Lower back pain is one of the most common musculoskeletal complaints. In fact, it affects up to 80% of people at some point in their life. If you are familiar with this issue, you may wonder if you should simply push through it or if you should slow down until the pain subsides. In this blog post, you will find practical guidance to help you manage the situation.
Avoid Anything That Worsens the Pain
It is usually a bad idea to simply “push through” lower back pain, forging ahead with your normal activities and workout routine even if they worsen your condition.
Indeed, you should be careful to avoid anything that worsens your discomfort. For example, it would be best to abstain from things like heavy lifting, intense exercise, and abrupt twisting or bending motions. Listen to your body and do not force yourself into positions or actions that exacerbate the issue. Taking these precautions can help prevent further injury and promote a quicker recovery.
Focus on Gentle Activities
While you should steer clear of anything that worsens your pain, staying completely inactive is not always the best approach. Gentle activities such as walking, light stretching, water activities, and low-impact exercises can keep your muscles engaged and support healing. You may find that slow, controlled movements help alleviate stiffness and improve circulation in your lower back. Always move within your comfort zone and prioritize activities that do not cause additional discomfort. By maintaining some level of mild activity, you can reduce the risk of your muscles becoming weak or tight, which might contribute to ongoing pain.
When to See a Doctor
Although many cases of lower back pain resolve with self-care and time, there are situations where you should seek medical advice. See a doctor if:
- Your pain persists for more than a few weeks.
- The pain is severe.
- Your discomfort is accompanied by symptoms such as numbness, tingling, weakness in your legs, or loss of bladder or bowel control.
- You were recently in an accident or suffered another type of injury.
If you have any doubts about whether you should see a doctor, it is better to err on the side of caution and get a professional opinion if you are unsure about the cause or severity of your pain. Often, a qualified specialist can provide gentle and minimally invasive pain management techniques that promote healing.
Lower back pain is terrible! Instead of toughing it out, be gentle with your body so it has the opportunity to heal.
Meet the Practice
Dr. Paul Tortland, DO, is board-certified in Regenerative Medicine and Sports Medicine. In our Glastonbury office, he and Dr. Tad DeWald offer a range of treatments that are designed to relieve pain and support the body’s natural healing processes. If you are struggling with lower back pain, our team can evaluate your condition and advise you on your next steps. Contact us at 860-430-2821.