Lower left back pain

Low Back pain is a pain in the lower back area that can relate to problems with the lumbar

region of the spine, the discs between the vertebrae, the ligaments around the spine and discs,

the spinal cord and nerves, muscles of the low back, internal organs of the pelvis and abdomen,

or the skin covering the lumbar area.

Symptoms Of Lower Back Pain include a dull or aching pain often punctuated by periods of

rapid increase in intensity. The pain can travel down the hip and into the leg. Some will note a

numb of cold sensation in the leg or foot while others describe a hot-poker type sensation.

The reality is that lower back pain is often multifactorial in cause.

Causes And Treatment Options

A variety of problems can result in lower left back pain. Treatment of low back pain is optimally directed

toward a diagnosed or suspected specific cause. Some cases are common strains and overuse type

injuries while others are serious and potentially life threatening. It is a good idea to visit your doctor who can

fully examine you and evaluate for a potentially more serious cause.

Lower Left Back Pain

Lower Back StrainA group of muscles and ligaments run the length of the spine and provide support and movement of the spinal column. Stretching too far or overdoing a physical activity can strain these tissues. Small tears can even occur in the tissue causing further pain. Back strain can also occur as a consequence of falling, excessive bending or twisting or lifting heavy objects. Obesity and lack of core body strength contribute to low back strain.

Many describe the pain of a low back strain as stiffness and soreness that worsens with movement, coughing, laughing and sneezing. It can affect one ore both sides of the back.

Treatment of a low back strain starts by applying ice for 20 minutes several times a day. OTC anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen, naproxen and Tylenol can provide relief of pain. Follow the package instructions and take these medications with food. Visiting a physical therapist can often help when a back strain is not improving as expected. Your doctor can recommend a series of visits with a physical therapist to help you recover.

Pregnancy

Low back pain, particularly on the left side, is common in pregnancy and occurs for several reasons. As the baby grows in

size, the uterus can compress pain sensi- tive structures including nerves and Ureters. It is not uncommon for pregnant

patients to complain of pain traveling down the buttock and leg due to compression of the sciatic nerve.

To minimize the effects of low back during pregnancy, follow these helpful tips.

Work to maintain good posture.

Change positions frequently and stand with weight balanced over the feet as opposed to one leg.

Avoid wearing shoes with anything but a minimal heel.

Adopt a side lying position whenever in bed or resting.

Add a pillow between the knees to help ensure proper spine alignment to minimize strain on the lower back.

Kidney StonesKidney Infection

Kidney infections can cause serious low back pain on

one or both sides. The infection generally starts in the

bladder and travels up to the kidneys creating

swelling, inflammation and pain.

Kidney infections require a visit to a doctor for

antibiotic treatment.

Kidney stones can cause rapid onset of excruci- ating

left- or rightsided pain. The pain can radiate around

the flank into the lower abdomen and down to the

groin.

A sensation of urgency to urinate is common for

those suffer- ing from a kidney stone. Blood may

appear in the urine as a consequence of the stone

moving in the urinary tract passageways.

Other causesSpinal Stenosis

This condition results when the spinal canal begins to

narrow and encroach on the spinal cord. This process

occurs in older individuals and is a result of arthritis,

disc herniation and bone spur formation.

Common symptoms include back pain, numbness,

weakness or loss of strength in one or both legs.

A variety of other medical conditions commonly cause

lower back pain on the left side and seeing your doctor

is the best way to sort out the cause.

Examples include: ovarian cysts and fibroid tumors,

gastrointestinal problems

Prevention

Steps to lower the risk of developing low back pain consist of following:

Exercise — regular exercise helps build strength as well as keeping your body weight down.

Smoking — a significantly higher percentage of smokers have back pain incidences compared to non-smokers

of the same age, height and weight.

Body weight — the fatter you are the greater your risk of developing back pain.

Posture when standing — make sure you have a neutral pelvic position. Stand upright, head facing forward,

back straight, and balance your weight evenly on both feet — keep your legs straight.

Posture when sitting — A good seat should have good back support, arm rests and a swivel base (for

working).

Moving things — remember that it is better for your back to push things across the floor, rather than pulling

them.

Shoes — flat shoes place less of a strain on the back.

Driving — it is important to have proper support for your back. Make sure the wing mirrors are properly

positioned so you do not need to twist.

Your bed — you should have a mattress that keeps you spine straight, while at the same time sup- porting the

weight of your shoulders and buttocks. Use a pillow, but not one that forces your neck into a steep angle.