Low back pain

Low back pain is a common problem. Low back pain is most often caused by strain on bones, muscles and ligaments. It usually gets better after a few weeks of treatment.

Good care begins with physical exam by your doctor.

Simple tests in your doctor’s office may:

Locate the pain.

Rule out a serious problem.

Low back pain can be treated with:

Medicines for pain.

Heating pads.

Exercise or physical therapy.

Reduce your risk of low back pain by:

Maintaining a healthy weight.

Exercising regularly.

Lifting heavy objects carefully.

Ask your doctor about different treatment options for your low back pain.

Tell your doctor if are having:

Weight loss

Weakness in your legs

Loss of feeling in your legs

Other symptoms not related to your back.

Other tests may be done if:

Your pain does not improve

Your pain gets worse.

Your doctor thinks the pain is from a serious medical condition not a strain.

Radiology test such as x-rays, CT scans and MRI’s for low back pain:

Usually do not show anything that would change the first treatment plan.

Often show problems that have nothing to do with low back pain.

Expose you to radiation.

May lead to further unnecessary tests and procedures.