What Are the Most Common Lower Back Disc Problems?
Did you know that between 1 to 3% of people in the US have low back pain due to problems with a slipped disc? Lower back disc problems are the most common cause of lower back pain and can really impact your life.
If you’re having disc problems in your lower back, it’s important to understand how they occur in the first place. Understanding more about the causes and treatment options will help you heal properly and avoid future injuries so you can get back to the activities you love.
Keep reading this guide to learn everything you need to know!
Overview of Lower Back Disc Problems
Your spinal discs are like rubbery pads that lie between the vertebrae, which are the bones that make up your spinal column. These discs are flat and have a jelly-like substance inside that is encased in a fibrous outer shell.
Your discs can normally handle a lot of pressure and strain without any problem. However, when you twist, turn, or strain your back in a certain way, it can cause the inner part of your disc to swell or bulge in certain spots.
Most of the time, disc problems occur in the lower region of your back, resulting in a slipped or herniated disc. A herniated disc is when the inner part of the disc swells and pushes through the outer shell.
Causes of Disc Problems
Disc problems can be a result of degenerative disc disease. Degenerative disc disease occurs with age when the inner capsule of the discs starts to dry out and lose flexibility.
Being overweight and living an inactive lifestyle can weaken your muscles and put extra stress on the discs in your lower back, causing back pain and disc problems.
Physically demanding jobs can also cause lower back problems. Any type of repetitive lifting, pushing, pulling, or bending to the side can cause your discs to bulge or herniate.
Smoking decreases the oxygen supply to your disks and can cause them to break down more quickly than they would otherwise. Finally, genetics can play a role in lower back issues as some people can inherit a tendency to develop disc problems.
Treatment for Disc Problems
The treatment for back pain from disc problems depends on your pain and disc injury severity.
Typically you’ll start with treatments at home that include limiting any strenuous movements and taking over-the-counter medications like Advil or Tylenol. Your doctor might also prescribe pain medications, neuropathic medications for nerve pain, or muscle relaxers.
Your doctor might also suggest physical therapy to help you decrease the pain in your back and build strength. You’ll also be given exercises to do at home each day.
It’s also a good idea to consider seeing a chiropractor for your lower back disc problems. Chiropractic treatment is safe and non-invasive and involves spinal manipulation around the disc that is bulging or herniated.
You can view this link to learn more about chiropractic adjustments and how they can help you feel better overall.
Treat Your Lower Back Disc Problems Today
Remember, lower back disc problems don’t have to run your life. Now that you understand more about the causes and treatment options, it will be easier to find a treatment plan that works for you.
If you’re ready to learn more about your health, check out our blog for health and fitness articles that will improve your life!
