What Causes Lower Back Pain?

Athletes have higher risks for suffering from moderate to severe lower back pain because of the movements that their spine, hips and entire back have to undergo during practices. Fortunately, the frequency, severity and duration of lower back pain can be reduced with the application of the right knowledge and skills about your body.

#1 Intervertebral Discs

The intervertebral discs are remarkably strong structures that act as shock absorbers for the spine. But the discs can suffer from ordinary wear and tear as well as sudden and severe force, such as lifting heavy items.
Physical activity is essential for disc health in two ways, namely:

• It causes the disc to be filled with water, which is then squeezed out like a sponge; and
• It maintains the normal exchange of fluids in the spine, thus, reducing the swelling around an injured disc.

For this reason, athletes are always strongly advised to seek medical attention when an injured disc is suspected. Call any of the Healthpointe clinics (such as the Corona clinic, near Norco, Home Gardens, Mira Loma, and Pedley) ASAP.

#2 Muscles, Tendons and Ligaments in the Spine

With the decreased activity, the collective soft tissues surrounding the spine also begin to degenerate. The tendons and ligaments begin to stick to each other, lose their resilience, and tear with the application of sudden overload. Fortunately, the soft tissues can quickly repair themselves.

#3 Nerves in the Spine

Nerves that have been irritated result in muscles that cannot normally function. For example, when the L4-L5 nerve root is pressed by a herniated disc, the ankle and foot cannot work as well as expected (i.e., an inability to perform a ‘foot drop’).

If you suffer from lower back pain, your doctor will look into these three structures for answers.

Call any of the Healthpointe clinics (such as the Colton clinic, near Rialto, Bloomington, San Bernardino, Loma Linda, Highgrove, and Grand Terrace) for concerns about your spine and its health.

About Healthpointe:

Healthpointe is a leading multidisciplinary healthcare organization offering a full range of medical services in practice locations throughout Southern California (Los Angeles County, Orange County, San Bernardino County, and Riverside County). Healthpointe has locations situated in over 10 cities in Southern California including Colton, which is conveniently located by Rialto, Bloomington, San Bernardino, Loma Linda, Highgrove, and Grand Terrace. As a highly regarded musculoskeletal group, we have a personal investment in the highest level of service, and we are proud of our record of excellence over the last four decades with private patients, injured workers, urgent care, personal injuries, and professional and non-professional athletes. Leading our organization is a dynamic team of healthcare professionals who continually strive to be at the forefront of medical innovation and healthcare service delivery. For more information, a complete list of services, and Healthpointe locations, visit Healthpointe.net.