Pain in the lower back when walking can have several possible causes, ranging from muscle fatigue and poor walking mechanics to conditions affecting the spine or nearby nerves. Understanding the underlying cause can lead to an effective treatment plan.
Our neurologists at Virgin Islands Neurology can use a range of diagnostic tests to accurately determine the cause of lower back pain. They also provide many treatment options to relieve pain. Schedule your appointment today.
You might be experiencing pain in your lower back for many reasons. Below you will find some of the most common causes of lower back pain that can be felt while walking.
There are several possible symptoms that could accompany back pain, depending on the cause. Potential symptoms along with back pain include the following:
Weakness or numbness affecting the legs can warrant medical attention, particularly when symptoms are new or worsening.
Your healthcare provider will begin by considering your medical condition and your symptoms. They will want to know when the symptoms occur and where they are felt.
During a physical examination, they may analyze your strength, movement, and posture. They will also look at your walking patterns. The diagnosis may also involve imaging tests including X-rays or an MRI scan or nerve diagnostics such as electromyography (EMG).
Occasional mild back pain may improve with conservative care. However, if you have persistent or worsening symptoms, you may need to see a doctor for an evaluation.
If you have any of the following symptoms, you may need to see a healthcare provider:
Emergency medical care is required if you experience any of the following symptoms:
The treatment for your lower back pain will depend on the cause and the severity of your condition. Many conditions are initially treated with conservative treatments. If the condition is severe or non-surgical treatments are ineffective, then surgical options may be considered.
Some of the non-surgical treatments for lower back pain include the following:
Hot or cold therapy may help you manage symptoms at home. Cold therapy using an ice pack may be useful after an acute muscle strain. It helps relieve pain and swelling. Heat may help with muscle tightness in the lower back.
It’s important to stay active when you have lower back pain. In order to do so within your comfort level, you may need to modify the activities you do.
A physical therapist can develop targeted exercises based on the cause of the pain. This may include core strengthening exercises and stretching.
Over-the-counter pain relievers and targeted injections may be beneficial for certain sources of back pain.
Surgery is usually decided based on the underlying condition, your symptoms, and overall health. You may be considered for surgery if nonsurgical treatments are no longer providing relief or if you have a structural problem that is causing pain, such as nerve compression.
Recovery from lower back pain varies significantly depending on the cause and treatment required. Acute causes of back pain such as strains and sprains may get better in a short period of time. Chronic back pain may require ongoing management to maintain relief.
Patients with lower back pain should return to normal activities slowly to prevent pain from returning.
There are several things that you can do to prevent lower back pain. Try to incorporate the following tips into your routine:
You don’t have to ignore lower back pain. At Virgin Islands Neurology in the U.S. Virgin Islands, our neurologists can provide a variety of diagnostic tools and treatments to keep you active. Schedule your appointment today.
Lower back pain when walking can have several causes. Common causes include muscle fatigue, strains, poor posture, spinal stenosis, sciatica, and age-related changes such as degenerative disc disease. An evaluation can help determine the underlying cause.
Some conditions, including lumbar spinal stenosis, can cause pain or other symptoms that become worse while standing or walking and improve when sitting or leaning forward. However, this pattern does not necessarily mean that spinal stenosis is the cause, so persistent symptoms should be evaluated.
You should consider seeing a healthcare provider if your pain persists, repeatedly returns, or becomes more severe. Seek emergency medical care for loss of bowel or bladder control or severe or rapidly worsening weakness.
Yes. Physical therapy may help manage lower back pain by improving strength, flexibility, posture, and movement patterns. A physical therapist can recommend targeted exercises based on your symptoms and underlying condition.
In many cases, staying active within your comfort level can be beneficial, but you may need to modify your walking routine. Shorter walks, breaks, proper posture, and supportive footwear may help reduce discomfort. If walking consistently worsens your symptoms, speak with a healthcare provider about the appropriate level of activity.
