K.N.O.W. Home Health - LOW BACK PAIN

Patient Education: Low Back Pain

What It Is

Low back pain means you feel pain or discomfort in the lower part of your back. It is very common and can be caused by many things, like muscle strain or problems with the spine.

Causes and Risk Factors

Muscle strain from heavy lifting, sudden movements, or poor posture
Aging and wear and tear on the spine
Herniated discs or slipped discs
Poor posture or sitting for long times
Being overweight
Lack of exercise or weak muscles
Stress and tension
Smoking

Signs and Symptoms

Early warning signs:

Dull or sharp pain in the lower back
Stiffness or trouble moving
Muscle spasms

Other symptoms:

Pain that spreads to the buttocks or legs (sciatica)
Numbness or tingling in legs or feet
Weakness in legs (in severe cases)

Complications if Untreated or Noncompliant

Chronic (long-lasting) pain
Reduced ability to do daily activities
Muscle weakness or nerve damage (rare)
Poor posture and movement habits that make pain worse

Treatment and Self-Care Measures

Rest for a short time, but avoid long bed rest
Gentle exercises and stretching
Use heat or cold packs to reduce pain and swelling
Physical therapy to strengthen muscles
Pain medicines as prescribed
Maintain good posture
Avoid heavy lifting or sudden movements

Common Medications, Purpose, and Side Effects

Pain relievers (acetaminophen, NSAIDs like ibuprofen) reduce pain and inflammation. Side effects: stomach upset, bleeding with long-term NSAIDs.
Muscle relaxants may help with spasms. Side effects: drowsiness, dizziness.
Topical creams can provide local pain relief. Side effects: skin irritation.
Stronger medications like opioids are rarely used and only short-term due to risk of dependence.

Dietary Needs

Maintain a healthy weight to reduce strain on your back
Eat a balanced diet with fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
Stay hydrated

Lifestyle Changes

Stay active with regular exercise
Practice good posture while sitting, standing, and lifting
Avoid smoking
Use ergonomic furniture and tools when possible
Manage stress through relaxation techniques

Safety Considerations

Use proper body mechanics when lifting or bending
Avoid activities that cause pain
Be careful to prevent falls or injuries
Follow medication instructions carefully

Prevention and Maintenance Tips

Exercise regularly to strengthen back and core muscles
Take breaks to stretch when sitting long periods
Maintain a healthy weight
Wear comfortable, supportive shoes
Use proper lifting techniques

When to Call for Help

Call Home Health Nurse or Doctor if:

Pain worsens or does not improve after a few days of self-care
You have numbness, tingling, or weakness in legs
You have trouble controlling your bladder or bowels
New symptoms like fever or unexplained weight loss appear

Call 911 or Go to Emergency Room if:

Sudden loss of bladder or bowel control
Severe weakness or paralysis in legs
Severe trauma to back (e.g., fall or accident)
Severe pain with chest pain or shortness of breath

Low Back Pain — True/False Quiz

Instructions: For each statement, write True or False. If the statement is false, please correct it to make it true.

___ Low back pain only happens to older adults.
___ Muscle strain is a common cause of low back pain.
___ Sitting for long periods can contribute to low back pain.
___ Pain that spreads to the leg may be a sign of sciatica.
___ Numbness or weakness in the legs should be reported to a doctor.
___ Long bed rest is the best treatment for low back pain.
___ Heat or cold packs can help reduce pain and swelling.
___ Physical therapy can strengthen muscles to prevent future pain.
___ Pain medicines have no side effects.
___ Maintaining a healthy weight can help reduce back pain.
___ Poor posture does not affect low back pain.
___ Smoking can make low back pain worse.
___ You should avoid all physical activity if you have low back pain.
___ Using proper lifting techniques can prevent back injuries.
___ You should call the doctor if you have trouble controlling your bladder.
___ Strong opioids are usually the first choice for treating low back pain.
___ Stress and tension can contribute to muscle pain in the back.
___ Wearing supportive shoes helps with back pain.
___ You should ignore new symptoms like fever or weight loss when you have low back pain.
___ Exercises and stretches can help improve low back pain.

ASSESSMENT of WELL-BEING INDIVIDUALIZED PATIENT HOMEWORK

Individualizing Learning

What activities seem to make your low back pain worse?
Have you tried any treatments or exercises so far? What helped?
Are you currently taking any medications for your pain? Have you experienced side effects?
How is your posture during daily activities like sitting, standing, and sleeping?
Do you have any numbness, tingling, or weakness in your legs?
Have you had any recent injuries or falls?
How much physical activity or exercise do you do each week?
Do you smoke or use tobacco products?
Have you noticed any changes in your bladder or bowel control?
Do you have any other medical conditions like arthritis or diabetes?
What kind of support do you have at home to help with your daily activities?
Are you aware of proper body mechanics for lifting and bending?
How often do you take breaks to stretch if you sit for long periods?
Have you been referred to physical therapy or other specialists?
What questions or concerns do you have about your low back pain or treatment plan?