Lower back pain:

Causes, prevention and therapeutic approaches

Anyone who is affected by back pain that causes persistent or recurring dull pain in the lower back is not alone. Doctors speak of the lumbar spine syndrome (LWS syndrome), which occurs more frequently than pain in the cervical or thoracic spine. Here in particular, an early visit to the doctor and comprehensive diagnostics are important, because back pain in the lower back is particularly painful and restrictive in everyday life.

Those affected usually have a catchy history or previous illness such as a herniated disc, nerve damage or muscle tension, lumbago or serious signs of wear and tear. However, the development of back pain in the lower back also promotes weakened trunk muscles and psychosomatic factors, in particular stress and psychological strain.

Digression: How does back pain manifest itself in the lower back?

The lumbar spine is basically made up of five vertebrae in the lower back. If it bends forward, we’re talking about a hollow back – if, on the other hand, it becomes excessively flat due to stress, we’re talking about a flat back. Such loads very often lead to back pain in the lower back, which is aggravated by movements that we often perform during the day, such as sideways turns or bending movements. The more we strain our lumbar spine in this way, the more susceptible it is to injury and wear and tear.

A dull, persistent, or recurring pain is symptomatic of low back pain. If this pain radiates into the legs, it is called sciatica/lumbago.

What Causes Lower Back Pain?

As discussed in the previous paragraph, low back pain can be severe and manifest over time. The main causes are a combination of incorrect and excessive strain on the lumbar spine, which is particularly vulnerable. The dilemma for many of those affected: They do physical work and then fall into supposed protective postures, such as walking upright, or they perform exercises incorrectly. Both can put additional strain on the lumbar spine.

In connection with completely normal signs of wear and tear, there is a significantly increased risk, especially with increasing age.

How can I prevent lower back pain?

It is important that those affected consult a doctor as soon as possible in order to clarify exactly what causes are at work here and where a diagnosis should be made. In the case of lumbago, for example, it is advisable to provide relief with a local anesthetic. Anyone affected by acute back pain can use ointments. Massages and  heat treatments  are also recommended for relief. However, if you want to effectively prevent back pain in the lower back, you should work on strengthening your back muscles with suitable training, avoid strenuous movements in everyday life and, above all, reduce stress, which is often involved in the development of pain.