What Causes Back Pain?
Ongoing back pain is not uncommon. In fact, it’s the leading cause of disability, especially for those under the age of 45. There are many causes of chronic back pain. Understanding them can help you find a solution. And ease your pain.
Spine-Related Issues
Anything interfering with the spine can cause back pain, such as:
- Nerves
- Discs
- Muscles
- Spinal joints
Any interference causes pain. Common spinal-related issues include the following:
Herniated (slipped) discs. This means the disc between your spinal joints has moved. Herniated discs are most often caused by wear and tear. And, this soft tissue provides a cushion in the spine. Without it, nerves get compressed. Therefore, causing back and hip pain.
Bulging discs. The spinal discs are bulging. But they do not protrude as much as when herniated. There are not always symptoms with this condition. You may feel pain any time a nerve root gets pressed.
Degenerative disc disease. This causes the discs between vertebrae to shrink. Without a cushion, the bones rub together. In fact, degenerative disc disease is most common as you get older.
Sacroiliac joint issues. The sacroiliac joint sits between the spine and pelvis. It moves the upper-body load to the lower body. But, this joint can become worn and inflamed. A sacroiliac joint injury causes the cartilage here to wear.
Arthritis, infection, and pregnancy can also contribute to inflammation.
Spinal stenosis. This is the narrowing of the spinal canal. Pressure on the spine and nerves is increased. Back pain, as well as numbness in shoulders and legs, are the most common. Spinal stenosis occurs mostly after the age of 60.
Cervical radiculopathy. Also called a pinched nerve, this happens with bone spurs. A pinched nerve also develops with herniated discs.
Spondylolisthesis. A condition where a bone in the spine slips. Spondylolisthesis a degenerative type of arthritis. Joints and ligaments that stabilize the spine are weakened. Therefore, causing discs to move over the vertebra.
Accidents and Injuries that Causes Back Pain
Falls, car accidents, sprains, and fractures can all cause back pain. However, some may cause physical problems too. But, many will just cause ongoing pain.
Spinal fractures. The vertebrae can fracture if you are hit in the back. This also happens with falls. Conditions like osteoporosis can weaken spinal bones. This increases the risk of these fractures.
Sprains and strains. Tendons and ligaments that support the spine can be damaged. This will cause back pain. You can also cause strains when lifting objects. Especially if you lift and twist at the same time. Car accidents and sports also commonly cause sprains.
Spasms. This happens if muscles in the back get strained or torn. Playing sports and weight lifting commonly cause spasms.
With most of these back pain, treatment is required. This includes lifestyle changes and medication. However, severe cases may need surgery. If you have ongoing back pain, speak with your doctor. They can help identify the cause. And get you back to feeling better.
If you are searching for a back pain specialist, you’re in luck! In fact, our spine specialists are world-renowned. So, call us at 888-409-8006 for assistance.