How to Identify Causes of Lower Back Pain

Have you ever been forced to call in sick because you couldn't get up out of bed without wincing in pain? The worst thing about severe lower back pain is that it can immobilize you. Treating lower back pain can be like trying to capture a tornado in a bottle if you don't know the cause of lower back pain to begin with. Fortunately, most back muscle pain goes away after you've rested a while. However, if your problems continue to persist longer than you're comfortable with, apply the following steps to give yourself a lower back pain diagnosis.

Instructions

• 1

  Don't panic. If you are the victim of severe lower back pain, you may feel as though your outlook is grim. However, this is probably far from the truth. According to data compiled by American Family Physician, 95% of patients who suffer from back pain recover in 12 weeks or less. Chronic cases of injury account for only 2% to 7% of back pain injuries.

• 2

  Consider your weight. Fast food is fun to eat, but in excess it can be a real burden to your lower back. Believe it or not, a very effective method for treating lower back pain can often be to simply change your diet. While your body shape and your propensity to be overweight may be a genetically predetermined aspect of your life, if you make a habit of eating healthier foods (and drinking water instead of sodas), the pounds will begin to slip off over time.

• 3

  Be aware that accidents, exercise and strenuous activity can trigger lower back pain. Sometimes, we get so busy trying to get from point A to point Z that by the end of day, we are just happy to get to bed and forget about all of the work we put our bodies through. However, living in the fast lane can be a common cause of lower back pain. If you are going to perform heavy lifting throughout the day, lift intelligently by keeping your back straight and by relying on your leg muscles.

• 4

  Know your family medical history. The condition of your spine may be related to congenital disease such as scoliosis or even a disease which may be inherited such as arthritic spine disease. Learn about any lower back pain issues experienced by your parents or fellow family members before you ask a professional for a lower back pain diagnosis. Thus, you will be armed with vital information which will help this professional give you the most accurate diagnosis possible.

• 5

  Arrange for a consultation with a medical practitioner. If your back muscle pain continues to be severe and shows no signs of going away, you should do yourself a favor and arrange to see a professional. Remember, most back pain is only temporary; however, in certain cases, back pain can be a symptom of other illness within your body. For example, a kidney infection, a bacterial infection or even atherosclerosis can be the root cause of the lower back pain you're feeling. It's better to err on the side of caution than it is to let the problem grow worse.