Information on Lower Back Pain

What you need to know

What is it?

Lower back pain or Lumbago is a term used to describe pain in the lumbar region, or lower back. It can range in severity – some people get it suddenly, whilst other people suffer from it all the time.

What causes it?

Lower back pain can be caused by a variety of conditions such as a slipped disc, scoliosis (deformation of the natural curvature of the spine), or osteoporosis (brittle bone disease).

What are the symptoms?

Mild to stronger pain across the lower part of your back, buttocks, groin area or down the back of your thigh
A stiff neck
Difficulty in bending forward and leaning back
A tingling sensation or numbness in your back, buttocks or down one or both legs

What can you do to ease it?

Stay active. Resting for long periods of time is not helpful
Take gentle exercise, like swimming, cycling or walking
Ask your GP to give you some techniques for maintaining a good sitting and standing posture
Try sleeping on a very firm, flat surface

For more information, please contact NHS Direct or Trigeminal Neuralgia UK.

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All information presented on these web pages is not meant to diagnose or prescribe. In all health matters please contact your doctor.

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