[48F] Experiencing severe intermittent lower left back pain

What might be happening

Based on the information provided, possible causes for your lower left back pain include:

• Muscle or Ligament Strain: Repeated heavy lifting or a sudden awkward movement can strain back muscles and spinal ligaments. If you're in poor physical condition, constant strain on your back can cause painful muscle spasms.

  • Treatment typically involves rest, physical therapy, and over-the-counter pain relievers.

• Kidney Stones or Kidney Infection: These conditions can cause pain in the lower back, usually on one side. The pain is often severe and usually comes and goes.

  • Treatment for kidney stones varies depending on the size of the stone. Small stones can be passed by drinking lots of water, while larger stones may require medical intervention. Kidney infections are typically treated with antibiotics.

• Sciatica: This condition occurs when the sciatic nerve becomes pinched, usually by a herniated disk in your spine. This can cause inflammation, pain and often some numbness in the affected leg.

  • Treatment typically involves physical therapy and pain relievers. In severe cases, surgery may be required.

• Degenerative Disc Disease: This condition occurs when one or more of the discs between the vertebrae of the spinal column deteriorates or breaks down, leading to pain.

  • Treatment typically involves physical therapy, over-the-counter pain relievers, and in some cases, surgery.

What you can do

1. Rest and avoid strenuous activities for a few days.
2. Try over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB, others) or acetaminophen (Tylenol, others).
3. Apply heat or cold to the painful area. Use ice for the first 48 to 72 hours, then use heat.
4. Consult a doctor if the pain does not improve with rest and over-the-counter treatments.

What you should look out for

Seek immediate medical attention if your back pain:

• Causes new bowel or bladder problems
• Is accompanied by fever
• Follows a fall, blow to your back or other injury
• Is severe and doesn't improve with rest
• Spreads down one or both legs, especially if the pain extends below the knee
• Causes weakness, numbness or tingling in one or both legs

Remember, this advice is intended to be general in nature, and specific causes may not apply to your situation. Always consult with a healthcare provider for appropriate examination, diagnosis, and treatment.