Lower back pain, physical therapy, treatment: Focus Physical✓

Lower back pain is one of the most common forms of pain that affects people of all ages. This pain, which usually occurs in the lumbar (lower) spine, can come on suddenly and be severe or develop gradually and become chronic. Although back pain can be caused by a variety of factors, the essence of lower back pain is that the spine, muscles, ligaments, and nerves that make up this area can be under a lot of stress.

The lower spine contains discs that serve as "cushions" between the vertebrae, muscles that allow movement, and nerves that allow communication between the spine and the rest of the body. Any change in the structure of this part of the spine can cause pain.

Lower back pain can manifest in various ways, and symptoms depend on the cause of the pain. It can be mild and intermittent or severe and chronic. Recognizing the symptoms is crucial, as they can help with timely diagnosis and treatment.

Here are some of the most common symptoms:

Acute pain is sudden and intense, often after an injury or overuse. It can be sharp and localized, especially when bending, lifting heavy objects, or changing positions.

Stiffness in the back: Stiffness occurs due to muscle tension or disc problems, which makes it difficult to turn or bend. This symptom is especially pronounced in the morning or after sitting for a long time.

Pain that spreads to the legs (sciatica): Pain caused by a herniated disc can spread down the legs, from the back to the hips and feet, and is often accompanied by tingling or an electric sensation in the legs.

Weakness in the legs and arms: Nerve compression can cause weakness in the legs or arms, making it difficult to move or perform daily activities.

Numbness or loss of sensation: Numbness in the legs or feet is often the result of pressure on a nerve, which is typical of spinal stenosis or a herniated disc.

Pain when moving, coughing, or sneezing: Pain may become more intense with movements such as bending, coughing, or sneezing, due to additional pressure on the nerve roots or discs.

Difficulty sitting and standing: People with lower back pain often have difficulty sitting or standing for long periods of time, and the pain may increase if they remain in the same position for a long time.

Increased pain when carrying heavy objects: Lifting heavy objects or performing activities that require bending the spine can increase pain due to pressure on the muscles, ligaments, and discs.

Morning discomfort: Pain is often worse in the morning or at night due to prolonged lying down, which can cause stiffness and discomfort in the muscles.

Understanding these symptoms is key to identifying the cause of your back pain. If symptoms occur or persist, contact a doctor or physical medicine specialist to receive appropriate diagnosis and treatment.

• Improper sitting
• Stress
• Obesity
• Muscle strains

Muscle strains

Lower back pain can be caused by a number of factors, and is often the result of a combination of several causes. While poor posture is one of the most common problems, there are other factors that can contribute to the development of this pain.

Insufficient physical activity

In this day and age, many people spend a large part of their day sitting, especially in offices, which leads to weakening of the back and trunk muscles. Sitting in an incorrect position further exacerbates the problem, because the spine is not properly supported. Exercising several times a week can help strengthen the back muscles and prevent pain.

Increased body weight

Excess weight creates additional strain on the spine, especially in the lower back. The spine has to carry weight that is not ideal for its natural balance, which can cause pain. Excess weight can also cause muscle tension and worsen postural problems.

Stress

Although we usually associate stress with mental health, it can also cause physical symptoms, including back pain. When we are stressed, our muscles tighten, especially in the neck, shoulders, and back. This tension can cause pain that becomes chronic if not recognized and treated.

Ill-fitting footwear

Wearing the wrong footwear, such as high heels, flat shoes, or shoes with poor-quality soles, can change the way we walk, which directly affects our spinal posture. Such problems can cause back pain because the unnatural position of our feet can lead to improper posture, which is transmitted to the spine.

Injuries and improper movements

Lifting heavy objects, sudden movements, or poorly performed physical exertion can cause injuries to the back. This can lead to damage to the discs or ligaments in the spine, which causes pain. For example, improper lifting can cause injury to the intervertebral discs, which can lead to pain that spreads to the legs.

Sciatica and Nerve Problems

Sciatica, which occurs when pressure is placed on the sciatic nerve, can cause pain that radiates down the leg. This problem can be caused by a variety of conditions, such as a herniated disc, a narrowing of the spinal canal (stenosis), or degenerative changes in the discs between the vertebrae. These changes can put pressure on the nerve roots, causing pain in the back and legs.

Spinal stenosis

This condition occurs when the space through which nerves pass in the spine narrows, which can put pressure on the nerves and lead to pain. Spinal stenosis usually occurs with age and can cause lower back pain that can radiate into the legs.
Understanding the cause of your lower back pain is important for proper treatment. If you are experiencing these symptoms, consult a specialist to get an accurate diagnosis and a recommendation for appropriate treatment.

Every patient who visits our office can be sure that a professional examination will determine the exact cause of their lower back pain. Timely medical attention and appropriate therapy are key to effective treatment.

The most effective treatment for back pain includes physical therapy that is tailored to the specifics of each patient. Physical therapy works on the cause of the pain, whether it is muscle tension, spinal degeneration, or disc damage. One of the most modern treatments is DTS spinal decompression, which releases compressed nerves by micronizing the spine, reducing pain and inflammation.

Physical therapy methods include electrotherapy, heat and cold therapy, and spinal mobilization. Once the pain has subsided, kinesitherapy follows, which includes exercises to strengthen the muscles of the back, trunk, and legs.

Therapy is key to preventing re-injury and long-term recovery. For specific problems such as herniated discs or sciatica, treatment is focused on resolving these conditions. Dr. Radoje Čobeljić, a physical medicine specialist with three decades of experience, leads the treatment of patients with spinal problems.