Lower Back Pain
Lower back pain is a very common ailment. About 75% of people will experience pain in their lower back at some point in their lives. In general, low back pain is not indicative of a serious condition, and taking anti-inflammatory medication and remaining active is enough to properly treat the problem.
Simple low back pain accounts for every 19 out of 20 cases of acute lower back problems. The term "simple low back pain" means that the pain is not related to disease or injury. This type of pain often appears after lifting something heavy, twisting the back or sleeping in an awkward position. Simple low back pain usually disappears within a week, but it is fairly common for pain to reappear.
Nerve root pain accounts for less than 1 in 20 cases of lower back pain. This injury means that a nerve in the spinal cord is being irritated or pressed on. The pain is more intense when moving the back, coughing or sneezing. There may be numbness or tingling in part of a buttock, leg or foot. The pain generally disappears on its own after a few weeks.
The best way to prevent low back pain is to keep the body fit and remain active. Taking daily walks, running or swimming are easy ways to keep the body in shape and healthy. Trauma to the low back can be avoided by being mindful when lifting heavy objects. Never lift things that are too heavy for you, and when lifting bend at the knees and use the lower body to help in the lift. It is also important to avoid twisting the back awkwardly and having poor posture when sitting or standing.