It may be a surprise, but many back pain patients did not experience any accident, trauma, or major injury prior to the onset of their condition. In fact, several cases of back pain are often the result of improper posture, poor work habits, a lack of exercise, incorrect lifting, and other lifestyle-related factors. All these issues contribute to the imbalance of the spine, which is what eventually leads to pain.

What is acute low back pain?

A back pain is considered acute if its onset is fairly abrupt but goes away within a few days or within a span of three to six weeks. According to the North American Spine Society (NASS), the pain experienced can be describes as aching, burning, stabbing, sharp or dull, well-defined, or vague. The intensity may range from mild to severe and may fluctuate and may radiate into one or both buttocks or even into the thigh/hip area.

Who is at risk?

The NASS states that at least 80% of individuals experience a significant episode of low back pain at some point in their lives. That said, people over 40 years of age are more susceptible to back pain because the risk grows higher with age as disc degeneration occurs. Factors such as diet, stress, fitness level, and genetics may also play a role in the development of acute back pain.

How should the condition be treated?

Long-term rest is not only considered unnecessary for back pain treatment, it is actually potentially harmful. Although it may seem counter-intuitive, continuing to remain active is the best course of treatment for this condition. “Activity keeps blood and nutrients flowing to the affected area, inhibiting inflammation and reducing muscular tension,” explains NASS. “Local application of heat or ice can temporarily reduce pain and heat may facilitate stretching, although it won’t necessarily speed up recovery.”

If acute back pain keeps you from performing daily activities, South San Francisco urgent care centers can help by prescribing pain medications such as acetaminophen or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Both are known to be effective for acute low back pain, but should be used only as prescribed.

If you continue to experience acute back pain after treatment, or simply have a few concerns, visit a convenient South San Francisco walk-in clinic like U.S. HealthWorks Medical Group to receive the medical attention or information you need.

(Info from Acute Low Back Pain, North American Spine Society)