Low Back Pain

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Low Back Pain

If you’re bothered by back pain, you’re not alone. Studies show that eight out of 10 people deal with back pain at least once during their lifetime. And low back pain is a leading cause of missed work and job-related disability in the United States.

For many people, pain is temporary and can be managed with time and Tylenol. It’s normal to have a sore back after hauling junk from your garage, or carrying a baby during the final month of pregnancy.

When low back pain is severe or constant, and interferes with your ability to move or sleep, it’s a good idea to see your doctor.

Causes of Low Back Pain

You can develop back pain for many reasons, ranging from overuse injuries to age-related spine changes. Most low back pain is “mechanical” in nature. This means it’s caused by a problem with one of the bones, muscles, nerves or tissues in your back. Causes of low back pain include:

Sprains or strains from lifting something heavy, or using poor lifting techniques
Osteoporosis
Nerve disorders, including sciatica

Spine injuries such as fractured or dislocated vertebrae
Degenerative disc disease, including arthritis, spinal stenosis and herniated discs

Low Back Pain Treatment at Mercy

Low back pain may be common, but that doesn’t mean you can simply shrug it off or push through it. Mercy’s specialists know that for many people, low back pain is not just a nuisance. It’s unbearable.

Our team has helped thousands of patients pinpoint the cause of their pain – and overcome it. Your treatment plan will depend on several factors, including your diagnosis and the severity of your symptoms. It may include:

Orthopedic rehabilitation - to strengthen your back muscles and improve flexibility and posture
Medication - medication can relieve pain and/or prevent muscle spasms
Steroid shots (cortisone injections) - these injections help to reduce inflammation

Back brace - a back brace can provide stability
Surgery - orthopedic surgeries, such as arthroscopic spine surgery and motion preservation surgery, correct specific problems, such as a compressed nerve or fractured vertebrae

If your low back pain has become a burden, talk to your Mercy physician about your treatment options. Together we’ll figure out what’s wrong – and find the best way to fix it.