Acute Lower Back Pain 

Lower back pain is the most common symptom in both the general population and amongst sportspeople. In fact lower back pain affects up to 85% of the population at some point in their life. 

 

Fortunately the vast majority of lower back pain episodes will cease over a three month period. Unfortunately, however, approximately 50% of people who have an episode of back pain will suffer a recurrent episode. 

 

Acute episodes or sudden episodes of lower back pain can be very scary and is often triggered by minor movement such as twisting or bending to pick up an object or a weight. 

 

These acute episodes are more of an indication of fatigue of the tissues or lack of control rather than overloading or overexerting the tissues. 

 

Pain is obviously quite severe during these times and will deter you from continuing to move into pain provoking positions. However during this time it is extremely important to try and keep moving within your pain limitations and remember that pain during this time does not mean you are causing further damage.

 

There are a few phrases that can be helpful when you are suffering during this time and they are “you are sore but safe” and “this too shall pass”. 

 

The body has a remarkable capacity to heal itself and therefore some light gentle movement like walking or some very gentle exercise can be extremely helpful to promote healing. 

 

In addition to some gentle movement, you are able to do some other things to help you get out of pain faster. This includes things like using heat packs to relax the soft tissue, medication like paracetamol or anti-inflammatories will also be helpful but more importantly the knowledge and reassurance to keep moving within your pain limitation can be extremely beneficial when suffering from an acute episode of lower back pain. 

 

If you or if you know of anyone who has or is suffering from an acute episode of lower back pain or if you have any further questions in regards to an acute episode of lower than please feel free to contact me on the details listed below. 

 

 

 

Chris Pearson
Physiotherapist & Accredited Exercise Physiologist 

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