Lumbar flattening is an orthopedic problem in which the correct alignment of the discs and vertebral bones in the spine (spinal) region is lost. This condition occurs as a result of deterioration of the anatomical structure in the spine. It can cause pain in the lumbar region, limitation of movement and a decrease in quality of life.
Lumbar flattening often leads to chronic pain in the lumbar region. This pain can worsen over time and interfere with daily activities. It can also cause back pain, limited mobility, loss of sensation and muscle weakness. In advanced cases, serious problems such as urinary incontinence or loss of bowel control can occur.
Causes of Low Back Flattening
It is a condition in which the natural curvature of the vertebrae in the lumbar region (lower back) that should normally be present is lost. This can occur for many different reasons. Some of the causes of low back flattening:
Poor posture and inactivity: Long-term poor posture and inactivity can lead to this condition. Sitting for a long time, especially in desk jobs, or sitting improperly can trigger this condition.
Being Overweight: Excess weight can cause this condition to occur. Extra weight puts extra strain on the spine and can cause the natural curves to disappear.
Aging: With the aging process, the discs and connective tissues of the spine change and weaken over time.
Injuries and Trauma: Injuries or trauma to the lower back can cause damage to the spinal cord or discs.
Genetic Factors: Family history can increase the risk of this condition. Genetic predisposition can cause the structure of the spine to be prone to low back flattening.
Muscle Weakness: Weak abdominal and back muscles can cause problems in supporting the spine.
Inflammatory Rheumatic Diseases: Inflammatory rheumatic diseases, such as ankylosing spondylitis, can affect spinal curves.
Congenital Anomalies: Congenital spinal anomalies or deformities can increase the susceptibility to a flat back.
Symptoms of Low Back Flattening
Lumbar flattening is an orthopedic problem in which the alignment of the vertebral discs or vertebral bones in the lumbar region is disturbed. Symptoms can vary from person to person and can vary depending on the severity of the flattening, which discs are affected and the degree of pressure on the nerve roots. Some of the symptoms of low back flattening:
Low Back Pain: It can cause chronic low back pain, which is the most common symptom. This pain can worsen over time and interfere with daily activities.
Back Pain: Back pain is another symptom of a flattened spine. Back pain can be felt due to pressure and stress on the spine.
Limitation of Movement: It can put pressure on the spinal cord or nerve roots, which can lead to restricted movement. Pain and limitation can be felt especially during bending and turning movements.
Sensory and Muscle Weakness: If it presses on the nerve roots, problems such as numbness, tingling and muscle weakness in the legs or feet may occur.
Advanced Cases: In advanced cases, serious problems such as urinary incontinence or loss of bowel control can occur. These conditions require urgent medical attention.
How is a flat back treated?
Treatment for a flat back may involve different methods, depending on the patient's symptoms, the severity of the condition and other personal factors. Treatment may include one or a combination of several of the following methods:
Medication: For pain, doctors usually prescribe medications such as painkillers, anti-inflammatory drugs or muscle relaxants. These medications can help relieve pain and reduce inflammation.
Physical Therapy: Physical therapy is an important part of treating this condition. Physical therapists teach patients specialized treatment methods such as exercises, posture correction and spinal support techniques. These exercises can strengthen the spinal muscles and relieve lower back pain.
Injection Therapies: Injection therapies, such as epidural steroid injections, can be used to relieve pain. These injections contain steroid medication that is injected into the spinal area to reduce inflammation and manage pain.
Surgical Intervention: If medications, physical therapy and other conservative treatment methods are insufficient to relieve symptoms or if there is severe pressure on the nerve roots, surgical intervention may be considered. Surgical options may include procedures such as discectomy (partial or complete removal of the disc), laminectomy (widening of the spinal canal) or spinal fusion (fixation of the vertebrae). Surgical treatment can relieve the pain and symptoms caused by a flat back.
Alternative Treatment Methods: Some patients may choose to try alternative treatment methods such as massage therapy, acupuncture, chiropractic treatment or yoga. However, there may not be conclusive scientific evidence on the effectiveness of these methods, so it is important to consult a doctor.
What can be done to prevent a flat lower back?
The following measures can be taken to prevent low back flattening:
- Maintain correct posture.
- Avoid prolonged sitting.
- Use the right techniques for heavy lifting.
- Exercise regularly.
- Maintain a healthy weight.