Low back pain

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Low Back Pain (LBP), also known as lumbago, is a prevalent health issue affecting the muscles, nerves, and bones of the back. This condition can manifest in various ways, from a dull, continuous ache to a sudden, sharp sensation.

Classification[edit | edit source]

LBP is typically categorized based on the duration and underlying cause of the pain.

By Duration[edit | edit source]

  • Acute LBP: This type lasts less than six weeks. It is often due to strain or minor injury.
  • Sub-chronic LBP: This type persists for six to twelve weeks. It can be a continuation of acute LBP or a new issue.
  • Chronic LBP: This type lasts more than twelve weeks and may be due to ongoing conditions such as arthritis, spinal stenosis, or degenerative disc disease.

By Cause[edit | edit source]

  • Mechanical LBP: This type is the most common and is due to physical problems with the structures of the lower back, including the spine, intervertebral discs, or supporting muscles and ligaments.
  • Non-Mechanical LBP: This type is less common and can be caused by conditions such as kidney stones, endometriosis, or fibromyalgia.
  • Referred Pain: This type originates in a different part of the body but is felt in the lower back.

Prognosis[edit | edit source]

Most individuals with LBP see improvement in their symptoms within a few weeks of onset. Between 40-90% of patients recover within six weeks. However, recurrence is common, and the condition can become chronic in some cases.

Treatment[edit | edit source]

Treatment for LBP often includes a combination of self-care measures, physical therapy, medication, and in some cases, surgery. Patient education is also vital, as understanding the cause and mechanisms of LBP can help manage the condition.

References[edit | edit source]

  • Mehling, W. E., Gopisetty, V., Bartmess, E., Acree, M., Pressman, A., Goldberg, H., ... & Avins, A. L. (2012). The prognosis of acute low back pain in primary care in the United States: a 2-year prospective cohort study. Spine, 37(8), 678-684.
  • Delitto, A., George, S. Z., Van Dillen, L. R., Whitman, J. M., Sowa, G., Shekelle, P., ... & Godges, J. J. (2012). Low back pain. Journal of Orthopaedic & Sports Physical Therapy, 42(4), A1-A57.
Low back pain Resources
Wikipedia
WikiMD
Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Search WikiMD

Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Let Food Be Thy Medicine
Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates

Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD