Usually recognized by lower back pain, low back pain is one of the most common conditions worldwide. In some cases, it may radiate to one side of the back or one leg.
It is one of the leading causes of disability worldwide, affecting individuals of all ages and ethnic origins.. It is estimated that around 80% of people will experience low back pain at some point in their lives., but it is more common in middle-aged and older women. Low back pain is estimated to affect around 60% of those over 60 years of age.
It can also alter the quality of life of young people and adolescents, especially those with a sedentary style or who practice high-impact sports. Moreover, this pain is common during pregnancy due to changes in the body and posture.
Its causes can be diverse. Some of the most common include injuries to the muscles of the lower back and ligaments of the back, herniated discs, sciatica, scoliosis, inflammation of the vertebral joints or spinal stenosis. Sedentary lifestyle, poor posture, obesity, smoking, and stress can also cause it.
How to treat low back pain?
He treatment against low back pain it depends on the underlying source of the pain and may include rest and physical activity. Depending on the severity, some rest time may be needed to allow the back muscles to heal. After rest, regular physical activity is recommended to keep muscles strong and prevent future episodes.
Pain relievers and anti-inflammatories can help ease discomfort and reduce inflammation. Strengthening and stretching exercises for the back muscles also help improve posture and reduce stress on the spine.
Alternative therapies such as acupuncture, ozone therapy, chiropractic and massage can help lower back pain and improve back function.
Low back pain, is it operated?
In severe cases such as a herniated disc, which compresses a nerve root and makes it difficult to move a leg, surgery may be necessary to correct the underlying cause. In these procedures, by case, minimally invasive techniques are used that allow shorter recovery time, less postoperative pain and better results in spinal stability.
In addition, in some patients, blocks are often indicated to alleviate symptoms. A block consists of introducing a fine needle to the point of pain under local anesthesia and administering a drug or transmitting radiofrequency impulses. These are performed in the operating room and the patient returns home at the end of the procedure.
Neurosurgeon, Faculty of Medicine, University of Buenos Aires.
Source: Ambito
I am an author and journalist who has worked in the entertainment industry for over a decade. I currently work as a news editor at a major news website, and my focus is on covering the latest trends in entertainment. I also write occasional pieces for other outlets, and have authored two books about the entertainment industry.
