Should I see a doctor: Lower back pain

As you stand up following a long binge session of your favorite show, your back throws an angry ache your way. You do a quick stretch and it seems to help, but later that night the throbbing returns.

If it’s gone the next day, let’s call it a fluke. If you haven’t found relief a few weeks later, though, it may be time to call your provider.

What’s ‘normal’

Back pain can hit at any age, although you may find it easier to tweak your back as you get older. Ultimately, most back pain is related to activity level. Not just how much physical activity you’re getting, but what kind. If you’re developing asymmetrical muscle strength —for every push movement, you need a pull — it may be throwing your back out of whack.

Lower back pain is to be expected after a hard workout, forgetting to stretch post-workout or if you have a sedentary job. If it lasts only a day or two and can be easily released with some self-care, there’s no reason for concern. Although you may want to consider making some changes to your physical activity to prevent recurrences.

What’s ‘not normal’

If you find yourself reaching for pain relievers on a regular basis (more than a few days a week) or your pain isn’t going away despite all your efforts and lifestyle changes, it’s time to talk with your doctor or other health care provider.

Other dangerous red flags that should be evaluated by an emergency provider include: radiating pain that shoots from your back down your leg; weakness in the back or legs lower extremities that throws off your balance or causes debilitating pain; bowel issues or loss of bowel control related to back pain; or inability to walk or move.

How to care for your condition

One of the worst things to do for back pain is to stop moving. You don’t need to run a marathon, but some light activity and stretching are key to preventing the muscles from cramping further.

You’ll want to focus on targeted stretching (glutes and hamstrings) and strengthening your core muscles. Try dynamic exercises, like playing a sport, and ensure your movements are balanced (a push for every pull, and mixing up your routine regularly).

If you have a sedentary lifestyle, such as working at a desk, ergonomic practices can help prevent things from getting worse. Think in 90-degree angles — feet flat on floor, hips and knees at right angle, elbows at sides and eyes in line with middle of the screen. Humans aren’t meant to be stagnant, so try introducing movement when you can, like a sit to stand desk to keep your hip flexors and sitting muscles awake.

And don’t forget to care for those tight muscles with Epsom salt baths.

Medical review provided for this piece by Troy Underbrink, DO, with MultiCare Family Medicine – West Tacoma.