What are Some Common Causes of Lower Back Pain?

Lower back pain (LBP) is a common condition with numerous potential causes, ranging from mild muscle strains to serious medical conditions. Here are some of the most common causes:

1. Mechanical Causes (Most Common)

• Muscle or Ligament Strain – Overstretching, heavy lifting, sudden movements, or poor posture.
• Herniated or Bulging Disc – A disc pressing on spinal nerves, often causing sciatica (radiating leg pain).
• Degenerative Disc Disease – Age-related wear and tear of spinal discs.
• Spinal Stenosis – Narrowing of the spinal canal, compressing nerves (common in older adults).
• Spondylolisthesis – A vertebra slipping out of place, often due to stress fractures (spondylolysis).
• Osteoarthritis – Joint degeneration in the spine leading to stiffness and pain.

2. Structural Issues

• Scoliosis or Abnormal Curvature of the Spine – Can cause chronic back pain.
• Osteoporosis-Related Fractures – Vertebral compression fractures, especially in older adults.
• Facet Joint Dysfunction – Inflammation or arthritis in the small spinal joints.

3. Inflammatory & Autoimmune Causes

• Ankylosing Spondylitis – A type of inflammatory arthritis affecting the spine.
• Rheumatoid Arthritis – Can also affect spinal joints.

4. Infections & Tumors (Less Common but Serious)

• Spinal Infections (e.g., osteomyelitis, discitis) – Often due to bacteria or fungi.
• Spinal Tumors or Metastases – Cancer spreading to the spine (e.g., from breast, prostate, lung).

5. Referred Pain (Originating Elsewhere)

• Kidney Stones or Infections – Can cause flank pain radiating to the lower back.
• Pelvic Disorders – Endometriosis, ovarian cysts, or prostatitis.
• Aortic Aneurysm – A rare but life-threatening cause of sudden severe back pain.

6. Lifestyle & Other Factors

• Poor Posture & Sedentary Lifestyle – Weak core muscles and prolonged sitting.
• Obesity – Excess weight strains the lower back.
• Psychological Stress – Can worsen chronic pain perception.

When to Seek Medical Attention

• Severe pain after trauma (e.g., a fall or accident)
• Pain with fever, unexplained weight loss, or night sweats (could indicate infection/cancer)
• Numbness/weakness in legs, loss of bowel/bladder control (cauda equina syndrome—emergency)
• Pain lasting >6 weeks despite rest and home care

If back pain persists or worsens, consulting a healthcare provider (e.g., primary care doctor, orthopedic specialist, or physical therapist) is recommended for proper diagnosis and treatment. Imaging (X-rays, MRI) may be needed in some cases.