Lower back pain happens to people of all ages all over the world. Around 80% of all individuals will experience this condition at least once in their lives.
The pain can range from mild to severe and dull to pulsating. It may result from an injury, structural problems, or disease. With so many possible reasons, it might be difficult to figure out the root cause of your back pain.
In this article, we’ll go through some of the conditions causing lower back pain.
Back Strains And Sprains
From bending down to pick something up or reaching up high, we use our backs every day. As such, it’s no surprise that back strains and sprains are some of the most common causes of lower back pain.
Strains and sprains might occur from repetitive, awkward, or sudden movements. It can even be caused by sneezing or coughing. When you get a back strain or sprain, pain and stiffness in the lower back are bound to occur. In some cases, your muscles might spasm.
Sciatica
Sciatica is the result of the compression or injury of the sciatic nerve, which travels from your lower spine through your buttocks and down the back of your legs. This condition causes searing or shocking pain in your lower back.
Sciatica typically affects just one side of the body. The pain can radiate from your lower back and extend down one leg. It might even cause leg numbness, tingling, or weakness. The aching might also worsen when you cough, sneeze or sit for long periods.
Herniated Disc
A herniated disc occurs when a disc slips out of position. Also known as a slipped or ruptured disc, it often happens in the lower back as a result of heavy lifting or twisting.
Unlike aching caused by back strain, pain from herniated discs lasts for more than 72 hours. While it may not persistently hurt, it comes with a host of symptoms:
- Arm or leg pain
- Numbness or tingling
- Muscle weakness
Scoliosis
Scoliosis causes your spine to curve sideways. It’s often attributed to poor posture, which puts pressure on muscles, tendons, ligaments, and vertebrae. Certain conditions such as cerebral palsy could also cause scoliosis.
In addition to scoliosis, your lower back pain may be the result of other abnormal curvatures in the spine, such as kyphosis and lordosis.
Spinal Stenosis
Spinal stenosis happens when the spinal column narrows, thus putting pressure on the spinal cord and nerves. It’s commonly caused by the degeneration of discs between the vertebrae. For lumbar (lower back) spinal stenosis, symptoms include:
- Pain
- Tingling
- Numbness
- Weakness
- Cramping in the legs
Arthritis
Arthritis is the swelling and tenderness of one or more joints, often due to wear and tear. However, it can also be an inflammatory, autoimmune problem. Here are some types of this disease which cause lower back pain:
- Osteoarthritis
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Ankylosing spondylitis
Spondylolisthesis
When your spinal vertebrae slip out of place, spondylolisthesis occurs. This condition is brought about by spinal instability, although genetics and aging are also factors.
In addition to lower back pain, spondylolisthesis symptoms include:
- Muscle spasms behind the thigh
- Back stiffness
- Difficulty walking or standing for long periods
- Pain when bending
- Numbness or tingling in the foot
Endometriosis
Endometriosis might be the culprit behind lower back pain in women. This chronic condition happens when the tissue lining the uterus grows outside of the uterus. When that tissue grows on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, urinary tract, or other tissues lining the pelvis, it can cause:
- Lower back and pelvic pain
- Severely painful menstrual cramps
- Pain with bowel movements or urination
- Pain during or after sex
- Heavy bleeding during periods
- Spotting between periods
- Digestive issues, such as bloating and diarrhea
- Fertility problems
Other Diseases
Spine tumors, infections, and several types of cancer could also cause lower back pain. Other conditions, such as kidney stones and abdominal aortic aneurysm, are also possible reasons for it.
Lower Back Pain Treatment In Austin, TX
Many people live with lower back pain. While not always a cause for concern, it may be a symptom of a severe condition. If your lower back pain doesn’t go away with rest and lifestyle changes, it’s time to consult with a doctor. They can accurately diagnose the underlying cause of your pain and get you the treatment you need.
One of the most popular treatment options for lower back pain is physical therapy. If you’re looking to treat your pain through conservative methods, visit Endeavor Physical Therapy! Our physical therapists stand ready to provide you with the highest quality of care to ease your pain.
If you have any inquiries or would like to schedule a consultation, call us at (512) 284-7192 or fill out our online appointment request form. We look forward to helping you live a pain-free life!
