Did you know lower back pain is the most commonly reported type of pain in the U.S.? An estimated 25% of adults live with one or more types of back pain. Are you a part of this group?
If you’re wondering, ‘why does my back hurt?’ you can find out by reading this guide.
Table of Contents
Spinal Discs Conditions
Spinal discs sit between almost all of the vertebrae. They are soft and cushion-like and work to absorb shock, separate vertebrae, and protect nerves. Here are some injuries or conditions that affect spinal discs that cause back pain.
Bulging Disc
Spinal discs are made of cartilage: the center is soft and gel-like, and the outside is firm. These discs become worn with age or may become damaged due to injury, disease, poor posture, lack of fitness, and obesity. A bulging disc pushes out of the area it typically occupies.
Symptoms include burning pain, difficulty walking, numbness or tingling, general discomfort, and weakness in the back or extremities. Depending on where the bulging disc is, these symptoms may be isolated to specific areas (like the lower back).
Slipped or Herniated Disc
A slipped (or herniated) disc describe when the soft, gel-like middle of the disc “spills out” from the protective exterior wall surrounding it. It is one of the most common reasons for many types of lower back pain. Symptoms of a slipped disc include pain, numbness on one side of the body, pain in one or more limbs, difficulty walking, sitting, or standing, weakness, burning or tingling.
Severe cases may need surgical intervention. If it is not properly treated, it could lead to nerve conditions, sciatica, or saddle anesthesia. If you need a spinal specialist, try elitepainandspine.com now.
Chronic Conditions
Chronic conditions last many months or even years. Here are some chronic spinal conditions that are common causes of back pain.
Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis is a chronic condition affecting multiple joints in the body. It is caused by joint damage. When the cartilage between the vertebrae becomes damaged and worn, it can’t grow back.
It is prevalent in older people. The lower back is usually where the pain is felt first. In the beginning, difficulty moving in the morning or stiffness after several hours of remaining still is typical.
As time goes on, and if the condition isn’t managed, it could significantly limit movement and disability. Treatment includes pain management, physical therapy, and lifestyle changes.
Scoliosis
Scoliosis causes the spine to bend into an “S” shape. While it is most often identified in children, it can be diagnosed in adults as well. It often causes lower back pain from muscle strains.
Mild scoliosis in an adult may show as uneven hips, waist, or shoulders. A severe could cause pinched nerves, difficulty breathing, or constant pressure on the stomach. Surgical intervention may be necessary in these cases.
Spinal Stenosis
Spinal stenosis, also called spinal narrowing, is the narrowing of one or more spinal canal areas, which puts pressure on the spinal cords and nerves. This could be a result of osteoarthritis or occur on its own. Older people are much more likely to develop spinal stenosis.
Symptoms of spinal stenosis include pain, weakness, difficulty walking, incontinence, and numbness. Sometimes it can appear with no symptoms at all. Current treatments are pain management, physical therapy, and surgery.
The Common Types of Back Pain Explained
As you can see, there are many types of back pain and reasons for it. An injured back isn’t the only condition that causes pain. Remember to get in contact with a spinal health specialist to get the proper care you deserve.
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