Lower back pain is a very common complaint, but your back pain will always be very different to another's back pain. This is also the case for treatment approaches, what works for others may not work or be appropriate for you. Here are some possible causes for back pain, and it is crucial this is diagnosed before any treatment approaches can be utilised.
Muscle or ligament strain: Overuse, sudden movements, or improper lifting can strain the muscles and ligaments in the lower back, leading to pain and stiffness.
Herniated or bulging discs: The soft cushions (discs) between the vertebrae in the spine can bulge or rupture, putting pressure on nearby nerves and causing pain, numbness, or weakness.
Degenerative disc disease: As the discs between the vertebrae age, they can lose hydration and elasticity, leading to pain and reduced flexibility.
Osteoarthritis: Wear and tear on the facet joints in the spine can lead to osteoarthritis, causing inflammation, stiffness, and pain in the lower back.
Spinal stenosis: Narrowing of the spinal canal or nerve root canals, often due to osteoarthritis, can put pressure on the spinal cord and nerves, leading to pain, numbness, or weakness in the lower back and legs.
Spondylolisthesis: This occurs when a vertebra slips out of place and onto the vertebra below it, compressing the spinal nerves and causing lower back pain and stiffness.
Sciatica: Compression or irritation of the sciatic nerve, which runs from the lower back through the buttocks and down the legs, can cause pain that radiates from the lower back into the buttocks and legs.
Muscle spasms: Sudden, involuntary contractions of the muscles in the lower back can cause intense pain and stiffness.
Trauma or injury: Falls, car accidents, or other trauma can cause fractures, sprains, or strains in the lower back, leading to pain and discomfort.
Scoliosis: Abnormal curvature of the spine can cause uneven pressure on the discs and facet joints, leading to lower back pain.
Ankylosing spondylitis: This is a type of inflammatory arthritis that primarily affects the spine, causing pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility, particularly in the lower back.
Facet joint strain: The joints in your spine can become inflamed and very painful.
Sacro-lliac joint pain: This is the articulation between your sacrum and your pelvic bone and can become painful if you suffer a fall or trauma. It can also be a common complaint during pregnancy.
If you are suffering with back pain, be sure to see your trusted Osteopath who will diagnose, educate, treat and advise you with everything that is specific to you.