What Causes Stiffness And Throbbing Pain In Lower Back?

Posted on Mon, 14 Mar 2016

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Mon, 14 Mar 2016 Answered on

Thu, 19 May 2016 Last reviewed on

Question : I have lower back stiffness, sometimes worse than others. Uncomfortable, but not excruciating. I was diagnosed with arthritis in that area. Heating pad seems to help. Recently after a brisk walk I noticed a stiffening in the left flank. When I try to lay down it hurts. Not a sharp throbbing pain, but a feeling of stretching. Very tight, to the point I have to get up. Prior to this happening I noticed a sharp pain in the same lower flank, like a spasm, that lasts just a second or two. Could this be from the arthritis, or a muscle strain from the brisk walk? Would Naproxen help?

Answered by Dr. Nishad BN (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
Could be muscle strain most likely.

Detailed Answer:
Hi

Thank you for asking HCM

I have gone through your query. Your problem of sharp pain and spasm is most likely from muscle strain. In such case Naproxen helps. You can apply heating pads or hot fomentations. Applying dicloenac or ketoprofen gel also will be helpful. If no improvement then prescription muscle relaxants like Tizanidine will be needed. In such case you can approach your GP.

For arthritis of back joints like sacroiliac joint which usually gives stiffness and pain on lower back physiotherapy will be helpful. Physiotherapy like TENS and massage helps. Your physiotherapist also will teach you several exercises for back muscle strengthening which will gradually decreases the stiffness and pain.

Let me know if anything not clear.
I am happy to help you.
Thanks.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar