Back Pain In The Lower Left Side - Causes and How To avoid It

Many People the world over suffer form back pain in the lower left side. This article discusses the common causes, and how to avoid back pain in the lower left side.

Back pain of the lower left side can be caused by a number of problems, including intestinal issues such as Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), muscular imbalance, kidney stones, excessive or improper exercise, incorrect lifting, pregnancy, obesity, or a misaligned spine.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome

IBS is a condition resulting in diarrhea and vomiting, often caused by allergies to such foods as wheat gluten. A medical professional would likely recommend avoiding those foods, bringing some relief. IBS, associated with Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, can strike suddenly but is manageable. In many cases, Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis are the result of prescription medication, such as Fosamax. Fosamax is a prescription drug used to treat osteoporosis and Paget’s disease.

Kidney Stones

Lower left back pain can also be caused by kidney stones. If this is the case, it will likely be accompanied with difficult urination and possible blood in the urine. This condition is easily diagnosable by a medical professional. Your doctor can determine the most efficient way to remove them, depending on their location. In some cases, merely allowing the time to let them pass is sufficient. In extreme cases, however, laser technology has been used to shatter the stones, allowing for easier passage.

Muscular Imbalance

Muscular imbalance can lead to back pain on the lower left side. Muscular imbalance has many causes, probably one of the most common being a pulled muscle. This can result in pain in other parts of the body, including the spine and the intestines. In some cases, pain on the right side ensues as the right side begins working harder, attempting to compensate for the injured left side. Common treatment is specialized exercises, occasionally accompanied by muscle relaxers and painkillers to allow for the accomplishment of the exercises. Serious damage, however, may require surgery. Another way to reduce inflammation and increase circulation, contributing to a faster recover, is to alternate hot and cold compresses on the area. The lower left back pain will persist until the muscles return to normal.

Pregnancy

Pregnancy is a common cause of lower left back pain. Fetal development, resulting in uterus expansion, shifts the center of gravity and weakens the stomach muscles. This significantly increases the strain on the lower back. The added weight of both the fetus and any associated weight gain contributes as well. This increase can cause pinched nerves, adding to the possible sources of pain. Unfortunately, this will likely continue over the course of the pregnancy and will only see a "permanent" cure upon birth. It might help to sleep on your side with a pillow between your legs.

Avoiding Lower Left Back Pain

Much back pain can be avoided merely by maintaining an appropriate diet and exercise regimen. Correct lifting techniques and exercises performance are also important. Back problems tend to start small, but can become serious if ignored. Be sure to see a licensed medical professional if the pain persists for more than a few days. A diagnosis can be important, allowing you to seek appropriate treatment and therapy as quickly as possible.