Relieving lower back pain : Your online pharmacy selection

What is low back pain?

Low back pain refers to pain in the lower part of the back. It can be acute, lasting less than six weeks, or chronic, lasting more than three months. The causes are varied, including physical factors such as poor posture, overweight, injury or musculoskeletal disorders, and psychosocial factors such as stress or depression.

What are the main causes of low back pain?

Low back pain can be caused by :

• Natural wear and tear of intervertebral discs and joints (arthrosis).
• Injury or trauma, such as a fall or accident.
• Muscular or ligament disorders, often due to intense or incorrect physical effort.
• Prolonged poor posture, especially in people who work long hours in a sitting or standing position.

How can low-back pain be prevented?

Preventing low-back pain is based on a number of essential practices:

• Maintaining correct posture by adjusting the ergonomics of your workspace.
• Regular exercise to strengthen back muscles and improve flexibility.
• Avoid overweight through a balanced diet and regular physical activity.
• Learn and apply techniques for lifting heavy loads correctly.

What treatments are effective for lower back pain?

Treatment for low back pain varies according to the cause and severity of the pain. The most common options include :

• Physiotherapy, which helps strengthen back muscles and improve mobility.
• Painkillers, such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, for short-term pain relief.
• Injections of corticosteroids or anesthetics into the lumbar region may be considered for more severe cases.
• Surgery, considered as a last resort, notably for major disc herniations or severe degeneration of the vertebrae.

How can yoga help relieve low-back pain?

Yoga is renowned for its flexibility and muscle-strengthening benefits, which are essential for preventing and relieving low-back pain. Postures such as child's pose, bridge and cat-cow pose can be particularly beneficial in stretching and strengthening the muscles of the lower back.

Are there any natural remedies for lower back pain?

Yes, some natural remedies can complement medical treatments for lower back pain:

• Applying heat (hot water bottles, heating pads) or cold (ice compresses) can relieve pain.
• Essential oils such as lavender or peppermint oil can be massaged to relax muscles.
• Magnesium or calcium supplements can help strengthen bones and muscles, reducing the risk of future pain.

What role does nutrition play in the prevention and treatment of low back pain?

A balanced diet plays a crucial role in preventing low-back pain by maintaining a healthy body weight and providing the nutrients needed for healthy bones and muscles. Specific nutrients, such as calcium, vitamin D and magnesium, are essential for maintaining bone health and preventing conditions that could aggravate low-back pain. In addition, foods rich in antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids can help reduce inflammation, a contributing factor to low back pain.

How does stress affect low-back pain, and how can it be managed?

Stress can exacerbate low back pain by causing muscle tension, which in turn increases pain. Managing stress is therefore an important aspect of low-back pain treatment. Techniques such as meditation, yoga and deep breathing can help reduce stress. In addition, activities such as walking or swimming can also help to reduce stress levels and, consequently, relieve pain.

Is low-back pain more common in certain professions or activities?

Yes, certain professions or activities are more prone to low-back pain, particularly those requiring intense physical effort, repetitive movements or long periods of sitting or standing. In particular, construction workers, office workers, drivers and healthcare workers are more likely to suffer from low back pain. It is crucial for these individuals to adopt proper ergonomic techniques and take regular breaks to move or stretch.

What impact does age have on low-back pain?

Age is a significant risk factor for low-back pain, as the body naturally undergoes degenerative changes over time. Intervertebral discs can lose hydration and become less flexible, leading to low-back pain. However, by maintaining regular physical activity, eating a nutrient-rich diet and avoiding excess weight, it is possible to minimize these risks and maintain a healthy spine for longer.

How can rehabilitation help patients suffering from chronic low-back pain?

Rehabilitation for chronic low back pain includes a variety of physical therapies and exercises aimed at restoring function, improving mobility and reducing pain. A personalized rehabilitation program can include strengthening and flexibility exercises, manual mobilization techniques and ergonomic advice. The aim is to strengthen the muscles that support the spine, improve posture and teach pain management techniques that can be used on a daily basis to manage and reduce symptoms.