In this article, we take a closer look at the possible causes of low back pain in women and what we can do to relieve it. Let's see the article, Ladies!
Causes of low back pain in women
1. Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)
PMS is a condition experienced by many women before menstruation. The symptoms include physical symptoms, such as:
- Lower back pain
- Headache
- Fatigue
- Bloating
As well as emotional and behavioral symptoms, such as:
- Mood swings
- Food cravings
- Anxiety
- Difficulty concentrating
PMS usually begins a few days before a period and ends within a day or two after the period starts.
2. Premenstrual dysmorphic disorder (PMDD)
PMDD is a more severe form of PMS, in which the symptoms significantly interfere with daily life. Fewer women experience PMDD than PMS.
The emotional, behavioral, and physical symptoms of PMDD are similar to those of PMS. However, all types of symptoms may be worse. Symptoms usually start a week before the period and end a few days after the period begins.
3. Endometriosis
Endometriosis is a condition in which the tissue that lines the uterus, known as endometrial tissue, grows outside the uterus, such as the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and other tissues that line the pelvis. It may even grow around the urinary tract and intestines.
Pain is the most common symptom of endometriosis. Other symptoms include:
- Very painful menstrual cramps
- Pain during or after sex
- Lower back and pelvic pain
- Pain when defecating or urinating during menstruation.
Endometriosis can also cause bleeding or spotting between menstrual periods. Digestive problems such as bloating and diarrhea are common, especially during menstruation. Endometriosis can also make the chances of getting pregnant smaller.
4. Dysmenorrhea
Very painful menstruation is known as dysmenorrhea. While usually manageable, it can be very severe in some people.
Pain from dysmenorrhea is usually felt in the lower abdomen, lower back, hips, and legs. This pain lasts for 1 to 3 days. The pain can be dull with a lot of aches, or it may feel like a shooting pain.
5. Pregnancy
Back pain is common during pregnancy. This happens because the center of gravity shifts, weight gain, and hormones are released to relax the ligaments in preparation for birth.
Back pain occurs between the fifth and seventh months of pregnancy for most women, but it can start much earlier. You are more likely to experience back pain during pregnancy if you have had lower back problems before.
The most common places to experience pain are just below the waist and at the tailbone. However, it is also possible to feel pain in the middle of the back, around the waist. This pain can spread to the feet.
How to relieve lower back pain
If your back pain is caused by conditions related to your menstrual periods or muscle strain, you may want to try the following home remedies for lower back pain relief:
1. Heating pad.
Heating pads placed on the back can improve circulation, allowing nutrients and oxygen to enter the muscles in the back.
2. Take a warm shower.
A warm bath can improve circulation and reduce muscle soreness and stiffness.
3. Take over-the-counter painkillers.
Over-the-counter non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen and aspirin can help relieve back pain and other types of pain associated with menstruation.
4. Physical activity.
Staying active can improve circulation and relieve tight muscles.
5. Light stretching.
Regular stretching can help reduce low back pain or prevent it from coming back.
6. Ice pack.
If your back pain is caused by muscle strain or injury, ice packs can help reduce inflammation, pain, and bruising. Ice packs work best within the first 48 hours of a muscle strain or injury.
7. Use pillows.
Placing a pillow between your knees if you sleep on your side or under your knees if you sleep on your back can help relieve back pain and discomfort.
8. Use lumbar support.
Using a chair with good lumbar support can help relieve back pain when sitting.
Treatment for low back pain depends on the underlying cause. In most cases, home remedies are sufficient for pain relief. However, if your back pain does not improve or gets worse, it is a good idea to visit your doctor for further diagnosis and treatment. You can also discuss your condition with the doctors at Fitie!
Read on for other health articles only on Fitie!
Source:
Hersh, E. & Weatherspoon, D. (2020). What Can Cause Lower Back Pain in Women?. Healthline. [online]. https://www.healthline.com/health/lower-back-pain-causes-female