Low Back Pain

What causes Low Back Pain?
Pain can come from any part of the back, and it is not usually possible to isolate its precise source. Most pain is believed to come from excessive physical stress acting on the normal spine or normal physical forces acting on an abnormal spine. Most episodes of acute back pain settle within three weeks.

What will help?

Activity: The best treatment seems to be to avoid bed rest, avoid mobilising exercises and continue your normal activities as much as you can.

Drugs: Painkillers can help. Paracetamol and Ibuprofen can be bought from your pharmacist. Ibuprofen (e.g. Brufen, Nurofen) and aspirin belong to the class of drugs known as anti-inflammatories. They can cause irritation of the stomach and ulcers. Only take them after food [never on an empty stomach] and stop them immediately if they cause upper abdominal pain. A small percentage of asthmatics can have an asthma attack with anti-inflammatories so caution is required.

Bed Rest: May be unavoidable if pain is severe, resting in bed for up to two days may help.

Physiotherapy or Osteopathy: If this is available it may help if recovery is slow.

Back Posture and Care: Can help avoid further back problems.