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


• Feveres


• 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.