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What is chronic lower back pain?

Chronic lower back pain is defined as pain persisting for over 12 weeks—even after the initial injury or underlying cause has healed. It can be localized or radiate to the legs, often leading to stiffness, reduced mobility, and a significant drop in quality of life.

Common causes

• Muscle or ligament strain from repeated heavy lifting or awkward posture
• Degenerative disc disease where spinal discs deteriorate, leading to pain and stiffness
• Herniated or bulging discs pressing on nerve roots
• Arthritis such as osteoarthritis, causing joint inflammation and narrowing of the spinal canal (spinal stenosis)
• Structural abnormalities, like scoliosis or spondylolisthesis

Symptoms to watch for

• Persistent aching or sharp pain in the lower back
• Pain that worsens after sitting or standing for long periods
• Numbness or tingling radiating into legs
• Weakness in the lower limbs

Diagnosis & evaluation

Diagnosis begins with your medical history and physical exam. Imaging such as X‑rays, MRI, or CT scans helps assess disc conditions, spinal alignment, and nerve involvement. EMG or nerve conduction studies may help in complex cases.

Treatment options

• Conservative management: Includes rest, physical therapy, strengthening exercises, posture correction, and weight management.
• Medications: NSAIDs, muscle relaxants, or neuropathic pain agents.
• Minimally invasive procedures: Epidural steroid injections or nerve blocks for targeted relief.
• Surgical options: For persistent cases involving structural issues—e.g., microdiscectomy for disc herniation, spinal fusion, or laminectomy in spinal stenosis.

Role of spine surgery

When non‑surgical methods fail, or when structural problems are significant, spine surgery becomes a key option. Modern techniques are minimally invasive, reducing recovery time and complications.

Dr. Sridhar Jakkepally’s expertise

Dr. Sridhar Jakkepally is a leading spine surgeon with extensive experience managing degenerative spine conditions, disc herniations, and spinal stenosis. Practicing at ONUS Hospitals and People’s Hospitals, Pragathi Nagar, he leads a multidisciplinary team—neurologists, radiologists, physiotherapists—to offer personalized, evidence‑based treatment plans. His practice emphasizes minimally invasive spine surgery and post‑operative rehabilitation.

Prevention & lifestyle tips

• Maintain good posture
• Strengthen core and back muscles
• Practice safe lifting techniques
• Keep a healthy weight
• Stay active with low‑impact exercises like walking and swimming

Frequently Asked Questions for Chronic Lower Back Pain

1. What are the most common reasons for chronic lower back pain?
   Muscle strain, herniated discs, spinal arthritis, and degenerative disc disease.
2. When should I worry about lower back pain?
   If it lasts more than 6 weeks, radiates to your legs, or is associated with numbness or weakness.
3. Can chronic back pain be managed without surgery?
   Yes, many cases respond to physical therapy, medications, and lifestyle changes.
4. What role does posture play in chronic back pain?
   Poor posture is a leading cause; it puts extra stress on spinal muscles and discs.
5. How can Dr. Sridhar Jakkepally help with persistent back pain?
   He offers personalized diagnosis and advanced surgical or non-surgical treatments at ONUS & People’s Hospitals.