Lower Back Pain

What is lower back pain?

Lower back pain is a general term for discomfort occurring in the lower pelvic region which may involve any of the organs or tissue located in the region. This includes bones from the spinal column, pelvic internal organs, back muscles, and surrounding nerves, and even the spine. Lower back pain may vary in severity, and could be acute or chronic.

Why do patients experience lower back pain?

The complexity of the anatomy of the back arises as a consequence of its function – providing structural support which enables humans to stand upright and houses many of the body’s internal organs. The back is structured so as to be able to sustain movement while keeping the integrity of the surrounding tissue. In the back runs along the spinal cord, which links the rest of the body – including the limbs and visceral organs, to the brain. Thus the back, especially the lower region contain numerous joints, blood vessels, nerves, and other tissue, which are all subject to wear and tear. Prolonged strain on any of the tissue located at the lower back may lead to lower back pain. Some of the more specific conditions linked to lower back pain include the following:

• Posture or trauma-related muscular strain
• Disc degeneration
• Spinal Arthritis
• Spinal cord injury
• Pinched nerves

What is a pinched nerve?

Pinched nerves describe a condition in which sustained compression from surrounding tissue such as muscles, bones, or ligaments lead to nerve irritation and inflammation. This consequently result to disruption of nerve function, as well as pain.

Why are pinched nerves linked to lower back pain?

Many organs, as well as back muscles in the pelvic region, are innervated by nerves originating from the spinal cord. To reach the respective tissue, the nerves often pass through muscle, joints, ligaments, or blood vessels. When proximate tissue sustain trauma, degenerate, or become tight, the nerves are thus subjected to pressure, resulting to pinched nerves which eventually lead to pain.  Typical pinched nerve cases arise from herniated discs, affecting different nerves passing through the spinal column from the spinal cord.

What are the treatments for lower back pain associated with pinched nerves?

In order to address lower back pain due to pinched nerves, treatment strategies usually include measures which decrease nerve compression alongside pain medication. Different procedures are prescribed on a case-to-case basis depending on several factors such as the location of the pinched nerve, the type of tissue responsible for the compression (e.g. spinal discs vs. muscles), and the severity of the lower back pain. For proper evaluation and diagnosis, patients are advised to always consult a licensed physician before deciding to go through any particular treatment. Prescribed treatments for pinched nerve-related lower back pain may involve one or more of the following:

• Oral pain relievers
• Anti-inflammatory medicine
• Light stretches and physical therapy
• Injectible pain medication
• Nerve blocks
• Corrective surgery

Where can I get treatment for my lower back pain?

Have you been experiencing lower back pain which may be related to pinched nerves? Pain management Los Angeles specialist Dr. Kevin Li, MD, may be able to provide the necessary care. Dr. Li’s extensive experience in dealing with patients suffering from back pain and pinched nerves guarantee you not only an accurate diagnosis, but also the most capable hands for conducting pinched nerve treatment. His clinic is one call away, just dial (626) 538 – 8950 for your appointment, and free your back from pain!