5 Tips for Acute Lower Back Pain

Most of us will suffer from low back pain in our lifetime with 8 out of 10 adults experiencing it at least once. Physio Camille gives us her tips if you find yourself in discomfort from acute low back pain.

Only <1% of episodes of back pain are do to a serious pathology and 5-10% are due to radicular pain which is pain coming from a nerve root which can be due to a disc issue.

Most of us (90-95%), will experience what we call non specific low back pain meaning there are multiple contributing factors including but not limited to musculoskeletal, fatigue and stress.

So what does this mean for you? Perhaps you’ve just finished binge watching your favourite show slumped on your couch; or you’ve worked 5 hours in the garden, making the most of the beautiful weather, when suddenly your back twinges as you stand back up. Sound familiar?

5 tips and some advice that you can follow to get you back on your feet

1. 1. Most back pain will settle significantly within 6 weeks
   2. Anti-inflammatory have been proven more effective than simple analgesics and may help you sleep better. Speak to your pharmacist of treating physician
   3. Unlike common misconception do not fully rest. Keep moving, from a simple walk around the park to gentle yoga like motion and stretches. This will reduce muscle spasm, promote better range of movement and reduce muscle wastage which occur with bed rest
   4. Placing a heat pack on your lower back can help reduce muscle spasm, repeating this  and guarding that often occur with episodes of low back pain. This can also be done through a hot shower/bath.
   5. Exercise and advice from your physiotherapist are effective at managing acute back pain

If you or someone you know is experiencing low back pain, come and see our knowledgeable Physiotherapists for a personalised treatment plan to get you back doing the things you love.

Author:

Camille Rey – Physiotherapist