Back Pain

Back pain is a common complaint that can range from mild discomfort to severe, debilitating pain. It can result from injury, poor posture, or underlying medical conditions. Understanding the cause is crucial to finding the most effective treatment.

Common Causes of Back Pain:

1. Muscle or Ligament Strain:

Overexertion: Lifting heavy objects improperly, sudden movements, or overuse can strain muscles or ligaments.

Poor posture: Sitting or standing for extended periods with poor posture can lead to muscle strain, especially in the lower back.



2. Herniated or Bulging Discs:

Intervertebral discs: The soft, rubbery discs between the vertebrae can become herniated or bulge, pressing on nearby nerves and causing pain.



3. Sciatica:

Nerve compression: When the sciatic nerve (running from the lower back down the legs) becomes compressed, it can cause sharp pain that radiates from the lower back down one leg.



4. Arthritis:

Osteoarthritis: Degeneration of the spine's joints can cause back pain, stiffness, and decreased mobility.

Spinal stenosis: Narrowing of the space around the spinal cord, often due to arthritis, can put pressure on the nerves.



5. Osteoporosis:

Weakened bones: Bones can become brittle and more prone to fractures, especially in the spine, leading to back pain.



6. Skeletal Irregularities:

Scoliosis: An abnormal curvature of the spine can cause chronic back pain.

Kyphosis or lordosis: Abnormal rounding of the upper back or inward curvature of the lower back can also lead to pain.



7. Injuries:

Fractures or trauma: Injuries to the spine, such as fractures from falls or accidents, can result in severe back pain.

Whiplash: Sudden forceful movements of the neck and spine can lead to pain, particularly after car accidents.



8. Medical Conditions:

Fibromyalgia: A condition that causes widespread musculoskeletal pain, including in the back.

Kidney infections or stones: Pain from these conditions can sometimes radiate to the lower back.

Infections or tumors: Rarely, infections or tumors affecting the spine can cause back pain.