The Musculoskeletal System

Lesson 1: Disease and Disorders of the Musculoskeletal System
Section III: Specific Musculoskeletal Diseases

1-14

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1-14. LOW BACK PAIN

Pain that occurs in the low lumbar, lumbosacral, or sacroiliac region of the back is all termed low back pain.

a. Cause of Low Back Pain. Causes include the following:

(1) Degenerative joint disease of the lumbosacral area.

 

(2) Ruptured discs in the spinal column.

 

(3) Fractures, infection, and tumors of the back, pelvis, or retroperitoneum.

 

(4) Traumatic ligament rupture.

 

(5) Muscle tears.

 

(6) Congenital defects.

 

(7) Obesity.

 

(8) Pregnancy.

b. Treatment of Low Back Pain. Included are the following:

(1) Muscle relaxants such as methocarbamol (Robaxin®).

 

(2) Local heat on the affected area.

 

(3) Aspirin.

 

(4) Bed rest.

 

(5) Lumbosacral corset.

 

(6) Physical therapy.

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