Low back pain

Low back pain is a significant health and economic burden, ranking as the primary cause of disability in individuals under forty-five and the third leading cause in those over forty-five. It is characterized by discomfort below the ribcage and above the buttocks, with or without accompanying leg pain, typically stemming from muscle or soft tissue strain. Occasionally, the intervertebral discs may become strained, leading to bulging and nerve compression. Low back pain is categorized as acute (lasting less than six weeks), sub-acute (lasting six to twelve weeks), or chronic (persisting beyond twelve weeks). It manifests as various types of pain triggered by aggravated Vata Dosha. Typically, the pain is localized to the lower back and sacroiliac region, attributed to Vyana Vata imbalance, which depletes Kapha in the joints, causing friction. If pain arises from trauma, it can stem from injury to both the joint and the nearby structures. Typically, pain doesn't radiate to the lower limb, but in some cases of specific low back disorders, it might, especially when there's an issue with the intervertebral discs affecting a nerve root. Low back pain causes can be categorized into common and uncommon factors. Common causes include poor posture, heavy physical labor, psychosocial influences, unhealthy work environments and habits, smoking, substance abuse, osteoporosis, and obesity.

In ayurveda low back pain is treated as Katigraha and Grdhrasi if back pain associated with radiating pain and numbness in legs. The primary goal in treating low back pain is to alleviate pain and stiffness while halting the degenerative process and preventing recurrence. To avoid recurrence, it's crucial to steer clear of factors that trigger low back pain, such as excessive travel, heavy lifting, and poor posture, as they can exacerbate the condition or increase the likelihood of a second episode. Additionally, it's important to avoid dietary and lifestyle habits that aggravate Vata. Lifestyle changes play a significant role in both preventing and managing low back pain, with smoking cessation being a particularly important intervention. Certain yoga poses are also beneficial for strengthening the back muscles and relieving strain. Treatments like Kati vasti, Spinal pichu, traction and certain ayurvedic massages has tremendous results in managing low back pain.