LOW BACK PAIN
Q: I have pain in my lower back. What can I do to feel better?
A: Low back pain is among the top five reason people seek health care. Oftentimes, episodes of pain are a reflection of our inactivity and deconditioning…and then we ask our bodies to perform a task for which it is not prepared. The majority of low back pain is NOT a herniated disk, but rather pain that originates from muscles and ligaments that have been overused and strained. Some home treatments consist of topical heat or ice, gentle but persistent stretching, and remaining active- NOT lying in bed for two days. Oral mild analgesics such as Tylenol or Advil/Aleve are reasonable, but the cornerstone of mechanical low back pain is therapy- whether patient initiated or referral to a formal physical therapist. Have reasonable expectations regarding the resolution of the back ache- it can take several weeks. You must be dedicated to the therapy and changing the way you lift and bend- for a while. As you improve, continue stretching and core-strengthening exercises, more so as an ongoing preventative measure. When should you seek medical help and opinion?
• Pain that is more present in one leg (especially the lower leg and/or foot)
• Trouble controlling your bowels or bladder
• Numb or dead feeling in your feet/toes
• Pain that is not improving over 3-4 weeks as you comply with the topical measures and stretching/strengthening exercises
Dr. Sam Watts
Questions can be submitted directly to the providers, called in to Mercy Clinic at 417/876-5851 or submitted through their new App mymercy.net.
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