What is the effective treatment for back pain while bending down?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

I am experiencing pain in my back muscles (left side) when I bend my spine while looking down. I have a bad posture most of the time because I study by lying on my bed mostly supporting my left elbow on the bed. Please say how to get rid of this condition.

Please help me.

Thanks.

Answered by Christian Brown

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I can understand your concern.

Before providing you with a more accurate diagnosis, additional history, and proper physical examination are required. With that said, given the provided information, with no pertinent medical history and no recent history of trauma directly or near the area of complaint, here are my initial clinical impressions and recommendations:

Differential diagnosis:

  1. Postural strain - Likely caused due to sustained poor posture. It can often lead to muscle fatigue and strain. In your case, lying on one side or leaning on an elbow for a prolonged period can distort your spinal alignment and compromise the structural integrity of your soft tissue (muscles, ligaments, or tendons)

  2. Mechanical joint in the spine- Your joint in the spine can become inflamed or irritated, especially with certain spine movements

  3. Inflammation of the cartilage in the rib cage- Cartilages that connect your rib to the sternum can cause pain with certain movements or positions.

I suggest the following treatment plan for you.

  1. Ergonomic corrections - Ensure your study setup promotes good posture, consider using a supportive chair, using a proper desk, keeping your feet flat on the floor, and sitting upright while maintaining the proper curvature of the spine. If using a desk, allow your elbows to be at a 90-degree angle.

  2. Activity modification - If possible, try to avoid positions that exacerbate your pain, find more neutral positions, and use pillows or other supporting items to support your back and neck while lying down on your bed

  3. Stretching and strengthening exercises - Gentle exercises targeting the back and core abdominal or spine muscles can help alleviate back strain. Yoga or pilates could be particularly beneficial.

  4. Heat therapy - Applying a moist heat pack to the affected area might temporarily help relax the muscles and reduce pain

  5. Over-the-counter medications for pain relief- Proceed with caution, and take as instructed. Medications such as Ibuprofen or Acetaminophen can temporarily help manage pain and inflammation.

  6. Consult a local health care professional - If your pain persists, I highly recommend seeing a medical doctor, physical therapist, and chiropractor for personalized advice and a treatment plan.

You must monitor your symptoms, and if they do not improve or worsen, seek further medical evaluation. I hope you find relief soon. If you have any other questions or need more information, feel free to ask.

Feel free to follow up with any further questions or concerns.

I hope this information helps you.

Thank you.

Answered byChristian Brown

Medically reviewed byiCliniq medical review team

Published At March 5, 2025
Reviewed AtMarch 5, 2025

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