Lower back pain is one of the most common health complaints worldwide. From desk workers and manual laborers to athletes and new parents, nearly everyone will experience some form of lower back discomfort in their lifetime. But while it’s widespread, back pain is never “normal” and should never be ignored especially when it affects your ability to move, sleep, or function day to day.
At Erdem Hospital, we’ve spent more than 37 years supporting patients with musculoskeletal and neurological concerns. Whether your pain is sudden or chronic, mild or severe, our goal is to help you understand the cause and find a solution that works for you.
What Is Lower Back Pain?
Lower back pain typically refers to discomfort in the lumbar region the five vertebrae located between the rib cage and the pelvis. This area bears much of the body’s weight and plays a key role in movement and posture. When this region is strained or irritated, pain may occur locally or radiate to the hips, buttocks, or legs.
Pain can be:
- Acute (lasting a few days or weeks)
- Subacute (lasting 4–12 weeks)
- Chronic (lasting more than 12 weeks)
Common Causes of Lower Back Pain
Understanding the source of your pain is key to effective treatment. While some causes are mechanical and lifestyle-related, others may stem from more serious health conditions.
1. Muscle Strain or Overuse
Sudden movements, heavy lifting, or poor posture can strain muscles and ligaments in the lower back. This is one of the most common causes and is typically self-limiting.
2. Disc Problems
Between each vertebra are discs that cushion and support movement. With age or injury, these discs can bulge (herniated disc) or degenerate, putting pressure on nearby nerves and causing radiating pain.
3. Poor Posture and Sedentary Lifestyle
Spending long hours sitting especially without proper back support can weaken muscles and contribute to chronic discomfort.
4. Osteoarthritis and Degenerative Conditions
As we age, joints and discs may wear down, leading to stiffness, inflammation, and pain. In some cases, bone spurs may develop, narrowing the spinal canal (spinal stenosis).
5. Sciatica
When the sciatic nerve is compressed, pain may radiate from the lower back into the leg, often described as sharp or burning. This is usually caused by a herniated disc or spinal narrowing.
6. Other Medical Conditions
Infections, kidney stones, endometriosis, or even tumors can also manifest as lower back pain. That’s why a thorough medical assessment is important if symptoms persist.
When Should You See a Doctor?
Not all back pain needs medical treatment. But you should consult a healthcare provider if you experience:
- Pain lasting more than a few weeks
- Severe or worsening symptoms
- Numbness or tingling in the legs
- Loss of bladder or bowel control
- Pain after an accident or fall
- Difficulty standing or walking
At Erdem Hospital, our orthopedic and neurology teams work closely to evaluate each patient’s condition using tools like MRI, CT scans, X-rays, and physical assessments.
Effective Treatments for Lower Back Pain
The best treatment depends on the root cause. In many cases, a combination of therapies brings the best results.
1. Physical Therapy
Targeted exercises can strengthen core muscles, improve flexibility, and reduce recurrence. Posture training is also a key component.
2. Pain Management
Short-term use of anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs), muscle relaxants, or local heat/cold applications can relieve symptoms.
3. Manual Therapies
Chiropractic adjustments, osteopathy, or massage may offer relief for some patients, especially when pain is linked to muscular tension or alignment issues.
4. Minimally Invasive Interventions
For persistent pain, procedures like epidural steroid injections or nerve blocks may reduce inflammation around spinal nerves.
5. Surgical Options
In rare cases where conservative treatments fail, or in the presence of significant structural damage, surgery such as a discectomy or spinal fusion may be considered.
At Erdem Hospital, all interventions are guided by imaging, functional testing, and patient-specific goals. Our multidisciplinary team including orthopedists, neurosurgeons, physiotherapists, and pain specialists works together to provide safe, tailored care.
Your Back Deserves Better
Lower back pain doesn’t just affect your body it interferes with how you live your life. From missed work and poor sleep to reduced mobility and emotional stress, its impact can be far-reaching.
The good news? Most causes of back pain are treatable, especially with early intervention. Whether you need a targeted exercise program, diagnostics, or expert surgical care, Erdem Hospital is here to help you move freely again.
With 37 years of expertise in musculoskeletal health, we believe in healing not just symptoms, but people.
Let’s get you back to doing what you love pain-free.