Back pain is a prevalent issue affecting many people today, characterized by a persistent dull or sharp discomfort in the lower back, sometimes accompanied by burning, stiffness, numbness, or tingling that can radiate down the buttocks and legs. Surveys indicate that up to 70% of individuals will experience low back pain at some point in their lives, with the highest rates occurring in those aged 25 to 64. Women are more frequently affected by this condition.

While not everyone will suffer from back pain, it is a common experience for many. Initially, back pain might be mild and improve with rest, but it can evolve into more severe symptoms such as leg pain, numbness, or weakness. This progression can potentially lead to more serious issues, such as a slipped disc. It is important to address back pain early to prevent further complications and avoid reliance on surgery or painkillers.

Back Pain Causes

Back pain can often be attributed to mechanical issues such as strained muscles and ligaments, lack of exercise or a sedentary lifestyle, and prolonged or frequent bending. Other causes include a ruptured or bulging disk in the spine, sciatica due to a herniated disk pressing on a nerve, arthritis, and abnormal curvature of the spine. Poor posture or slouched sitting, sitting or standing for long hours, and sleeping on a mattress that does not provide adequate support can also contribute to back pain. Additionally, wearing wrong or poor footwear and various other factors may play a role.

Most Common Symptoms of Back Pain Neglected by People

Back pain that persists despite rest, pain radiating to the legs or below the knee, and a recent injury, blow, or trauma to the back are significant symptoms. Difficulty in performing daily tasks, inflammation (swelling) on the back, and pain extending down the legs or reaching below the knees are also noteworthy. Other symptoms include urinary incontinence (peeing unintentionally), difficulty urinating, fecal incontinence (losing bowel control), and numbness around the genitals or anus.

Ayurveda for Back Pain Treatment

In Ayurveda, back pain is referred to as Kateegraham and is believed to arise from vata dosha and imperfect digestion, with toxins in the body also contributing. Treatment may involve taking mahayograja guggul for spinal issues. If the pain causes weakness in the arms and legs, patients are advised to consume ekangveer rasa tablet along with mahayograj guggul for a week and then massage their back with mahamashataila. A 10-day massage with mahanarayan oil combined with a steam bath is also recommended.

For those with vata dosha, it is crucial to stay warm and wear appropriate clothing during winter, consume warm foods, and avoid spicy or frozen foods. Daily practice of padahastasan yoga in the morning is beneficial as it helps reduce vata dosha and eliminate constipation. Following this, practicing anuloma-viloma for at least 10 minutes can be helpful. Drinking an infusion of ajwain, jeera, and ginger regularly may also provide relief.

The Top 5 Natural Remedies for Back Pain

• Reduce weight, particularly around the middle, as excess weight strains the spine and muscles.
• Sit in a hot water tub for 10 minutes, adding some salt to the water to help soothe the back.
• Use hot and cold compresses: Apply warmed massage oil (like sesame or mustard oil) to the back, optionally with added herbs, then massage the lower back.
• Increase consumption of ginger and garlic, which can help reduce inflammation.
• Maintain an erect spine while sitting and provide support by placing a pillow behind the lower back.

Top 10 Therapies Commonly Used for Back Pain Relief

• Abhyangam
• Kati basti
• Pizhichil
• Sneha basti
• Kashaya basti
• Upanaha (medicinal poultice)
• Dhanyamla dhara (pouring of fermented medicated liquid)
• Patra potli sweda
• Navara kizhi
• Marma chikitsa