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You are here: Experts > Religion/Spirituality > Holistic Healing > Pain Management > back pain
Expert: Dr. Man Tran, Ph.D., D.C., L.Ac. - 10/30/2009
Question
QUESTION: I have had this pain in my lower back off and on throughout my life. It usually arises when i am lifting a lot of things; light or heavy. It feels like my nerve in my lower left side of my back is being pinched. When i feel it i can not stand up perfectly straight or if i am sitting i have trouble bending forward. I have always had trouble with my lower back. I have tried to get my back adjusted but that only helps for that day but then the pain is back the next day. I was wondering if you have an idea of what it may be?
ANSWER: Hi Jennifer,
Your age can make a different in answering your question. But I will do my best and give you options.
As you described, the pain comes with activities involving the use of the low back. This could indicate muscle spasm and tightness. The cause of the muscle spasm could range from you having a prior trauma to the low back area. Think back....does not have to be a one incident but cumulative. Also your age may be an issue. If you are under 30 y/o, this could be due to your hobby or work related activities. If you are 40 years or older, then I would suggest to take an x-ray of the low back to see if there is any structural change to the spine and bone itself. There could be some arthritis occurring but only x-ray can confirm that.
---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------
QUESTION: ok, well i am 19. I cant really think of anything (injury wise) The thing that triggered it this time is while i was at work, i was doing a lot of lifting of boxes. If it is the musle spasms, is there anything i could do? would stretching do anything?
Answer
Hi Jennifer,
Then you might have some muscle spasm of your lower back. For self help, you can try using heat on the area if there is no swelling. Massage can also help. Stretching can help depending on what stage of injury you are in. The muscle tightened up because it is the body natural way of protecting itself. I would not recommend stretching if that is the case. If you do all the above and the symptom still persists, I would recommend to see a professional such as a chiropractor or acupuncturist who would have more knowledge in your case to manage.
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