In this article, learn about the causes and treatments of lower back pain when bending over, as well as some tips for prevention. We also describe when to see a doctor.
Causes
Some causes of lower back pain when bending include:Lower back strain
Lower back strain is a common cause of back pain when bending over. The position can put significant pressure on the lower back, causing the muscles and ligaments to stretch excessively.
A strain in the area can also cause inflammation, which can lead to muscle spasms.
Other symptoms
Stiffness in the lower back, muscle spasms, difficulty maintaining an upright posture, and a limited range of motion can all indicate a lower back strain.
Treatments
Resting the back for 1–3 days can help reduce muscle pain, as can taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Some over-the-counter (OTC) options include ibuprofen and naproxen.
Massage, applying ice and heat, and using electrical muscle stimulation therapies may also help. Physical therapy exercises can strengthen the back and help prevent further injuries.
Other symptoms
Sciatica can also limit the range of motion in one or both legs. If a person has sciatica-like symptoms and loses control of their bowel or bladder, they should seek medical attention immediately.
Treatments
A person may require surgery to remove the part of the disk that is pressing on the nerve, though this is rare. The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons estimate that sciatica goes away without surgery in 80–90% of people who have the condition.
If back pain worsens in spite of home care or does not resolve within 2 weeks, it may be a good idea to see a doctor. The doctor can help determine whether to consult a specialist, such as an orthopaedic doctor or a neurosurgeon.
Nonsurgical treatments can include applying ice and heat, movement, and gentle stretching exercises to relieve inflammation.
Self-care tips
A strain in the area can also cause inflammation, which can lead to muscle spasms.
Other symptoms
Stiffness in the lower back, muscle spasms, difficulty maintaining an upright posture, and a limited range of motion can all indicate a lower back strain.
Treatments
Resting the back for 1–3 days can help reduce muscle pain, as can taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Some over-the-counter (OTC) options include ibuprofen and naproxen.
Massage, applying ice and heat, and using electrical muscle stimulation therapies may also help. Physical therapy exercises can strengthen the back and help prevent further injuries.
Sciatica
Sciatica is a condition that can result from a herniated disk. If the disk presses on the sciatic nerve in the lower spine, it can cause sensations of pressure, burning, or severe pain that travel from the lower back down one or both legs.Other symptoms
Sciatica can also limit the range of motion in one or both legs. If a person has sciatica-like symptoms and loses control of their bowel or bladder, they should seek medical attention immediately.
Treatments
A person may require surgery to remove the part of the disk that is pressing on the nerve, though this is rare. The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons estimate that sciatica goes away without surgery in 80–90% of people who have the condition.
When to see a doctor
A person should seek immediate medical attention if they are unable to move any muscle or joint in their lower extremities or if they lose control of their bowels or bladder. Any of these situations constitutes a medical emergency that requires fast treatment to prevent further nerve damage.If back pain worsens in spite of home care or does not resolve within 2 weeks, it may be a good idea to see a doctor. The doctor can help determine whether to consult a specialist, such as an orthopaedic doctor or a neurosurgeon.
Nonsurgical treatments can include applying ice and heat, movement, and gentle stretching exercises to relieve inflammation.
Self-care tips
- bending only at the knees and hips instead of at the waist, to reduce the risk of spinal fractures and muscle strain
- avoiding twisting the spine when bending to reach for something
- keeping the feet firmly planted shoulder-width apart to reduce the risk of falling forward
- refraining from carrying objects that are too heavy, for example, by taking multiple trips and using assistive devices such as rolling carts
- carrying objects as close to the body as possible and holding them at waist level.
- taking OTC NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen or naproxen, to relieve pain and inflammation
- resting the back for a few days, then engaging in gentle stretching exercises and low-impact physical activity, such as walking
- wearing a supportive device such as a back brace to prevent discomfort.
Summary
If a person has tried home care techniques and continues to experience back pain when bending over, they should talk to their doctor.Learning to bend and lift safely can often help prevent further injury.
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/325720.php
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