It’s no secret that lower back pain is one of the most common medical issues in the world. In fact, according to the American Chiropractic Association, around 31 million Americans experience this condition at any given time. And if you’re one of them, you know that it can be incredibly frustrating and debilitating.

While there are many things you can do to manage your health issues, it’s essential to be aware of when it’s getting worse so you can take steps to address the issue. Here are four signs your lower back pain is getting worse.

Nonspecific lower back trauma

A number of different things can cause back discomfort, but most of the time, the pain is not related to any disease or disorder. Although many people suffer from nonspecific lumbar issues, seeking medical attention is vital if you suspect you may have a severe back problem. Generally, nonspecific back pain is caused by a muscle strain or sprain. However, the discomfort can also be caused by a pinched or irritated nerve.

Nonspecific lower back issues are not related to a specific disease and is usually the result of an underlying disease process. Inflammation of the back nerve roots can cause trauma, which is referred to as radiculopathy. Symptoms of radiculopathy include pain, numbness, and weakness. Despite its common nature, nonspecific low back pain is not dangerous. Often, it can be treated conservatively by addressing the underlying cause and undergoing treatment with a physical therapist or physiotherapist.

The first step in treatment is identifying the cause. The pain may originate from the lower back or the lumbar region. This region is made up of five vertebrae and supports the upper body’s weight. Therefore, it is constantly under pressure.

Radiating pain down the legs

Radiating pain (RP) is a type of discomfort that originates in one part of the body and spreads to an entire area. It can be caused by various conditions, including a herniated disc. However, it can also indicate a more serious underlying condition. RP is caused by pain signals that are sent by the nerves surrounding the damaged area. These signals are transmitted to the brain, which is recognized as pain.

There are several reasons why trauma may radiate from the low back to the legs. Some of these causes include spinal stenosis, bone spurs, and sciatica. Spinal stenosis is a condition in which the spinal column narrows and puts pressure on nerves in the back. Bone spurs, often caused by trauma or degeneration over time, can also cause pain radiating down the legs.

RP down the legs is a common symptom of sciatica. The pain is caused by irritation of the sciatic nerve, which originates in the lower back. This pain can be intermittent or constant and can be worsened by certain positions. The symptoms may be related to neuropathy if the pain is accompanied by numbness or weakness.

Symptoms of a herniated lumbar disc

If you are suffering from low back pain, your doctor may prescribe anti-inflammatory and pain medications. Physical therapy can also be helpful. A physical therapist can teach you how to do stretches and other exercises that will help you recover from your herniated disc.

Muscle fatigue and weakness can also be signs of a herniated disc. These symptoms are caused by the compression of nerves in the affected area. This can make it difficult to move or carry objects. Performing repetitive movements and carrying heavy loads can increase the risk of developing a herniated disc.

X-rays and physical exams are essential for confirming a herniated lumbar disk. MRI images can be highly detailed, showing where the herniated disc is and what nerves it’s pressing on. Electromyogram (EMG) tests are also helpful for determining the exact location of the herniated disc.

Symptoms of sciatica

Sciatica is a type of lower back trauma caused by an injury to the sciatic nerve. For example, it can be caused by a herniated disc or a bone spur. When this nerve is irritated, sciatica symptoms can range from mild to severe and can even include leg weakness. The pain usually improves with rest but can continue for several months before going away ultimately.

Nonsurgical treatment for sciatica may include using cold and hot packs to reduce the pain, consulting a physical therapist, or even joining stretch classes. Physical therapy may also help. In severe cases, spinal decompression surgery may be necessary. If nonsurgical treatment is not helpful, you may want to consult a pain specialist or neurologist for more specialized treatment.

Imaging tests may also be performed to determine the source of the trauma. For example, imaging tests may help the doctor determine if there’s a blockage in the sciatic nerve. These tests can also show if bone spurs are present or whether the spinal canal is narrowed.

Conclusion

Low back pain is a common problem that a variety of conditions can cause. When the pain radiates down the legs, it may be a sign of a more serious condition. Pain that is accompanied by numbness or weakness may indicate neuropathy. Imaging tests, such as MRI, can help to confirm the diagnosis. Treatment for low back pain depends on the underlying cause but may include medications, physical therapy, and surgery.

If you suffer from lower back pain, there are several things you can do to find relief. You can talk to your doctor about medications that can help, including anti-inflammatories and pain relievers. You may also benefit from physical therapy. A physical therapist can teach you exercises and stretches that may help relieve your pain. You may need surgery to correct the problem if your trauma is severe.