6 Causes and Treatments of Lower Back Pain on Left Side




A dull back pain on the left side that also affects the leg and hip is more common than chronic back pain on right side. Many people complain cold sensation running in their foot, but some people experience hot poker sensation. Lower back pain is one of the most common reasons for emergency room visits. An average American has almost 80% chances of experiencing chronic back pain at some point in his or her life. This condition is considered to be the fourth most common health issue in the U.S. Here’s a look at 6 of the common causes behind lower back pain on left side.

Causes and Treatments


1.    Pregnancy

Pregnancy can initiate lower back pain on the left side due to weight gain. Moreover, estrogen can contribute to the loosening of muscles and ligaments of the lumbar spine.  

Treatment: Stretches and exercises are recommended to relieve the pain. Before starting any pelvic tilt, consult your doctor. 

2.    Aging 

Age-related weakness may also cause lower back pain on left side. With age, the water and protein content in your body changes, resulting in fragile, weaker, and thinner cartilage. Since the joints and spinal discs are placed in the vertebrae, the spine undergoes wear and tear and causes lower back pain. 

Treatment: People can take rest, use heat compress, and perform a gentle exercise.  Doctors also prescribe medications to soothe muscle spasm, inflammation, and lower back pain.

3.    Lumbar Strain

It is one of the most common causes of left side lower back pain. Also known as lower back strain, this condition is a stretch injury that can affect the muscles, tendons, and ligaments on the lower back. It can occur due to the improper back movements or certain body traumas.

Treatment: Patients can take rest and apply heat compress. A gentle massage can also aid in treating the condition.

4.    Lumbar Injury

Fractures or injuries can be the major culprit of lower back pain on left side. Scrum bone and lumbar spine fractures are common among people living with osteoporosis. Patients may feel pain that worsens with movement.

Treatment: Get plenty of rest and sleep because this injury usually takes weeks to heal. Doctors may also prescribe painkillers. 

5.    Sciatica

Severe irritation may occur when the nerve goes under pressure. The pain can be mild to moderate with extreme discomfort and burning sensation. Sneezing, coughing, straining, twisting, sitting for a long time, all can worsen sciatica pain.

Treatment: Acupuncture and biofeedback therapy can alleviate lower back pain on left side. Moreover, you doctor may prescribe muscles relaxants to ease spasms. In some cases, surgical procedure and scheduled physical therapy are also recommended. 

6.    Prolapsed Disc

The condition can affect the discs that provide cushioning effect in a vertebra. A prolapsed disk may result in weakness, numbness, and pain in the lower back.

Treatment: Bracing the lower back and neck for a short time is recommended to correct the position of discs. If the conservative treatment failed to alleviate pain, consult the best spine surgeons, Los Angeles has to offer for surgical procedures.

 


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