7 Possible causes of lower back and leg pain and how to address them

Lower back and leg pain are a common occurrence. When you experience one or both, the pain usually goes away after a few hours or a day with some rest and home treatment. However, if the pain is recurring or if it becomes severe, it may indicate the presence of an underlying condition that needs to be checked quickly. Here are seven possible causes and ways to naturally address them.

1. Unhealthy lifestyle

Poor posture can either cause back and leg pain or increase your risk of developing conditions that cause them. Improving your posture at work, taking breaks to stretch and walk around and exercising regularly can all help reduce and prevent pain.

2. Strains and sprains

A sprained or strained lower back is accompanied by significant pain. In more extreme cases, this pain can radiate down to the buttocks or restrict your range of movement. Similarly, it can cause muscle spasms. Lie down, use an ice or heat pack and stretch the affected area gently. You can also get a soothing massage or undergo physical therapy if the strain or sprain is more serious.

3. Sciatica

Sciatica is a term used to describe pain, numbness or weakness that radiates along the sciatic nerve. This nerve is the longest and widest single nerve in the human body, located in the lower back. It runs from the back down to the hips and then runs down each leg. Typically, sciatica only affects one side of the body. Taking a rest, stretching and using ice and heat packs can deal with sciatica. Improving your posture, taking the pressure off your spine and avoiding any further stress to your sciatic nerve can also alleviate the pain.

4. Spinal infection

An infection coming from the spine or the surrounding area of your back can lead to back pain and tenderness. This pain can radiate down to the legs if left unattended. Depending on the causative organism, your natural health practitioner may prescribe long-term rounds of natural antifungal or natural antibacterial treatment. (Related: Make this natural antibiotic formula at home to treat any infection.)

5. Fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition that causes widespread stiffness and pain that can reach the lower back and legs. People affected with fibromyalgia feel that the pain, which comes in cycles, gets worse over time. Rest, exercise and supplementing your diet with vitamin D and magnesium can ease the symptoms. Alternatively, massage, yoga, tai chi and acupuncture can also help improve your quality of life.

6. Arthritis

Arthritis is a group of conditions that can make your joints inflamed and painful. If arthritis affects your lower spine and hips, it can cause pain in your lower back and legs. Exercise, hot and cold therapy and weight loss can deal with your symptoms. Meditation, massages and acupuncture can also reduce arthritic pain.

7. Ankylosing spondylitis

Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is a chronic condition that inflames the joints and vertebrae. AS causes stiffness and pain in the back, as well as pain that radiates to other parts of the body like the ribs, hips, knees and feet. Unfortunately, there is currently no cure for AS. However, there are natural ways to relieve its symptoms, such as exercising, stretching and avoiding long periods of idleness.

There are many other natural remedies for lower back and leg pain available. Before you try any of them, make sure to consult with a trusted healthcare professional first.

Sources include:

MedicalNewsToday.com 1

Spine-Health.com

SpineUniverse.com

MedicalNewsToday.com 2

Healthline.com 1

Healthline.com 2