Before entering fully into the meaning of the term low back pain that concerns us now, we are going to proceed to know its etymological origin. In this case, we have to emphasize that it is a neologism that is the result of the sum of two lexical components of different origins:
-The noun "lumbus", which derives from Latin and means "lower back."
-The Greek element «-algia», which can be translated as «pain».
Low back pain is pain that is located in the lumbar area : that is, in the lower back . This discomfort, therefore, is registered between the buttocks and the waist.
Most human beings experience, at some point in their lives, lower back pain of greater or lesser intensity. The ailment sometimes reaches the lower extremities.
The origin of low back pain can be found in the vertebrae , intervertebral discs , muscles , ligaments or nerves , for example. The problem, in turn, can be caused by poor body posture , excess weight , exaggerated stretching or an impact , among other reasons. Even a gastrointestinal disorder , cancer or infection can cause low back pain.
Among the most common symptoms of low back pain are pain in the leg and buttock as well as in the lower back. However, we cannot ignore that, in the same way, those who have it may suffer tingling, weakness and even burning in the leg or foot. And that's without forgetting the numbness of those.
According to its duration, low back pain is classified as chronic , subacute or acute . In the first case it lasts for more than three months; in the second, between six weeks and three months; and in the third, less than six weeks.
Likewise, we cannot ignore that there are two other types of low back pain:
-Specific low back pain, which is the cause of which is known. It is considered that this represents approximately 20% of the cases that occur.
-Nonspecific low back pain, which is what is called that because it is not known what are the causes that cause it and the reasons for the pain that it entails.
The pain may come on suddenly when lifting a weight or shortly after the effort has been made. If it is chronic low back pain, the evolution is usually slow but sustained over the days.
The way to prevent low back pain is, above all, by avoiding a sedentary lifestyle. That is, you have to commit to exercising frequently. However, it is also necessary to maintain proper body posture both when walking and when sitting.
Other tips are also recommended such as not making sudden movements, maintaining a healthy weight and maintaining good body postures.
When low back pain occurs, treatment may include the provision of muscle relaxants and anti-inflammatories , the development of controlled exercises and the practice of yoga . In any case, when faced with lower back pain or any other type, it is necessary to consult a doctor so that the professional can indicate the steps to follow.