A common condition affecting the lumbar spine, causing discomfort that ranges from mild aches to severe, debilitating pain that can significantly impact daily activities.
Seek immediate medical attention if back pain follows a fall or injury, is accompanied by numbness or weakness in legs, causes bladder or bowel problems, is associated with fever or unexplained weight loss, or if the pain is severe and doesn't improve with rest. Chronic pain lasting more than 6 weeks should also be evaluated by a healthcare professional.
Find a Specialist NowLower back pain (LBP) is one of the most prevalent health complaints affecting Filipinos across all age groups. From office workers in Makati to farmers in the provinces, back pain doesn't discriminate. According to global health data, lower back pain is the leading cause of disability worldwide, and the Philippines is no exception. Understanding this condition is essential for prevention and effective management.
The lower back, or lumbar region, consists of five vertebrae (L1-L5) that support much of the upper body's weight. This area also contains intervertebral discs that act as shock absorbers, ligaments that hold the spine together, muscles that provide movement and stability, and nerves that connect the spine to the rest of the body.
Lower back pain can originate from any of these structures. It ranges from a dull, constant ache to a sudden, sharp sensation that leaves you unable to move. While most cases resolve within a few weeks, some develop into chronic conditions requiring long-term management.
Acute Back Pain: Lasts less than 6 weeks, often caused by muscle strain or injury. Most cases fall into this category and resolve with self-care.
Subacute Back Pain: Lasts between 6 weeks and 3 months. May indicate an underlying issue needing attention.
Chronic Back Pain: Persists for more than 3 months. Affects about 20% of people with acute back pain and often requires comprehensive treatment.
Several factors contribute to the high prevalence of lower back pain in the Philippines:
Occupational Factors: Many Filipinos work in jobs that strain the back—construction workers, factory laborers, domestic helpers, and healthcare workers engage in heavy lifting and repetitive motions. Meanwhile, the growing BPO industry has created millions of sedentary office jobs.
Commuting Stress: Long commutes in jeepneys, buses, and tricycles expose the spine to constant vibration and poor seating. The average Metro Manila commute of 1-2 hours daily takes a toll on the lower back.
Lifestyle Changes: Increasing urbanization has led to more sedentary lifestyles. Extended hours on smartphones and computers contribute to poor posture from a young age.
Healthcare Access: Many Filipinos self-medicate with pain relievers rather than seeking proper diagnosis and treatment, potentially worsening underlying conditions.
Mechanical Causes (Most Common):
Muscle or Ligament Strain: The most frequent cause, often from lifting heavy objects improperly, sudden awkward movements, or muscle fatigue from prolonged poor posture.
Herniated Disc: When the soft interior of a spinal disc pushes through a crack in the tougher exterior. Can irritate nearby nerves, causing pain that radiates down the leg (sciatica).
Degenerative Disc Disease: Age-related wear and tear on spinal discs. Discs lose hydration and flexibility over time, providing less cushioning.
Facet Joint Dysfunction: The joints connecting vertebrae can become inflamed or arthritic, causing pain and stiffness.
Spinal Stenosis: Narrowing of the spinal canal that puts pressure on nerves. More common in older adults.
Structural Issues:
Scoliosis: Abnormal curvature of the spine that can lead to pain, especially in adulthood.
Lordosis: Excessive inward curve of the lower back.
Vertebral Fractures: Can result from trauma or osteoporosis.
Other Causes:
Kidney Problems: Kidney stones or infections can cause back pain.
Infections: Rarely, spinal infections can cause severe back pain.
Tumors: Very rarely, tumors can cause back pain.
Modifiable Risk Factors:
Non-Modifiable Risk Factors:
Typical Lower Back Pain:
Warning Signs (Red Flags):
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
Sciatica Symptoms:
When a herniated disc or bone spur compresses the sciatic nerve:
Medical History and Physical Exam:
Your doctor will ask about:
The physical exam assesses:
Imaging Studies (if needed):
Imaging is usually reserved for cases with red flags, persistent pain, or when surgery is being considered.
Self-Care for Acute Back Pain:
Stay Active: Contrary to old advice, bed rest often worsens back pain. Continue light activities as tolerated.
Pain Management:
Posture Awareness: Be mindful of sitting and standing positions.
Physical Therapy:
The cornerstone of back pain treatment:
Medications:
For Acute Pain:
For Chronic Pain:
Interventional Treatments:
Epidural Steroid Injections: Corticosteroid injected near spinal nerves to reduce inflammation. May provide temporary relief for sciatica.
Nerve Blocks: Targeted injections to block pain signals.
Radiofrequency Ablation: Uses heat to disrupt nerve function and reduce pain.
Surgery (Last Resort):
Considered only when conservative treatments fail and there's a clear structural problem:
At Work:
At Home:
Lifestyle:
Exercises for a Healthy Back:
If back pain becomes chronic:
Comprehensive Approach:
Mind-Body Connection:
Workplace Adaptations:
Most back pain improves within weeks with proper self-care. Even chronic back pain can be managed effectively with the right combination of treatments and lifestyle modifications.
Remember: staying active is often better than resting. Your back is designed to move—it gets stronger with appropriate exercise and weaker with inactivity.
"Ang likod na malakas, susi sa buhay na aktibo." (A strong back is the key to an active life.)
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