Imagine that your father is a retired worker who has been suffering from a long history of low back pain. One day, he could barely get out of bed because of discomfort in his lower back, and you thought it was just a consequence of ordinary exertion, he was given a hot pack and painkillers. However, as time went on, there was no relief from the symptoms, and even the pain intensified at night, making it difficult for him to sleep. Eventually, a detailed physical examination reveals the real cause behind it – not a simple muscle fatigue, but a disease that requires long-term treatment. This story tells us that low back pain can be a warning sign of a more serious health problem.
Low back pain may be a non-exertional source of the disease
Hidden alarm: herniated disc
Herniated disc is not only a common disease in middle-aged and elderly people, but also affects young people more and more. This happens when a part of the disc herniates, pressing on the nerves and triggering severe pain from the back to the legs. If you've experienced sudden, sharp pain after bending over or lifting heavy weights, it could be a sign of a herniated disc. The diagnosis is usually confirmed by an MRI or CT scan, which helps doctors see the details of the discs.
Inflammation is creeping in: ankylosing spondylitis
Ankylosing spondylitis is a chronic inflammatory disease that primarily affects the spine and is more common in young men. It causes gradual stiffness and curvature of the spine, with early symptoms including back pain and stiffness late at night or early in the morning, which usually improves after activity. Diagnosing this condition requires a thorough clinical evaluation and specific imaging tests, such as X-rays or MRI.
More than just a sign of age: osteoporosis
Osteoporosis is often mistaken for just the norm in the elderly, but it's actually a preventable and treatable condition. Osteoporosis causes bones to become weak, and a slight fall or stress can lead to fractures, most commonly in the form of back pain. Osteoporosis is usually diagnosed by bone densitometry, which is a simple and non-invasive test.
When kidney problems knock on the door: back pain caused by kidney disease
The kidneys are located on both sides of the back, and when problems occur with them, it often manifests as back pain. Many kidney diseases, such as kidney stones or kidney infections, cause sudden, severe pain that often feels like it radiates from the back to the side or lower abdomen. Prompt urinalysis and ultrasonography can help confirm the diagnosis so that treatment can be started as early as possible.
Warning signs: When do you need medical treatment for low back pain?
Low back pain is common, but certain symptoms indicate the need for professional medical intervention. Low back pain caused by ordinary exertion usually resolves on its own after rest. However, the following conditions may be signs of a more serious condition:
Persistent pain: low back pain that persists for more than six weeks without significant relief may indicate disc problems or other structural conditions.
Severe pain: Severe pain, especially at night or at rest, should raise suspicion of inflammatory disease.
Sudden weight loss: Unexplained weight loss with pain can be an early sign of certain types of cancer.
Motor dysfunction: if leg weakness or difficulty walking is found, nerve compression may be involved.
Accompanied by other symptoms, such as fever, difficulty urinating, or severe, persistent gastrointestinal problems, seek immediate medical attention.
If you encounter any of the above symptoms, it is recommended to seek medical attention in time and undergo corresponding examinations, such as X-ray, MRI, etc., to identify the cause and avoid the problem from worsening.
Holistic management: daily prevention and treatment of low back pain
Adjust your lifestyle habits
Correct sitting posture: Maintain the natural curve of your spine, use a supported chair, and avoid working in the same position for long periods of time.
Sleep wisely: Choose a mattress with a moderate firmness, sleep on your side is preferred, and place a small pillow between your knees to keep your spine balanced.
Physical Therapy & Exercise
Stretching exercises: Stretch the waist and back every day to enhance muscle elasticity and reduce muscle tension.
Strengthen your core: Perform regular abdominal and back muscle training, such as Pilates and yoga, to enhance trunk support.
Medical intervention
Medications: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can relieve inflammation and pain, but they should be used as directed.
Physical therapy: Electrotherapy, heat therapy and other means to reduce pain and improve function.
Long-term strategy
Weight management: Maintain a healthy weight and reduce the burden on the spine.
Regular check-ups: Especially for people with chronic diseases such as osteoporosis, regular bone density check-ups should be done.
With the above measures, you can not only effectively manage low back pain, but also prevent it from getting worse. The key lies in early identification, early treatment and active management in daily life. Such an integrative approach can help patients manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life in the long term.