Risk factors include:
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Low physical activity
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decreased strength and flexibility put more strain on the joints and discs of the spine potentially leading to degenerative changes, inflammation, and pain​
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Smoking
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​Smokers have increased rates of back pain. This may occur because coughing which can provoke disc herniations. Smoking also can decrease oxygen transport to the spine and the discs, possibly leading to earlier degenerative changes
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Obesity
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puts added strain on spine and joints of pelvis​
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Advanced age
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the incidence of chronic low back pain increases beginning in late 30's early 40's ​
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Gender
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women more than men
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Family history of back pain
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High physical stress at work.
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an the subsequent added stress and trauma to the muscle and spine​
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Psychological conditions:
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people with depression and anxiety appear to have a greater risk of back pain
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stress can cause muscle tension and spasm, a potential source back pain
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What causes chronic low back pain?
We know that low back pain is a common source pain and disability in the United States. Let's take a look at some of the most common causes of low back pain. The list below is not all inclusive as there are many causes of low back pain, we are highlighting the most common sources.
More common causes of low back pain include:
Degenerative Disc Disease: As we age, the discs between our vertebrae naturally degenerate, leading to a condition known as degenerative disc disease. This can result in reduced disc height, loss of disc hydration, and even disc herniation, all of which contribute to chronic low back pain.
Facet Joint Dysfunction: The facet joints are small joints located between each vertebra that provide stability and enable movement in the spine. Facet joint dysfunction, or facet arthropathy, is often caused by arthritis or injury, can result in chronic low back pain, stiffness, and decreased mobility.
Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction: The sacroiliac joint connects the sacrum (triangular bone at the base of the spine) to the pelvis. Dysfunction in this joint--sacroilitis--can lead to chronic low back pain, typically felt on one, but sometimes both sides of the lower back or buttocks.
​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​Spinal Stenosis: Spinal stenosis occurs when the spaces within the spine narrow, putting pressure on the spinal cord and nerves. This condition often develops gradually with age and can cause chronic low back pain, as well as tingling, numbness, and weakness in the legs.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​
Herniated Disc: A herniated disc, also known as a slipped or ruptured disc, occurs when the soft inner core of a disc leaks out through the tougher outer layer. This can irritate nearby nerves, leading to chronic low back pain and possibly radiating pain down the legs (sciatica).
Ankylosing spondylitis: This inflammatory disease, an autoimmune arthrits, can cause inflammation of the joints and ligaments of the spine, which can cause some of the bones in the spine to fuse. This can cause pain throught the spine, and makes the spine less flexible.
Musculoskeletal pain: Chronic muscle strain, imbalances can lead to chronic low back pain.