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Orthopedics

Low Back Pain

Low back pain refers to the sensation of pain, tension, or stiffness felt in the region from the lower edge of the rib cage to the lower part of the buttocks. In medical literature, it is also referred to as "lumbago."

What is Low Back Pain?

The lumbar region has a complex structure consisting of five lumbar vertebrae (L1-L5) that carry the body's center of gravity, the discs between these vertebrae, ligaments, and strong muscle groups. The spine not only carries the weight of the upper body but also protects the spinal cord.

The intervertebral discs between the vertebrae provide flexibility to the lower back and act as shock absorbers. Low back pain can generally occur as a result of a sudden strain (acute) or can develop due to long-term poor habits (chronic).

Common Symptoms

Lumbar Pain
Can be felt as a sharp, stabbing sensation or a dull ache.
Sciatic Pain
Pain radiating to the buttocks and legs.
Movement-Related Pain
Pain that worsens with activity and improves with rest.
Neurological Symptoms
Numbness, tingling, or weakness in the legs.
Functional Limitation
Difficulty bending forward, straightening up, or standing for prolonged periods.

Diagnosis Methods

Physical Examination
Range of motion, reflexes, and muscle strength are tested.
X-Ray
Detection of fractures, slippage, or degenerative changes in bone structure.
MRI
Detailed visualization of soft tissues, discs (herniations), and nerve roots.
CT
More detailed examination of bone.
EMG (Electromyography)
Measurement of nerve conduction and muscle response to neural signals.

Causes

Muscle and Ligament Strains
Overstretching of lumbar muscles and ligaments from heavy lifting or sudden movements.
Lumbar Disc Herniation
Disruption of the integrity of the discs between the vertebrae, leading to pressure on the nerves.
Osteoarthritis (Calcification)
Age-related wear and degeneration of spinal joints.
Spinal Stenosis
Narrowing of the spinal canal causing nerve compression.
Postural Disorders
Incorrect sitting positions, obesity, and sedentary lifestyle.
Systemic Diseases
Rheumatic diseases, infections, or rarely tumors.

Treatments

Medication
NSAIDs (reduce pain and inflammation), muscle relaxants (relieve spasm), neuropathic agents (for nerve pain).
Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation
Hot/cold applications, electrotherapy (TENS), manual therapy, clinical Pilates, and core strengthening exercises.
Interventional Methods
Epidural steroid injections (reduce nerve compression and edema), trigger point injections.
Surgical Intervention
Surgery is considered for cases unresponsive to conservative treatment with significant nerve compression or paralysis risk.

Prevention

Rest and Activity Modification
Short-term rest for the first few days, followed by light walking to maintain mobility.
Brace Use
Used only briefly during the acute phase. Prolonged use may weaken muscles.
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