Understanding and Managing Lower Back Pain: A Comprehensive Guide.
Understanding and Managing Lower Back Pain: A Comprehensive Guide.

Understanding and Managing Lower Back Pain: A Comprehensive Guide.

By Abigail Hirsch, Phd
May 22, 2023
7 min. read

Introduction:

Lower back pain can make it hard to do everyday things and enjoy life. Many adults experience lower back pain at some point, and it can affect how they live. This guide will help you understand lower back pain, what causes it, and how to treat it. We want to give you the information and tools you need to manage your pain and feel better.

What is Lower Back Pain?

Lower back pain means feeling uncomfortable in the lower part of your back. It can last a short time (acute), a bit longer (subacute), or a really long time (chronic). You might have a dull ache, sharp or throbbing pain, trouble moving your back, stiffness, or difficulty doing activities like bending or lifting.

Causes of Lower Back Pain:

Lower back pain can be divided into two categories: primary pain and secondary pain. Knowing which type of pain you have is important to find the right treatment.

Primary Pain:

  • This type of pain is not caused by a specific injury or problem.
  • It can last a long time and may come and go.
  • Primary pain is often related to how the brain processes pain signals.

Secondary Pain:

  • This type of pain comes from a specific injury or problem in the back.
  • It can last for a shorter time and is usually focused in one area of the lower back.
  • Secondary pain is caused by something physical, like a muscle strain or a problem with a disc in the spine.

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How to Treat Lower Back Pain:

Most cases of lower back pain fall into the primary pain category. To treat this type of pain, we need to focus on the brain and how it processes pain signals. Here are some strategies that can help:

  • Neuroscience: Scientists study how the brain and nervous system affect pain. By understanding this connection, we can find ways to manage pain better.
  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT helps you change negative thoughts related to pain and develop better ways to cope with discomfort.
  • Psychology: Understanding your mental and emotional state is important because it can affect how you experience pain.

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Treatment Program: Lin's program combines different approaches to help you manage primary lower back pain. It includes:

  • Pain Reprocessing Therapy (PRT): This therapy helps the brain "unlearn" its response to pain signals using visualization and changing how we think about pain.
  • Psychophysiologic Symptom Relief Therapy (PSRT): This therapy focuses on the connection between our emotions and physical pain. It teaches relaxation techniques and stress management.
  • Emotional Awareness and Expression Therapy (EAET): This therapy helps you understand and express your emotions, which can help reduce physical pain.
  • Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT): ACT encourages you to accept your reactions, be present, choose a direction, and take action to deal with pain effectively.

By combining these different approaches, Lin's program offers a comprehensive way to manage lower back pain and similar conditions. Remember, with the right guidance and support, you can overcome lower back pain and live a fulfilling life.

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