Lumbar Spine Pain
Low Back pain is a significant public health problem worldwide.
Lumbar spine pain refers to pain that is felt in the lower back, specifically in the area of the lumbar vertebrae. The lumbar region is the lower portion of the spine and consists of five vertebrae that are responsible for supporting the weight of the upper body and providing flexibility and range of motion for the lower body.
Chronic low back pain (LBP) is one of the most common pain syndromes and represents an enormous burden and cost generator for society.
Symptoms and Diagnosis
Symptoms of lumbar spine pain can vary widely depending on the underlying cause and may include localized pain in the lower back, as well as radiating pain, numbness, or tingling sensations in the legs or feet.
Lumbar spine pain can be caused by a variety of factors, including injury, poor posture, arthritis, or degenerative disc disease. In some cases, the pain may be acute and resolve on its own with rest and conservative treatments. However, in other cases, the pain may be chronic and require more aggressive interventions, such as surgery.
Diagnostic tests for lumbar spine pain may include X-rays, CT scans, MRIs, and nerve conduction studies to help identify the underlying cause and guide treatment decisions.
Most Common Syndromes
Lumbar facet joints (FJs) constitute a common source of pain and remain a misunderstood, misdiagnosed and improperly treated pathology. Facet osteoarthritis is the most frequent form of facet pathology.
Radicular Pain
Radicular pain is a term applied to describe pain that results from the stimulation of, or a disorder of, a nerve root. Irritation of the nerves in the spine can cause a variety of symptoms, which differ from person to person. Common symptoms include: pain and increased sensitivity; pins and needles, and numbness; muscle weakness; altered sensations such as trickling water. Nerve pain is usually described as burning in nature, and normally spreads below the knee or elbow in the affected limb. Often nerve pain and back pain are present at the same time.
Facet Joint Syndrome
Lumbar facet joints (FJs) constitute a common source of pain and remain a misunderstood, misdiagnosed and improperly treated pathology. Facet osteoarthritis is the most frequent form of facet pathology. FJ pain may be referred distally into the lower limb, thereby mimicking sciatica. “Pseudo-radicular” lumbar pain typically radiates uni- or bilaterally to the buttock and the trochanteric region, the groin and the thighs, ending above the knee, without neurological deficits. However, radiating pain may reach the foot, mimicking sciatic pain, …
Sacroiliac Joint Pain
Patients experiencing Sacroiliac Joint (SIJ) pain may present with a wide variety of complaints. Gluteal pain near or surrounding the posterior superior iliac spine is the most common region. Other symptoms include groin pain, pain radiating into the lower extremity, numbness, and clicking or popping in the posterior pelvis. Pain, clicking, or both with transitional activities such as getting up from a chair or in and out of a car may also be noted.
Lumbar spinal stenosis
The term lumbar spinal stenosis (LSS) refers to the anatomical narrowing of the spinal canal and is associated with a plethora of clinical symptoms. The clinical features of the condition are heterogeneous, and often, but not always, include neurological symptoms. Typically, patient symptoms comprise unilateral or bilateral (exertional) back and leg pain, which slowly develops and persists over several months, or even years. The back pain is localized to the lumbar spine and can radiate towards the gluteal region, groin and legs, frequently displaying a pseudo radicular pattern.
Discogenic pain
Discogenic pain shares clinical signs with lumbosacral radicular pain. There are no specific characteristics in the patient’s history that confirm or disprove the diagnosis of discogenic low back pain. More typical features include persistent, nociceptive low back, groin and/or leg pain that worsens with axial loading and improves with recumbence.
Treatment Approaches
We have a team expert in diagnosis and management of the cervical and lumbar pain.
Pharmacological Management
Pharmacological management pain is commonly part of the treatment and a wide range of drugs can be used to manage pain.
Radiofrequency
Radiofrequency ablation is a minimally invasive procedure guided for ultrasound or fluoroscopy.
Corticosteroid Injection
Corticosteroids medications are used to reduce pain and inflammation and can be taken oral or through an injection.
Crioablation
Cryoablation uses cold temperatures and is a minimally invasive procedure guided for ultrasound or fluoroscopy.
Nucleoplasty
Nucleoplasty is an advanced injection procedure guided for fluoroscopy for treating the disc herniation.
Prevention and Lifestyle Changes
Maintaining a healthy spine is important for overall health and wellbeing. The spine plays a vital role in supporting the body and facilitating movement, and it is susceptible to injury and wear and tear over time. Here are some tips for maintaining a healthy spine.
Practice Good Posture
Poor posture can put strain on the spine and lead to back pain. When sitting or standing, maintain a neutral spine position with the ears, shoulders, and hips aligned. Avoid slouching or hunching forward.
Exercise Regularly Exercise
Exercising regularly can help to strengthen the muscles that support the spine and improve flexibility and range of motion. Low-impact exercises, such as walking, swimming, and cycling, are particularly beneficial for the spine.
Maintain a Healthy Weight
Excess weight can put added stress on the spine, particularly in the lower back. Maintaining a healthy weight can help to reduce the risk of spine-related conditions, such as herniated discs and osteoarthritis.
Use Proper Lifting Techniques
When lifting heavy objects, bend at the knees and keep the spine straight. Avoid twisting or bending at the waist, which can put strain on the spine.
Take Breaks from Sitting
Prolonged sitting can put pressure on the spine and lead to back pain. Take breaks every 30 minutes to stand up, stretch, and move around.
Practice Stress Reduction Techniques Stress can cause muscle tension and contribute to back pain. Practicing stress reduction techniques, such as meditation or yoga, can help to reduce tension in the muscles and promote relaxation.
Sleep on a Supportive Mattress
A supportive mattress can help to maintain proper spinal alignment and reduce the risk of back pain. Choose a mattress that is firm enough to provide support but soft enough to contour to the body.
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