Lower back pain

What is lower back pain?

Lower back pain can be considered a public health issue nowadays, mainly due to the increasing number of medical consultations and work absences related to this condition. Over the past 20 years, the global incidence of lower back pain has increased by 40%, and in Brazil specifically, cases have risen by 60% during the same period.

Symptoms

Usually, the first episode of lower back pain may be associated with intense pain, either without an apparent cause or following a trauma or momentary overload. However, over time, the pain improves in most people without the need for medication or complete rest.

At this point, a healthcare professional — doctor or physical therapist — should be consulted as soon as possible for a detailed clinical evaluation. The patient will also receive specific guidance for their case, and all doubts regarding the episode can be clarified.

It is important to know that lower back pain has various causes, and it is possible to prevent it from worsening with the help of a multidisciplinary healthcare team (doctors, physical therapists, psychologists, nutritionists, etc.). Warning signs include loss of strength or changes in sensation in the legs and feet, a history of cancer, and sudden changes in bowel or bladder control.

Treatment

Scientific studies have shown that most cases of lower back pain can be treated without surgery, through specific exercises prescribed by a physical therapist and changes in lifestyle and habits.

Current literature also shows that understanding the symptoms has a positive effect on rehabilitation. Remember that within 4 weeks, 80% of patients who experienced intense pain return to work normally, and lower back pain has an excellent prognosis for improvement.

A better understanding of the mechanisms that triggered the symptoms and making small changes in daily routines play an important role in patient recovery, helping to prevent new episodes of pain and avoiding the progression of ongoing cases into chronic conditions.

Prevention

Some examples of changes that individuals can make themselves include:

• staying active and continuing with daily activities as normally as possible
• trying to manage anxiety and stress related to the symptoms
• following the healthcare team’s guidance regarding the intensity and frequency of exercises, as well as medication (if prescribed by a doctor)
• always striving to improve quality of life through good nutrition and sleep quality

By Einstein Editorial Board