Common Causes of Lower Back Pain
Acute and recurring lower back pain is a common complaint. Up to 80% of the population will experience back pain at some time in their lives, according to the American Chiropractic Association. Most cases of acute lower back pain heal over time, but recurrence is common. Understanding the underlying causes of your lower back pain can help you avoid further complications and recover as quickly as possible.
What causes lower back pain?
There are many causes for lower back pain, including overuse, overexertion or prolonged sitting. Other causes include:
Sprains and strains
Sprains and strains are a common cause of acute low back pain. Sprains occur when ligaments are overstretched or torn, while strains occur when fibers in a muscle or tendon begin to tear. Both sprains and strains can happen from twisting or lifting something improperly, overstretching or lifting something too heavy.
Herniated or ruptured discs
A herniated or ruptured disc in the lower back occurs when an intervertebral disc begins to herniate (bulge outward) when the jelly-like nucleus pushes against its outer ring due to wear and tear or injury, causing low back pain.
Radiculopathy
Lumbosacral Radiculopathy, commonly referred to as a pinched nerve, is caused by compression or irritation of nerve roots in the lower back. Besides acute lower back pain, radiculopathy causes symptoms such as numbness, weakness and loss of reflexes.
Intervertebral disc degeneration
Intervertebral disc degeneration occurs when one or more of the vertebrae degenerates, causing pain in the back or neck. This cause of the deterioration is due to the normal process of aging, as well as wear and tear or injury.
Sciatica
The sciatic nerve is a large nerve that runs from the lower back, down the back of each leg. When there is pressure on the sciatic nerve, pain radiates down one or both legs from the lower back. Sciatica usually is caused when a herniated disk or bone spur occurs in the spine, allowing for unwanted pressure on the nerve.
Traumatic injury
Traumatic spinal cord injury can stem from a sudden blow to the spine. Sports, car accidents or falls can fracture, dislocate or crush one or more of your vertebrates.
Spine curvature disorders
Skeletal irregularities, such as scoliosis, kyphosis and lordosis, are natural curvatures of the spine that are misaligned or exaggerated in certain areas.
Lower back pain is a common condition that can affect anyone at any age, so it is important to recognize what is causing your lower back pain from the beginning. Here at Brain2Spine Institute, we are dedicated to providing the highest quality of service and care to our patients. If you are experiencing chronic lower back pain, call us at (727) 500-2318.
