Back and lower back pain - a harbinger of illness or a common occurrence? Why lower back hurts: five main reasons Back hurts in different places

The condition of the spine affects any organ or system of the body, since it is the support for the entire human body. If your back hurts in the middle of the spine, or you feel some kind of discomfort in this area, this should alert you. You should undergo an examination, identify the causes of pain and eliminate them as quickly as possible. A lot of different factors can negatively affect the condition of the spine (injuries, excessive stress, poor nutrition). It is necessary to consult a specialist in time and establish a diagnosis.

Types of pain. Mechanical disturbances

First, you need to determine what kind of back pain is bothering you. Indeed, the exact identification of the cause depends on the type of painful sensations. So, the pain can be sharp and sharp, throbbing, dull or pulling. The latter type can occur in the middle of the back due to sudden physical overload. It belongs to the category of mechanical damage. There is a pulling pain after lifting heavy loads. It is because of this that the spine in the middle of the back hurts during pregnancy. It is difficult for a woman to carry a child, and therefore pulling pains appear in the back from the load. After childbirth, the baby is in the arms for a long time, this also affects the health of the spine.

Any severity provokes the onset of pain in the middle of the spine, most often with scoliosis. With this pathology, the vertebrae are displaced, the reason for this is an incorrect fit. Scoliosis is diagnosed at an appointment by a therapist, neurologist or surgeon. When lifting weights, the vertebrae are easily removed from their normal state, which causes pain. Heavy loads lead to osteochondrosis. This disease is practically not cured, it develops into a chronic form.

All people who lead a sedentary lifestyle suffer in one way or another from pain in the spine in the middle of the back or in the lower back. With the help of gymnastics, painful conditions can be avoided. Get up from the computer more often and stretch your stagnant spine. This will help get rid of stiffness and discomfort, and feel lightness in the muscles of the back.

Non-mechanical violations

Not always the cause of joint displacement is any mechanical stress, disturbance, injury. Internal organs have a significant impact on back health. If the spine in the middle of your back hurts, it may indicate some kind of ailment inside your body. The causes of pain should be identified by competent, highly qualified doctors. A timely diagnosis will allow you to get rid of the disease without any complications.

Also, pain, spasms in the muscles of the back can appear with some kind of stress, excitement, nervous tension. Acute pain arising in this case appears as a result of a sharp muscle contraction, spasms occur in the middle of the back. Frequent stressful situations with frequent spasms can lead to the appearance of a stoop, as a result - an incorrect distribution of body weight along the spine. The mechanical effect on the spine decreases or increases, pain appears.

Sharpness of pain

If the spine in the middle of the back hurts after childbirth, listen to the nature of the pain. Cutting, sharp, sharp, which constrains the movements of the legs, arms, the whole body, provokes nerve endings? If the pain appeared unexpectedly, with a sharp tilt, lifting (maybe they took a child in their arms), most likely, a pinched nerve occurred between the vertebrae. Usually, the nature of such pain is short-term, after being in a calm state (preferably lying on a flat surface) it goes away. If the discomfort does not disappear for a long time, it is better to seek medical help. Persistent pain in the middle of the spine can be a sign of a medical condition that needs to be investigated. It may be an intervertebral hernia. Also, an infarction state can manifest itself in heart disease. Persistent pain in the middle of the spine is a serious symptom with which you must definitely go to a medical institution and undergo an examination.

Lumbodynia

Pain that is pulsating in nature that does not go away for a long time is lumbodynia, it has the following symptoms:

  • manifests itself after lifting weights;
  • severe pain when walking;
  • manifestation of pain with sudden movement;
  • lumbago in the spine.

When the back hurts in the middle of the spine, an x-ray helps to identify the source of the pain. With lumbodynia in the middle of the back, there is a throbbing, dull pain between the discs, it can occur after hypothermia of the body. If treatment is not started on time, pain can extend over the entire spine. After suffering lumbodynia, osteochondrosis often occurs with exertion. And he, as you know, is the most common cause of back pain.

Diseases

If the spine in the middle of the back hurts when pressed, this may be a manifestation of inflammatory processes in the muscles, for example, myositis. Discomfort can occur both on the right and on the left, with pressure on the muscles or any movement.

With arthritis, which affects people of all ages, there is pain in the middle of the back, which makes it impossible to straighten the shoulders. The body gradually bends, and this leads to disruption of the work of all internal organs. There are both mild and severe forms of arthritis, and they all require treatment.

Osteochondrosis of the thoracic spine gives an impetus to the development of degenerative processes, which is the cause of growths, destruction of the vertebrae. If sudden painful sensations appear, this indicates that a nerve fiber is pinched.

With a disease of internal organs

The condition of the spine is greatly influenced by problems with internal organs (heart, kidneys). A sick heart always sends impulses to the shoulders, upper limbs. If the pain spreads to the chest, it may be a symptom of a heart attack.

With kidney disease (inflammatory process), the body temperature rises, pains in the back occur, and parts of the body take on the edematous condition. Acute renal dysfunction is accompanied by a very high fever.

In the middle of the back, pain also occurs with diseases of the gallbladder or gastrointestinal tract. If your back hurts to the left of the spine, in the middle, it may indicate a stomach ulcer. Pain in the upper abdomen, on the right, fading and increasing, while accompanied by vomiting, speak of cholelithiasis.

Back pain in the middle can even be due to an infection in the body. This kind of pain is rare, but it still needs to be mentioned. The blood flow can introduce an infection between the shoulder blades, which begins to cause pain of varying degrees. In this case, an increased temperature will certainly be present.

The spine in the middle of the back hurts. Treatment

If back pain appears, it is imperative to identify the causes of its occurrence. To do this, it is necessary to undergo examinations that the doctor will prescribe. These include:

  • X-ray of the lumbar as well as the thoracic spine;
  • Ultrasound of the OBP;
  • MRI or CT of the central part of the spine;
  • general analysis of urine and blood.

The results will help doctors make the correct diagnosis and prescribe the necessary treatment on time. Therapies can be different:

  • medicinal;
  • non-drug;
  • reflexology;
  • acupuncture;
  • manual therapy;
  • hardware and manual massages;
  • drawing method.

Massage is one of the best ways to deal with pain in the middle back. Those who lead a passive lifestyle, spend a lot of time behind the wheel, experience physical exertion, and very often complain of back pain. Massage helps to relieve painful, unpleasant sensations and even gives pleasure. Therapeutic massage can be performed both in clinics and at home. Of course, it is better if it is performed by a knowledgeable massage therapist with experience.

Temporary spinal pain can help relieve various ointments and poultices. Some can only be used on the recommendation of a doctor, while others are available over the counter and over the counter. It is best to know the cause of your condition and adhere to the recommendations of doctors. A hot bath or a contrast shower can also help reduce pain.

Special bandages, corsets do not carry a therapeutic function, but only help relieve pain symptoms and alleviate suffering. If it is not possible to immediately consult a doctor, of course, wearing a corset will help you at first. But if you wear it constantly, the disease threatens to develop into a chronic stage.

The back hurts in the middle of the spine. First aid

When do you need immediate help if your back hurts?

  • Persistent back pain is present in children under 50 years of age.
  • After injury, overexertion or fall.
  • With a constantly increasing pain syndrome.
  • With back pain and with this increase in temperature.
  • If the pain increases constantly with a change in body position.

If the spine in the middle of the back hurts, the doctor will tell you what to do. Only a few turn for help, believing that everything will pass by itself. It is not worth starting your illnesses, it is better to apply on time. There are more and more cases where medical intervention is very important. It helps to heal the disease in the early stages and does not develop into a chronic form.

Prophylaxis

What should be done if the back in the middle of the spine often hurts? What preventive measures will help prevent the painful condition?

  • If you avoid heavy and frequent stress on the spine, the risk of pain will be significantly reduced.
  • Always choose a comfortable position, both lying and sitting.
  • To maintain a healthy spine, you need to do gymnastics, swimming, sports.
  • Go up and down the stairs more often. Do not use the elevator.
  • Regularly diagnose not only the spine, but also the condition of the whole organism.
  • Morning exercises are useful at any age. It strengthens the ligaments, eliminates possible damage.
  • Try preventive massage. In this case, you can use aromatic oils and creams.

What is back pain?

Lower back pain is probably familiar to almost every modern person. A great variety of reasons can affect the ability to work. Among them - lumbago, sciatica, osteochondrosis and other pathological changes in the lumbosacral spine. Do not take this inattentively, because lower back pain can not only reach incredible strength, making a person's life unbearable, but also turn out to be a symptom of the most dangerous diseases.

Lower back pain can be varied: acute or dull, aching or burning, local (manifested in one place) or spreading to the entire back. Discomfort also manifests itself in different ways: sometimes sharply, suddenly, and sometimes gradually, increasing every day.

The response to pain and the ability to endure it depends on many factors: age, mental characteristics, accompanying symptoms, and more. But in any case, the disease cannot be left to chance. Timely treatment started will help to avoid dangerous consequences.

To diagnose the cause of back pain, an examination of the spine and some additional procedures are required: X-ray examination, computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging.

Attacks of pain in the lumbosacral region occur during life in about 80% of modern residents of European countries. Acute or chronic back pain is a consequence of a variety of neurological, degenerative-dystrophic diseases in women and men. In some cases, back pain is a consequence of diseases of the internal organs, and mental disorders.

Causes of back pain

The problem of chronic low back pain is rampant. The average age of the sick is rapidly declining, at present it is 35-45 years. Even cases of illness in children and adolescents are being recorded.

A prerequisite for the development of pain in the lower back is the sedentary lifestyle of a modern person, leading to a decrease in the stability of the lower back, the most vulnerable part of the skeleton. Low back pain is associated with many diseases, they have become a common reason for referring to a neurologist, urologist, surgeon, gastroenterologist and gynecologist. Further worsening of the problem is predicted. The next generation does not have a healthy lifestyle.

They arise during the period of gynecological diseases or are a consequence of the peculiarities of female physiology:

    Gynecological diseases. Inflammation of the appendages - adnexitis, accompanied by pain in the lower abdomen, sometimes the pain radiates to the lower back (pain is one- and two-sided), also manifests itself as symptoms from the intimate sphere (inability to get pregnant, long-term smearing discharge before and after menstruation, pain intensifies during intercourse);

    Pregnancy. The usual localization of pain in the groin, in the lower back is reflected for the following reasons:

    • an increase in the load on the spine from the growing fetus, usually develops by the fifth month of pregnancy, the discomfort disappears after childbirth;

      the threat of premature birth, contractions radiating back pain before 22-37 weeks of pregnancy (the norm is 40 weeks), accompanied by unusual discharge, considered dangerous: bloody - a sign of placental exfoliation, liquid and transparent - a sign of a ruptured placenta.

    Climax. The usual localization of pain in the head, chest, pain can change localization, including under the influence of:

    • an unstable level of estrogen in the blood, as a result - circulatory disorders of the pelvic organs develop;

    Pain is a consequence of increased suspiciousness, more common in women. An in-depth, comprehensive examination does not reveal pathology. The problem can occur intermittently or continuously. It is treated with psychological correction. Such pains can arise out of influence.

Lower back pain in men

Periodic pain occurs due to the peculiarities of the professional activity of men, including if the pain:

    do not correspond to the physiological status of a man's body;

    associated with professional risks (work in the cold, draft).

Also, periodic pain in male diseases is detected, as an exception for:

    prostatitis - pain in the anus is characteristic, pain in the lower back is rare, against the background of general intoxication of the body, it is combined with pain in other parts of the bone tissue, hyperthermia, weakness, weakness,.

Back pain in both men and women


They arise in connection with acute diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, surgical complications, kidney diseases, metabolic disorders, diseases of an infectious nature and neoplasms (benign, malignant).

    Appendicitis. The characteristic pain is localized in the right iliac region, sometimes it can radiate to the lower back, more often to the right side of the body. There is vague pain in the lumbar region.

    Pathology of the small intestine. They are accompanied by symptoms characteristic of a gastrointestinal tract disorder. The pain radiates to the lower back due to irritation of the fibers of the lumbar nerves.

    Cholecystitis. Pains resemble signs of appendicitis. Usually localized on the right side in the iliac region or in the navel. Sometimes it is given to the lower back when the fibers of the spinal nerves are involved in the pathogenesis.

    Pancreatitis Characterized by girdle pain around the body, in the waist area, reflected in the lumbar region. It is combined with symptoms characteristic of pancreatitis - defecation disorders, plaque on the tongue. If the cause of the pain is pancreatitis, the region of the spinal column does not respond to the application of force when felt.

    Adhesions after surgery. They occur after laparotomy or abdominal operations on the abdominal organs, sometimes congenital adhesions are diagnosed. The pain is localized in different parts of the abdominal wall, radiating to the lower back.

    Kidney disease. Lower back pain is combined with uremic symptoms, headache, increased diastolic (lower) arterial threshold, edema. Typical changes are found in laboratory studies of urine, instrumental studies - ultrasound, MRI;

    Obesity of the fourth degree. This is the extreme increase in fat mass in humans. Body mass index of the fourth degree (up to 25 years) = 40, the second group (after 25) = 41. It is defined as the ratio of mass (kg) to twice the height (m). The reasons for the load on the lower back are clear without explanation.

    Infections with involvement in the pathogenesis of bone tissue, for example, extrapulmonary (bone) tuberculosis. It is manifested by bone pain. The localization of back pain is due to the fact that this is the most massive part of the spinal column, and it is subject to maximum stress. The symptoms are associated with a chronic infection clinic. Reveal slight hyperthermia, fatigue, headache, symptoms of damage to the nervous system, laboratory reveals a tubercle bacillus.

    Myositis is muscle inflammation. The muscles of the lumbar zone carry a great load, therefore, inflammation of the lumbar zone is common. The disease develops as a result of hypothermia, penetration of viral pathogens (herpes Zoster), bacterial infections (staphylococci, streptococci, other pyogenic bacteria) in the tissue of this zone. It is manifested by an increase in body temperature, severe pain that develops suddenly, after local or general hypothermia. The chronic stage of the disease is manifested by aching pains, sometimes with the involvement of skin tissues and subcutaneous tissue (dermatomyositis). Diagnostics is carried out on the basis of a clinical examination of the patient, examination, palpation and laboratory methods.

    Overgrowth of benign and malignant tumors along the nerve fibers that innervate the lower back. Symptoms are varied, corresponding to the stage of the disease and the localization of the pathology.

Persistent and recurrent lower back pain


There are various classifications of pain, including depending on the duration.

    Recurrent pain is usually associated with physical exertion, physiological characteristics of the human body, or acute diseases of internal organs.

    Constant, acute, chronic pain caused by irreversible pathological processes in the body in diseases of the musculoskeletal system of the human skeleton and lesions of the deep vessels of the legs.

Recurrent back pain- so they are called because they disappear after recovery and elimination of the focus of pain.

Low back pain emanating from internal organs is usually:

    reflected;

    irradiating.

The origin of such pain can be different for women or men, or equally apply to men and women.

Persistent back pain usually caused by inflammatory and irreversible dystrophic and degenerative processes in bone and cartilage tissue, severe violations of the blood flow of the vessels of the legs. Constant pain is less associated with damage to muscles and internal organs.

The pain is called constant when the elimination of the impulse focus is difficult due to the development of irreversible processes in the bone and cartilage tissue. Degenerative and dystrophic processes usually cannot be completely cured. They can be suspended or stopped for a while. In some cases, the pain is eliminated after replacing the damaged tissue with an implant.

The occurrence of pain in the lumbar region is associated with irritation:

    nerve fibers emerging from the damaged vertebrae of the lumbar spine.

    nerve nodes near the spinal column of the lumbar and sacral spine.

Unlike temporary pain, the source of permanent pain is located directly in the lumbar region. In this regard, it is appropriate to give a brief information about the spine.

The human vertebral column consists of five sections and 32-34 vertebrae, including:

    cervical - 7 (lat.Ceruicis);

    chest - 12 (lat.Thoracis);

    lumbar - 5 (lat.Lumborum);

    sacral - 5 (Latin Sacralis);

    coccygeal - 3-5 (lat.Coccyx).

If in the medical literature describing neurological and bone pathology, the letters C, Th, L, S and Co are found, then they denote the first letters of the Latin equivalent of the Russian names of the spine sections.

In the lumbar region, there are five vertebrae and pairs of nerves, which are designated L 1 -L 5.

The localization of pain during stimulation of different pairs of nerves has been established experimentally.

Localization of pain, depending on the lesion of the lumbar vertebrae:

    first or second, pain in the hip and in the front of the knee;

    third or fourth, pain in the knee and upper leg;

    fourth to fifth, pain in the legs up to the first toe from the outside;

    fifth lumbar and first sacral, pain in the legs up to the fifth toe in the back.

Periodic and persistent pains often have a close relationship with each other, so temporary pain becomes permanent.

Lower back pain can be:

    local - its source is in the lumbar region;

    irradiating - a pain impulse comes to the lower back along the branches of the nerves;

    reflected - a pathological impulse is formed opposite the place of pain manifestation.

The last two types of pain are interrelated. Reflected lower back pain is always combined with symptoms of damage to the organ, from which the pain impulse to the lower back emanates. For example, frequent urination with back pain is a sign of kidney or bladder disease.

According to the intensity of lower back pain, they are divided into: strong, weak, shooting, aching, permanent, temporary, shingles.

Remember: if lower back pain lasts longer than three days, it is imperative to seek qualified medical help, because the longer you endure, the more costs and efforts will need to be put into treatment.

Girdle lower back pain

Feels like squeezing the body around the lower back with a tight, wide belt. Such pain is usually a sign of pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas), some variants of appendicitis, diseases of internal organs with extensive damage to nerve fibers. Rarely, such pain is evidence of a spinal lesion.

To determine the cause of back pain at home, pay attention to the accompanying symptoms, for example: pain with pancreatitis is usually intense, with appendicitis it is different, more often weak, pulling. Vomiting with appendicitis is often single, with pancreatitis multiple times.

Stabbing back pain

Sharp, stabbing pain in the lower back - lumbago. In addition to pinching the nerve and hernia of the vertebrae, the pain impulse can come from the muscles of the lower back. This is the result of a pinpoint focus of nerve inflammation.

Frequent urination

The problem of young women. Possible exacerbation during painful cycles. Another reason for frequent urination is cystitis. It manifests itself in gynecology, as a result of reflex irritation of the bladder. The most likely localization is in the lower abdomen. Low back pain is referred to as pain. It usually goes away after the appointment of a gynecologist. It is advisable to be examined by a neurologist and gynecologist.

Temperature for back pain

Sign of involvement of muscle inflammation, including in the lumbar region. With inflammation without the involvement of pathogenic microflora, the temperature remains at 37.0 0 C. If the pain is caused by an infection, for example, herpes Zoster (girdle pain in the lower back), the temperature reaches 38.0-39.0 0 C and is combined with other symptoms indicating for infection. With a zoster infection, this is a skin rash. You should always pay close attention to such a dangerous multifactorial symptom as hyperthermia.

What to do if you have severe lower back pain?


Optimal algorithm of actions in case of an attack of lower back pain:

    If the cause of the pain is unknown, measure the temperature, this indicator may suggest the presence of inflammation and infection; determine the accompanying symptoms (vomiting, diarrhea, tongue filling, lower back pain on the one hand, the other); call a doctor and get tested.

    If the cause is known (bruise, muscle sprain), you should:

    2.1. take one of the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (diclofenac, ibuprofen), this will relieve inflammation and reduce pain;

    2.2. take a diuretic (veroshpiron) once, helps relieve swelling, enhances the circulation of fluids in the focus of inflammation, which contributes to the rapid evacuation of harmful substances from the body.

    2.3. Tighten the lumbar region with a towel or orthopedic belt, this will help to fix the muscles and bones in a stable state.

    2.4. See a doctor for advice, diagnosis and treatment.

    If the cause is known (displacement of the vertebrae), you should follow the recommendations of clause 2, then contact the clinic, undergo a CT, MRI diagnostic examination, and receive recommendations for the reduction of the vertebrae by a chiropractor.

What not to do if you have severe back pain:

    Warm the affected area - this will aggravate the process, since heat increases blood flow.

    Relieve pain for unknown reasons and protracted processes. This cannot be done, since relieving pain can provoke further destruction of bone tissue and irritation of muscle fibers during movements in the absence of discomfort.

    Correct the vertebrae at a chiropractor without examination and establishing the reasons for the displacement. Displacement of the vertebrae is not always the result of trauma; it can also occur as a result of degenerative processes. Regular reduction can permanently destroy the processes of the vertebra and pinch the nerve.

Just 1 exercise eliminates back pain in 2 minutes (with sedentary work)


Another effective exercise: We sit on a chair, put the foot of one leg on the knee of the other. Pull your hands forward, bend down. Our task is to touch the legs with the torso, but, of course, this will not work, but the goal is just that. We stretch downward with constant pressure, without swaying. Thanks to this exercise, the spasm in the lumbar spine is relieved.



With pain in the spine, first of all, you should contact a neuropathologist at the district clinic, if the patient's condition is stable, or call an ambulance. Low back pain can be one of the symptoms of gynecological, urological, surgical and gastroenterological problems.

Low back pain is often associated with various infections and injuries to the extremities. Pain in the lower back with diseases of the heart and lungs is not excluded. This is established with an in-depth examination.

After the patient is diagnosed, they are usually prescribed drugs to reduce back pain, normalize blood circulation, and help restore nerve tissue. It can be tablets, gels, ointments or injections that relieve inflammation and spasms: novocaine, lidocaine, cortisone, dexamethasone and others.

Surgical intervention is usually required when diagnosing a herniated disc, which is a complication of osteochondrosis. The hernia, compressing the nerve root, is removed, it is restored, and the pain disappears over time.

The best way to relax your spine and paravertebral muscles is to sleep on a hard mattress with a small pillow under your knees. At the same time, bed rest should not last too long, because this is fraught with weakening of the paravertebral muscles, which will only aggravate the problem. Even with severe pain, you need to try to maintain at least weak physical activity.


Education: Moscow Medical Institute. IM Sechenov, specialty - "General Medicine" in 1991, in 1993 "Occupational Diseases", in 1996 "Therapy".


Back pain is a fairly common reason for visiting a doctor; according to statistics, up to eighty percent of older people face this problem. Pain in the back can be of a completely different nature and arise for various reasons, sometimes they indicate the development of serious diseases.

In some cases, there is no particular danger in pain in the back, their occurrence can be triggered by physical fatigue. However, if the pain appears constantly, sometimes for no apparent reason, by its nature it does not resemble the usual sensations when muscles are overworked, you should be wary. The likelihood of developing a dangerous disease is high.

Previously, it was believed that most spinal diseases occur exclusively at an older age, but at the moment statistics show that among young people there are also quite a few people with degenerative back diseases. Therefore, at any age, you should carefully listen to your own body. Do not ignore back pain, especially if it comes on often and is so intense that it interferes with daily activities.

There are many reasons for back pain. Most often, various diseases of the spine, the nerves of this department. However, in some cases, pain in diseases of other organs can simply radiate to the back, as a result of which it seems that it is the back that hurts. In general, the following reasons for the occurrence of painful sensations in this part of the body are distinguished:

  1. Osteochondrosis. This degenerative disease, characterized by loss of elasticity of the intervertebral discs and their destruction, occurs in most cases. Osteochondrosis can affect various parts of the spine: cervical, thoracic, lumbar. The nature and localization of pain will depend on the location of the lesion.
  2. Various curvatures and dysfunctions of the spine. The most common scoliosis, kyphosis, lordosis and others. In addition, curvatures often provoke the development of other pathologies against their background.
  3. Spinal protrusion, hernia formation. These pathologies are usually found against the background of other diseases, for example, osteochondrosis. With protrusions and hernias, the correct position of the vertebrae changes, as a result of which pain and other disorders occur.
  4. Various inflammatory diseases of the sciatic nerve, nerve endings in different parts of the spine. Often there are inflammation of the sciatic nerve, sciatica, and lumbago.
  5. Spinal injuries, destabilization of the vertebrae. Fractures and other injuries are extremely dangerous for a number of reasons, often with trauma to the spine, damage to the spinal cord and nerve endings located in different parts of the spinal column occurs.
  6. In rare cases, pain can be triggered by the formation of tumors in the spine. Various neoplasms are not so common, however, when analyzing the symptoms, such a possibility should not be excluded.
  7. Various diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, diseases of the genitourinary system. With various pathologies of the internal organs, pain can be given to the back, while they are usually localized in the lower back, in the lumbar region.

Increased physical activity can also cause pain. However, in this case, painful sensations arise exclusively in the muscles, their cause can be clearly traced, after a while they pass on their own. It should be borne in mind that constant high loads, inappropriate to the level of physical fitness, can provoke the development of back diseases.

The occurrence of the diseases of the spine themselves is usually influenced by several factors. Most often, back pain occurs in people who neglect physical activity, spending more time in a sitting position. Improper nutrition is also sometimes called a factor. An unhealthy diet leads to a lack of essential vitamins and minerals necessary for the normal functioning of the musculoskeletal system.

Among women

It also happens that the back hurts during pregnancy. Carrying a child is an additional load on the spine, back muscles, and the body as a whole. Therefore, the greater the mass of the fetus, the greater the likelihood of pain during gestation. Sometimes the back hurts after childbirth, since the process itself is also accompanied by a high load on the spine and muscles.

For the same reason, the back hurts after epidural anesthesia, when its effect wears off, the overstrained muscles and the spine begin to ache. The painful sensations associated with childbirth should go away after some time, the main thing is to provide the mother with maximum comfort and peace. If the pain persists, their nature changes, you should consult a doctor.

Important! Only a specialist after a full examination can correctly establish the cause of painful sensations in the back.

Often, it is impossible to establish the cause of pain in the back without a complete examination, so most people do not know which doctor to contact first. You definitely need to visit a doctor in the following case:

  • pain in the back does not go away for several days;
  • back pain occurs for no apparent reason, abruptly, even in the absence of physical activity;
  • painful sensations are accompanied by shortness of breath, breathing disorders, palpitations, fever, stomach cramps, pain in the right hypochondrium;
  • painful sensations have arisen after injury, bruise, fall;
  • the pain radiates to the arm, legs, other parts of the body, against its background the head begins to ache.

To find out why your back hurts, you should consult a neurologist. If necessary, during the examination, a specialist can refer you to an orthopedic surgeon, rheumatologist, gastroenterologist and other doctors. To make the correct diagnosis, an external examination, analysis of complaints, X-rays of the back and other organs, if necessary, MRI or CT are usually required.

If you suspect a disease of the gastrointestinal tract, an ultrasound scan, a blood test will be required. If there is a possibility that the pain is caused by heart disease, an EKG should be done. The list of necessary diagnostics may vary depending on the individual characteristics of the course of the disease.

Kidneys or back hurt: how to determine the disease by the nature of the pain

People often ask how to define a disease by the nature of the pain. In most cases, this causes difficulties, you need to pay attention not only to pain, but to the accompanying symptoms. You should also determine where exactly the pain occurs.

  1. Strong, drawing pains. They arise with osteochondrosis, especially often after sleep and physical exertion, in this case, their location will depend on which part of the spine is affected. Most often, the back hurts in the lumbar region, in the chest form - in the shoulder blades, in the cervical form, the neck and head begin to ache. Osteochondrosis is accompanied by a feeling of numbness in the limbs. Similar pains can also occur with the formation of hernias, with radiculitis in the lumbar region. When coughing, the back hurts in the area of ​​the shoulder blades, the nature of this pain is dull, but strong, with diseases of the lungs and heart.
  2. Sharp pain. Usually occurs with lumbago, pinched nerve in the spine. If acute pain occurs after an injury or long-term hard work, there is a chance of dislocation of the vertebrae. Acute painful sensations under the left shoulder blade in the back can speak of diseases of the heart and lungs, in the lumbar region - of diseases of the genitourinary system. In this case, they are accompanied by an increase in temperature, symptoms of intoxication, and urination disorders.
  3. Aching pains in muscles. In this case, they can be caused by inflammation or overstraining of the back muscles. Usually, when palpating the affected muscles, you can see that they are dense, very tense.
  4. Pain radiating to the lower extremities. It occurs with inflammation of the sciatic nerve, it is accompanied by a feeling of muscle numbness, as if "shoots" in the legs, in the pelvic area, knees. Usually present on only one side of the body.
  5. Radiating pains. With some diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, genitourinary system, pain can be given to the back. In this case, you can pay attention that they are not associated with the spine or muscle tension. Painful sensations in diseases of internal organs do not depend on physical activity, do not disappear for a long time.

Important! If the pain is acute, accompanied by fever, intoxication, there is a reason to call an ambulance.

These are the main types of pain and the most common diseases that cause them. An accurate diagnosis cannot be determined without a full diagnosis, so you should not start treatment without consulting a doctor, especially if the pain is accompanied by other acute symptoms.

What to do if your back hurts

First of all, you should contact a neurologist and establish the disease that caused the pain. After that, a full-fledged treatment usually begins. For most back diseases, it is long-term, complex, and includes various medications, physiotherapy, massage and other techniques.

If there is confidence that the pain is caused precisely by diseases of the back, spinal column or muscles, there are several methods to relieve pain. However, it should be borne in mind that if they are not caused by physical activity, in case of a serious illness, they will return again. You need to see a doctor and find the right treatment. In general, you can quickly relieve pain in the following ways:

  1. Pain medications. Usually use tablets for oral administration based on ibuprofen, nimesulide, Diclofenac. In extremely severe cases, injections, for example, based on Novocaine, may be required, but they should be prescribed by a doctor. Hormonal pain relieving ointments are acceptable as directed by a physician. For pain due to muscle strain, you can try warming pain relievers such as Bengey.
  2. Back belts for back pain. They can be used for osteochondrosis and other diseases of the spine; there are older, folk methods, wool-based belts, and more modern products based on technological materials.
  3. Pepper plaster and other varieties. It is usually indicated for non-inflammatory conditions, so care should be taken when using it. Due to the warming effect, it turns out to get rid of the pain.
  4. Gymnastics. If the pain was caused by physical exertion, you can try to gently stretch the tense muscles and spine. Exercises should be done smoothly, carefully so as not to harm. Gymnastics is also used for osteochondrosis.
  5. Folk remedies. You can also use various folk remedies to relieve pain. Compresses based on honey, potatoes, taking decoctions and infusions of medicinal herbs inside: chamomile, sage, mint can help relieve pain. For back pain, it is advised to use a dog hair belt.

Important! In case of inflammatory diseases of internal organs, it is impossible to use “warming up” techniques.

These funds should help relieve back pain. However, if they return after some time, you should consult a doctor, they may talk about the development of a dangerous disease.

It is unlikely that there is at least one person who, at least once in his life, has encountered such a problem as lower back pain. Usually, painful sensations arise suddenly and can be ignored for a long time. But is it worth ignoring the signals of your own body?

The modern rhythm of life makes you spend most of your time in a sitting position. As a result, on some muscles and a lack of load on others. Exercise, long walks, swimming in the pool and other physical activities are an excellent prevention of various diseases, but it is not always possible to devote time to all this. Let's talk about the causes of girdle pain in the lower back and how what measures should be taken when it appears.

Reason one: diseases of the musculoskeletal system


The most common reason the occurrence of lower back pain are diseases of the spine... Among them, the following are separately distinguished:

  • osteochondrosis;
  • scoliosis;
  • trauma;
  • radiculitis;
  • tuberculous and syphilitic processes;
  • neoplasms (tumors).

We put osteochondrosis in the first place, because this disease is the most common and one of the most dangerous.

Initially, osteochondrosis may be asymptomatic. Unpleasant sensations can be felt only when the intervertebral discs have become sufficiently thinned, and nerve entrapment has begun.

The next stage is the development of inflammation, which leads to swelling and even greater infringement.

How does the disease manifest itself? Externally, osteochondrosis manifests itself as a curvature of the spine and restriction of movement. In this case, the spine in the lumbar region is quite painful. Pain relief is observed in a horizontal position while adopting a specific posture.

Which doctor should I go to?


Since osteochondrosis has a number of concomitant diseases (for example, gastrointestinal diseases), you need to consult a therapist to draw up a treatment plan. Based on the analyzes performed, he will be able to give a referral for consultation to specialized specialists.

First aid

First aid is especially needed to the patient, if he has a so-called "lumbago". To alleviate the condition, it is necessary to lay the person on their back on a hard surface.

Treatment of osteochondrosis

First of all, you must observe strict bed rest. Treatment can be divided into several stages:

  1. Pain syndrome treatment. It can be done both at home and in a hospital. Compresses are applied to the patient, rubbing is done, pain relievers are given.
  2. Therapy, which includes the use of vasodilators, dehydrating drugs, analgesic blockade.
  3. Neurological procedures (manual manipulation, physiotherapy, administration of necessary medications)
  4. Recovery stage. It is carried out in a hospital, at home or in a sanatorium. This stage is aimed at restoring functions and rehabilitating the body.

After the course of treatment preventive measures must be followed, namely: move more if the work is sedentary - take breaks every hour, sleep on a hard bed, go to the pool and monitor your weight.

Reason two: pregnancy


Many pregnant women notice the onset of girdle pain... The period of waiting for the baby is an exciting and difficult time when the expectant mother needs to pay great attention to her well-being.

There are two main causes of pain: the threat of miscarriage and an increase in the load on the spine (especially at 5-6 months, when there is a rapid growth of the abdomen, then the legs and lower back hurt).

Other causes (for example, kidney disease, genitourinary system) are usually identified in the course of a general examination when registering. Some pregnant women may complain that they have pain in the lower back and tailbone - these symptoms occur when preparing the pelvis for childbirth.

Which doctor should I go to?

It is best to consult a gynecologist who is leading a pregnancy. If the pain is tolerable, then you can visit the doctor yourself. In case of severe pain, it is recommended to call an ambulance.

Treatment

Treatment for the threat of miscarriage is carried out in a hospital. In the second option, doctors recommend wearing a bandage and doing special gymnastics for pregnant. Knee-elbow positions are especially helpful.

Prophylaxis

If there are no contraindications, then a visit to the pool is an excellent prevention of lower back pain. Strengthen muscles well and daily walks in the fresh air (at least 1-2 hours). Please note that physical activity should increase gradually, otherwise the pain syndrome will not be long in coming.

Reason three: diseases of the gastrointestinal tract


Diseases of the gastrointestinal tract that can cause girdle pain in the lumbar region include:

  • pancreatitis;
  • appendicitis;
  • colitis and enteritis;
  • diseases of the duodenum;
  • ulcers and other diseases of the stomach.

Sharp and severe pain occurs precisely during attacks of pancreatitis, therefore, most often people with suspicion of this disease turn to doctors.

How does pancreatitis manifest? The pain occurs sharply, but in a sitting position or when the body is tilted forward, it subsides. When the lower back hurts while lying down or the lower back hurts when you get up - we can say with sufficient certainty that this is pancreatitis.

Pain syndrome may be accompanied by fever, decreased appetite and nausea, bloating, hiccups, shortness of breath, discomfort in the epigastric region.

I would like to add that, like any other disease, pancreatitis does not appear suddenly, but can develop over the years... If you observe the occurrence of mild pain 15 minutes after a meal, passing after a short time, it is better to consult a doctor.

Which doctor should I go to?


If you suspect pancreatitis, it is recommended to consult a therapist or gastroenterologist. In case of acute pancreatitis, it is necessary to urgently call an ambulance. Otherwise, this disease can develop into another, even more dangerous - pancreatic necrosis.

First aid for acute pancreatitis

There are situations when it is impossible to quickly call an ambulance or it may not arrive soon. To relieve an attack of acute pancreatitis the following measures must be taken:

  1. Sit down the patient and tilt the body forward a little. Give him peace.
  2. Eliminate food intake.
  3. Provide fluid intake every half hour, but not more than ¼ glass.
  4. Give the patient 0.8 mg of No-Shpy or Drotaverin. Medicines containing enzymes (Creon, Mezin, etc.) should be excluded.
  5. Apply something cold to the back of your pancreas.

Treatment

Acute pancreatitis is treated only in a hospital... In chronic pancreatitis, specialists can prescribe antispasmodics (for example, No-Shpa) or a course of antisecretory drugs.

Also, strict adherence to the diet is imperative. With long-term chronic pancreatitis, enzymes can be prescribed, for example, Festal, Pancreatin, Micrasim, Creon and others.

Reason four: kidney disease


Due to the increased popularity of kidney disease worth highlighting as a separate item. Despite their variety, almost all of them cause girdle pain in the lower back.

Symptoms can easily be confused with other diseases.

Most common:

  • pyelonephritis;
  • cystitis;
  • urolithiasis disease;
  • glomerulonephritis;
  • nephroptosis;
  • various types of tumors.

How does it manifest? By themselves the kidneys are not sensitive to pain so it is not always easy to spot a problem right away before the tipping point. Other symptoms include increased urination, nausea and decreased appetite, and chills.

Occasionally - an increase in temperature, but, as a rule, it rises in parallel with the pain syndrome or literally a few days before it. It often happens that when the lower back hurts, it hits the leg.

Sometimes patients complain: "The lower back hurts when I sit" - this symptom also takes place. Please note that with such a disease, the pain does not go away with a change in body position.

Which doctor should I go to?

As a rule, kidney diseases make themselves felt quite clearly, therefore, in most cases, an ambulance is called to the patient.

If you just have suspicions, you can visit a therapist who will give you referral to a nephrologist or urologist(depending on the type of disease).

This video clearly shows the causes of lower back pain
https://youtu.be/nJMLXCuwrZY

First aid

The patient must be put to bed and provided with a drink - plain water, fruit drinks from lingonberries or cranberries. The lumbar region can be wrapped in a warm blanket or a woolen sweater and wait for a doctor's appointment.

Treatment

Almost all kidney diseases require long-term treatment. First, it is carried out in a hospital, after which a course of drugs for home use is prescribed.

The main danger is the risk of recurrence the same disease, therefore prevention is very important. First of all, it is necessary to avoid even a slight hypothermia of the body. Secondly, try to drink plenty of herbal teas or fruit drinks.

Reason five: heart


As paradoxical as it may sound, sometimes girdle pain in the lower back can be a sign of heart disease, such as myocardial infarction.

The main symptoms are displacement of pain from the left shoulder blade down... The pain may involve the chest and spread to the left arm (or pain in the lower back and left leg). In such cases, there is only one way out - to immediately call an ambulance.

Conclusion

Much less often it hurts under the lower back during exacerbations of female diseases - mostly the pain radiates to the sides. Also, similar situations are noted in diseases of the peripheral nervous system or herpes zoster (for example, the lower back hurts and pulls the legs).

But whatever problem suits you in terms of symptoms, the conclusion is the same - you need to get to the doctor's examination as soon as possible... Only this will avoid serious complications.

Back and lower back pain - a harbinger of illness or a common occurrence?

Thank you

The site provides background information for informational purposes only. Diagnosis and treatment of diseases must be carried out under the supervision of a specialist. All drugs have contraindications. A specialist consultation is required!


Complaints about back pain and lower back pain are found all the time in emergency and outpatient medical practice. The severity of this condition is due to the fact that acute pain severely limits the physical activity and working capacity of people.

Most often, complaints are about:

1. Back pain above the lower back.
2. Pain in the lower back.
3. Back pain below the lower back.

Back pain above the lower back

This pain can occur intermittently, or it can be chronic. Sometimes the pain goes away, but it can come back again, after lifting the weight; a sharp tilt of the body; long sitting at an uncomfortable table.

The main reason could be:

  • Poor posture.
  • Improperly equipped workplace.
  • Myosfacial syndrome.

Back pain

The most common condition. Usually occurs in middle-aged and older people, but young people are not immune from the manifestation of such symptoms. There is even a separate name for this condition, firmly entrenched in medicine - “ lumbago».

Pain with lumbago arises against the background of strong physical exertion or with a sharp awkward movement and is so intense that the person seems to "wedge" in one position. When you try to change the posture of the body to a more comfortable one, the pain intensifies. In addition to physical exertion, hypothermia can affect the occurrence of pain.

The predetermining causes of lumbago are:

  • Radiculitis.
  • Lumbar hernia.
  • Displacement of the vertebrae.
  • Intervertebral disc prolapse ( with very intense physical activity).
The pain with lumbago is very sharp, shooting, acute, therefore this pain is also called " lumbago". Sometimes the lumbago makes it difficult to even deeply inhale and exhale air. In a lying, calm position, the pain gradually disappears. Patients feel this, as if in the lower back "something has fallen into place."

Lower back pain

Lower back pain often radiates to the legs. May be acute or chronic. It occurs against the background of physical exertion, after hypothermia.

The reason may be:

  • Ankylosing spondylitis.
  • Radiculitis.
A common complaint is pain in the back and lower back directly on the right side. This is a possible sign of renal colic.

Symptoms:
pain radiates to the abdomen, genitals. Sometimes patients feel an acute urge to urinate.

The nature of the pain - extremely sharp and intense. This is a medical emergency requiring immediate medical attention. In this case, the first step is to call an ambulance.

There are several types of back and lower back pain:

1. Pain of musculoskeletal genesis.
2. Pain caused by trauma.
3. Pain radiating to the lumbar region.


4. Pain that begins in people younger than 50.
5. Pain that begins in people over 50.
6. Pain that appears during pregnancy ( is not a pathology, arises from an increase in the functional load on the body).

Back and lower back pain of musculoskeletal origin

All small ligaments, joint capsules, connective tissue membranes, bones - everything that, in the aggregate of its functions, allows us to move - has spatial and pain sensitivity. Factors of trauma, excessive stress, displacement of the articular processes, lead to inflammatory reactions that cause pain.

Back and lower back pain due to trauma

A sudden, abrupt load on the muscles can lead to partial damage to the muscle or ligament. Even a healthy person can get a minor injury with a specific injury. The pain is usually accompanied by muscle spasm, which resolves in a few days in a mild case, or in a few weeks in a more severe injury. The pain gradually becomes aching, not sharp.

Pain radiating to the lower back and back

This pain is felt when stenosis occurs ( squeezing) of nerve roots due to narrowing of the spinal canal and openings between the vertebrae or with a herniated disc.

Stenosis

The cause of stenosis is considered to be degenerative changes in the nerve roots. In some cases, a decompression operation is performed - laminectomy... This operation allows access to the spinal cord by dissecting the vertebral arch. Thus, the pressure on the nerve roots is relieved or even completely eliminated.

The pressure on the roots occurs due to age-related changes, so that young people are practically not susceptible to this disease.

Pain with stenosis occurs in the back, then radiates to the leg. The man walks with a limp. It is accompanied by a feeling of numbness, dull aching pain.

Herniated disc

This disease develops gradually. According to statistics, acute attacks of pain in a herniated disc occur in people thirty years of age and older. Symptoms manifest themselves in each person in different ways, but there are common signs: for example, a person limps, avoids heavy stress on the affected side, keeps the affected limb in a bent state. If, during the examination, the doctor asks to bend, straighten, turn the affected leg - he will definitely note that the patient has a reduced range of motion.

Back and lower back pain that occurs in people younger than 50

The group of diseases in which back and lower back pain occurs at a young and middle age include:
  • Osteomyelitis of the spine.
  • Spondylolisthesis.
  • Fibrositis.
  • Sacroileitis.
Osteomyelitis- inflammation of the bone marrow, affecting the periosteum and the very substance of the bone. Osteomyelitis of the spine is common among people with infections of the genitourinary system; diabetes mellitus; skin infections; dermal infections. The main symptom of osteomyelitis is lower back pain that worsens when walking. It is accompanied by a state of malaise and fever. The causative agent of osteomyelitis is Staphylococcus aureus.

Children also suffer from osteomyelitis. The pus-forming bacteria spread to the bone and periosteum and decompose the bone. In infants, bone damage leads to arthritis ( joint disorders).

Ways of penetration of the causative agent of osteomyelitis:

  • Through the bloodstream.
  • Through the focus of inflammation.
  • Through penetrating trauma ( for example, after a bone fracture or after operations on bone tissue, due to a traumatic operation technique and violation of the principles of asepsis).
Spondylolisthesis is called the displacement of the fifth lumbar vertebra forward towards the sacrum. The symptoms of this disease vary depending on the severity of the degenerative changes.
Main complaints: back pain, pain in the hips, legs; severe weakness. Due to muscle spasm, the range of motion is reduced. Any concussion of the spine increases the pain, so the patient's gait becomes careful and soft. Depending on the degree of displacement of the vertebra, there are four main stages, characterized depending on the percentage of displacement: up to 25%, from 25 to 50%, from 50% to 75%, from 75% and above.

Fibrositis Is an inflammatory process in the fibrous connective tissue. Fibrositis symptoms: pain along the whole body, inactivity of the spine, weakness in the morning after sleep. Pain intensity: moderate to very severe. According to statistics, mainly middle-aged women suffer from fibrositis. Patients often complain of sleep problems, headaches that occur after overexertion, after emotional stress.

Sacroiliitis usually occurs in conjunction with rheumatoid arthritis and chronic inflammation of the intestinal system. This disease is less common; mostly young people are ill with it.
Symptoms:

  • Back and lower back pain.
  • Fever.
  • Dramatic weight loss.
  • Digestive disorders, in particular diarrhea.

Back and lower back pain that occurs in people over 50

The group of diseases that form at an older age after 50 years includes:
  • Osteoporosis.
  • Spondylosis.
  • Spinal tumors.
Osteoporosis- This is a decrease in the density of bone tissue, due to which it becomes fragile and brittle. This is a very common cause of pain in the lower back, caused by metabolic disorders, in particular - a lack of calcium. The disease is typical for older people; both women and men are sick.

Spondylosis forms gradually due to wear and tear of the intervertebral disc. The joints are stretched, dystrophic changes occur in the outer parts of the disc. The reasons may be excessive long-term stress on the musculoskeletal system and trauma to the spine. Symptoms of spondylosis are lower back pain, an increase in the inflammatory process. At first, the pain is not too severe and occurs with prolonged physical activity; subsequently, the pain becomes intense and occurs even when coughing. Exacerbation of pain is accompanied by spasms of the paravertebral muscles.

Spine tumors- not a very common disease. In young people, benign formations are formed that affect the posterior processes of the vertebra. Older people develop malignant tumors that affect the anterior processes of the vertebra.

The defeat of the spine with metastases is a frequent process. Importantly, in 25% of cases of metastatic lesions, the main symptom is back pain.
This fact once again reminds that back and lower back pain is usually a sure sign of the disease.

Back and lower back pain during pregnancy

During pregnancy, many women experience constant pulling pain in the back and lower back. The mechanism of occurrence of this pain is an increase in the secretion of the hormone relaxin, the function of which is to soften the ligaments of the sacral region ( to prepare the birth canal for the passage of the fetus). Since relaxin does not have a selective effect, it affects all the ligaments, which causes pain in the lumbar region, which is subject to an increased load due to the increase in the weight of the pregnant woman.

The increasing weight shifts the center of the torso forward, and the psoas and pelvic muscles contract to balance the body. It is because of the excessive load in these muscles that pain builds up.

  • Move straight, smoothly.
  • Try to avoid lifting weights, if this is impossible - lift without jerking, not abruptly. Lift a weight without bending over, distributing the weight of the weight evenly on both hands.
  • If you need to bend down to the floor, then gently kneel down without bending your back.
  • To get out of bed, you first need to turn on your side, then kneel down, get up, holding on to something stable - for example, the back of a sofa.
  • Do not remove objects located high - you can lose your balance.
  • Don't wear high heels.
Ligament softening with relaxin Is a common, but not the only, cause of back and lower back pain in pregnant women. Sometimes a disc prolapse or a pinching of the sciatic nerve occurs.

Acute lower back pain from the 38th week of pregnancy may indicate the onset of labor. Therefore, in such a situation, it is necessary to urgently call a doctor.

Diagnosis of back and lower back pain

Since there are many causes of back and lower back pain, a situation often arises when it is difficult to differentiate one disease from another that has similar symptoms.

Diagnostics is carried out by the following main methods:

  • Computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging.
  • Myelography.
  • Radionuclide bone scan.
CT scan allows you to identify structural changes in the vertebrae; changes associated with previous infections; injuries, fractures; osteoporosis; tumors; arthritis.

Computer research provides an assessment of three main parameters: the state of bone tissue, soft tissue and blood vessels.

Myelography is a radiopaque examination of the pathways of the spinal cord. Myelography is indicated for all pathological conditions in which the lumen of the spinal canal decreases - with tumors, stenoses, hernias. Contrast agent ( most often xenon gas) is injected into the spinal cord, then an X-ray examination is performed.

If the primary obtained data of X-ray examination are of little informative, then it is shown radionuclide scanning (scintigraphy). This method allows you to diagnose tumor growths, arthritis and other diseases. This method is quite expensive, so it is not always used.

Treatment of back and lower back pain

Treatment of back and lower back pain with an unexplained etiology is symptomatic and involves bed rest, the appointment of sedatives,
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