What causes pain on both sides of the lower back?

Dec 23, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Chen Jian
Introduction
In general, pain on both sides of the lower back may be caused by poor posture, excessive physical activity, lumbar muscle strain, lumbar disc herniation, scoliosis, or other related factors. If discomfort occurs, timely medical attention is recommended. In daily life, appropriate rest, avoiding excessive fatigue, and physical therapies such as heat application and massage can help relieve muscle tension.

Generally, pain on both sides of the upper lower back may be caused by poor posture, excessive exercise, lumbar muscle strain, lumbar disc herniation, scoliosis, and other factors. If discomfort occurs, timely medical consultation is recommended. Detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Poor Posture

Maintaining improper sitting or standing postures for prolonged periods, especially slouching or hunching, can cause excessive tension in the muscles on both sides of the upper lower back, leading to pain. Improving posture during work and daily activities, along with regular stretching and strengthening exercises for the back muscles, such as yoga or Pilates, can help alleviate this issue.

2. Excessive Exercise

Overexertion during physical activity can cause microscopic damage to muscle fibers, triggering an inflammatory response that may lead to pain. It is important to allow adequate rest periods and avoid repetitive movements that may cause further injury.

3. Lumbar Muscle Strain

Chronic repetitive movements involving the lower back or overuse of the lumbar muscles can result in lumbar muscle strain. This condition typically presents as pain on both sides of the upper lower back, which may worsen with activity and improve with rest. It may also be accompanied by muscle stiffness and tightness. Treatment may include medications such as ibuprofen tablets, acetaminophen tablets, and Wujin Huoxue Zhitong capsules, under the guidance of a physician.

4. Lumbar Disc Herniation

Lumbar disc herniation may be related to injury or degeneration and can compress nerve roots, causing lower back pain. Symptoms may also include numbness, tingling sensations, and muscle weakness in the lower limbs. Treatment options may include medications such as celecoxib capsules, mecobalamin tablets, and oryzanol tablets, as advised by a physician.

5. Scoliosis

Scoliosis may be caused by genetic factors or neuromuscular dysfunction. The curvature of the spine leads to uneven force distribution, potentially causing pain on both sides of the upper lower back. Additional symptoms may include muscle soreness and fatigue. Under medical guidance, wearing a brace with specific design and materials can provide external spinal support, helping to maintain the spine in the correct position.

In daily life, adequate rest and avoiding excessive fatigue are important. Physical therapies such as heat application and massage may help relieve muscle tension.