The Causes of Back Pain

Back pain can be caused by any number of reasons. Back pain is one of the most common health problems that affects on average eight out of 10 individuals at some period of time throughout their lives (Source: Medline Plus- Sometimes back pain is a symptom of a more serious problem and sometimes it is the result of muscle strain.

Lumbar Muscle Strain- Pain in the lower back is most often brought on as a result of muscle strain. This can be caused by overexerting a muscle during exercise or rigorous activity. In most cases, the muscle spasm will improve anywhere from a few days to a week or two. In the meantime you can ease discomfort by resting your back as much as you can and taking an over-the-counter pain reliever.

Discogenic Back Pain- Discogenic back pain is a common cause of experiencing pain in the lower pain. This type of pain comes about when damage occurs to the intervertabral disc, but in the absence of disc herniation. A discogram must be used by a doctor in order for this type of back pain to be properly diagnosed.

Herniated Disc- A herniated disc (also sometimes called a ruptured disc) is a very common, and often painful problem. Herniated discs vary in their level of severity and therefore treatment is very individual and must be decided upon by the patient’s physician.

Spinal Stenosis- Spinal stenosis is a back problem that affects people as they get older. As a person ages their spinal column can become constricted. This happens more readily in people who have such conditions as arthritis. If the spinal column becomes tighter than it should be this can cause pain and discomfort.

Lumbar Spine Arthritis- Arthritis can take up residence in any joint of the body and this includes the small joints that make up the spine. When arthritis occurs in the spine even the smallest movement can bring about pain.

Osteoporosis- Osteoporosis can cause a weakening of bones which can then lead to bones becoming vulnerable to injuries such as fractures. Back pain can occur in those who suffer from osteoporosis because of compression fractures of the vertebra.

Spondylolisthesis- Degenerative changes can lead to a loss of the stabilizing work of the spinal column. This condition is known as spondylolisthesis. An unstable vertebra can cause other vertebra to slip. This leads to more instability and plenty of back pain.