Low back pain is not a disease, but a symptom that can have multiple causes. Who can have low back pain Low back pain affects a considerable part of the world's population. It is estimated that around 90% of people experience low back pain at least once during their lifetime; Globally, in 2020, approximately 1 in 13 people experienced low back pain, which, according to the World Health Organization, corresponded to a 60% increase compared to 1990; It is known that low back pain is more prevalent in women and older people. However, regardless of gender and age group, currently low back pain is considered one of the main causes of disability. It interferes with the professional, social, and family lives of patients. How is low back pain classified The World Health Organization classifies low back pain into three types, considering its duration: Acute, lasting less than 6 weeks; Subacute, when it lasts 6 to 12 weeks; Chronic, lasting more than 12 weeks. As for the causes, low back pain can be: Primary Secondary Primary or non-specific cause low back pain This is the most common low back pain presentation. It corresponds to 80%-90% of cases observed in health institutions. It is known that its development is associated with a combination of biological, physical, psychological and social factors, such as joint dysfunction, muscular asymmetry, neuronal sensitization, stress and genetic polymorphisms. Low back pain resulting from an underlying pathological process or secondary Among the disorders underlying low back pain is a vertebral fracture, a herniated disc, an infection, a kidney stone, a tumor, and many others. Lumbar disc herniations are important in this group. Intervertebral discs are anatomical structures located between the vertebrae, which cushion and absorb the shock inherent to our daily activities. The continued degeneration and overload of these structures results in the externalization of their internal core, forming a hernia; The protrusion or hernia can compress nerves originating in the spinal cord, causing low back pain that can radiate to the lower limb; Complementary diagnostic techniques tools currently available, such as magnetic resonance imaging, make it possible to quickly and accurately diagnose herniated discs, thus making it possible to develop personalized treatment plans and guarantee a different approach to each person's problem. Seek medical care Regardless of the type or cause of low back pain, a physical and neurological examination carried out by a doctor is essential to reach a diagnosis. Low back pain does not always have the same characteristics. The most common is to have: Lumbar stiffness, i.e. a feeling of tightness or lack of flexibility in the lower back; Muscle spasms, which are involuntary contractions of the muscles in the lower back, associated with intense discomfort.; Radiating pain, when the discomfort extends beyond the lower back, for example to the hips, buttocks or legs. There are also some warning signs that you need to be aware of, as they can translate into more serious and complex problems. Therefore, be sure to seek medical care when you have low back pain and: Pain is persistent; There is a history of cancer; There was a recent trauma; Medication with corticosteroids for a long time; It is in a child, teenager or young adult; The pain is mainly at night; Have a fever or weight loss Recognizing these warning signs is crucial, as they may be indicative of more serious problems that need quick medical intervention. Author: João Pinheiro Meet the Neurosurgery clinical team at the Hospital da Luz network. The content published in the Health Guide is intended for the general public and is provided for informational and educational purposes only. It does not replace individual medical assessment, diagnosis, or personalized clinical advice from a qualified healthcare professional. The content is produced or reviewed by physicians and other healthcare professionals at Hospital da Luz and is based on the knowledge available at the time of publication or the most recent update, as indicated at the beginning of each item.
