Acute Low Back Pain

Most people will experience low back pain sometime in their lives. Many doctors say that this will be around 80% of the population.

Defining Acute Low–back Pain
Acute low-back pain is generalized pain located in the low back region, lasting no longer than 6 weeks.

If this problem is accompanied by radiating pain down one or both legs, it is a possible sign of something more serious. In that case, it is best to see a qualified medical doctor for a diagnosis.

This condition is most often brought on by an activity. Get a person with acute low back pain talking, and you are likely to find out that either:

• They have a history of low back pain, or
• They engaged in some form of strenuous activity just prior to the onset of pain.

Most symptoms of acute low-back pain will resolve within 6 weeks. Treatment goals are focused on:

• relieving pain and any other symptoms
• allowing the healing process.

In the medical world, treatment must be initiated by a doctor or therapist. Treatment modalities with good results for acute low-back pain include:

• ice
• home exercise program
• patient education on such topics as:
• ergonomics, lifting and other activities

During the healing process, acute low-back pain patients are encouraged to reduce activity but not to eliminate it. Too much bed rest slows healing and increases atrophy (muscle wasting). Patients are also encouraged to be in positions that feel comfortable as much as possible. Although restful, sitting can be quite stressful on the low back.

Alternative therapies
Alternative therapies that may provide relief include:

• Chiropractic
• Acupuncture
• Massage therapy
• Feldenkrais
• Gentle yoga
• Easy Pilates (sometimes called pre-Pilates, or preparation for Pilates)