Aaaaahhhh! My back!

Lower back pain (LBP) is a challenge that individuals will experience sometime over their lifetime. The diagnosis can be complicated since the pain may result from, among others, damage to the intervertebral discs, compression of nerve roots, improper movement of the spinal joints and the consequences of aging. 

Research studies by Shipton (2018) and Pretorious (2019) indicate that the prevalence of lower back pain (LBP) have increased over the years and is one of the leading causes of limited activity, lack of fitness and ultimately reduced productivity, incapacitation and disability. 

The lower back consists of five large vertebrae, called the lumbar spine, which is surrounded by muscles, tendons, and ligaments that all provide crucial support. The weight of the upper body is supported by the lower back which consists of a collection of interconnecting bones, joints, nerves, ligaments and muscles that provide the necessary support, strength and flexibility. 

The lower back provides the mobility associated with bending and twisting and supports a wide range of motions of the upper body. The muscles in the lower back support the spinal column, flex and rotate the hips while walking. The nerves supply sensation and power the muscles in the pelvis, legs, and feet. Accordingly, the lower back is susceptible to injury and pain and the result of which could be debilitating. 

Non-specific lower back pain usually does not have a specific nociceptive cause and therefore the pain is non-specific. To this end, Morris, Daniels and Granguli (2018) research into the prevalence of non-specific LBP in Africa suggest that LBP as a common health problem, is one of the most prevalent musculoskeletal condition found among developed and developing nations.