It’s not all that uncommon to have lower back pain (LBP). In fact, it’s the leading reason for work-related disability. But not all back pain is created equal. Some lower (lumbar) back pain literally becomes more of a pain when you sit, get up, or bend. Today, let’s take a closer look at why you may be experiencing severe lower back pain when sitting or bending—and what you can do about it.
Axial Back Pain
This is localized back pain felt within the area that’s affected. You may experience this type of discomfort if you bend too far or twist your back while bending. However, it can also be chronic, or long-lasting. Symptoms associated with axial back pain include:
• Severe LBP triggered by slight movements, such as sitting or bending
• Discomfort resulting from minimal pressure on your lower back
• A persistent ache always felt in your lower back area
Axial back pain is more likely to be chronic if there’s an underlying cause. Common culprits include age-worn or herniated discs, damage to spinal (facet) joints, and problems with the sacroiliac (SI) joints in the pelvic area. LBP that becomes worse when sitting and better when standing could be related to a herniated disc. If your pain is debilitating or lingers for an extended period, talk to your doctor or a Los Angeles spine surgeon.
Overactive Trunk Muscles
Chronic lower back pain could also be due to the overexertion or activation of muscles within the middle and lower part of your body (trunk). Tasks that may result in excessive trunk muscle strain and related lower back pain include:
• Sitting and/or standing
• Going up stairs
• Bending while picking up or putting down an object
Tailbone Pain
If you’re involuntarily leaning to one side as you sit to avoid placing direct pressure on your backside, you may have tailbone pain (coccydynia). This type of LBP usually occurs due to some type of trauma. In women, this could include childbirth. If your lower back pain is due to coccydynia, you’ll notice immediate relief when you stand up. Sitting on hard surfaces could also make your discomfort worse. Leaning partially backward as you sit may also increase your pain.
Sacral Tumors
In rare instances, pain that gets worse when sitting or rising to a standing position may be due to an abnormal growth in the lower portion of the spine (sacrum). There are different types of tumors that can develop in this area, but the most common ones are sacral chondrosarcoma tumors. Symptoms related to sacral tumors may include:
• General lower back pain
• Pain when sitting
• Sciatic nerve pain as the tumor grows
• Urinary tract infections
• Issues with bowel or bladder functions
If you have severe or recurring lower back pain when sitting or bending, it’s best to find out why. Even if a specific source isn’t found, you may still benefit from treatment, which might include massage therapy, therapeutic exercises, over-the-counter and prescription medications, and injections containing anti-inflammatory solutions. Improving your posture, stretching before working out or playing sports, and using proper lifting techniques can be beneficial as well.
Depending on what’s causing your lower back pain, it can be treated in a variety of ways.
At The Spine Institute, we specialize in minimally invasive fusion and non-fusion procedures, such as artificial disc replacement and back fusion alternatives. Los Angeles patients can rely on our team of spine health experts to determine the best way to prevent back pain and treat all types of spinal issues. Call one of our friendly staff members today at 310-828-7757 to schedule a consultation.