Did you know that at least 8 in every 10 Americans will deal with low back pain at some point in their life? The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS) ranks low back pain as the most common cause of work-related disability. In most cases, this condition is usually caused by soft tissue injuries like muscle strains and sprains related to poor lifting habits and sudden movements. They can also be caused by other medical conditions. Let’s review 7 possible causes of low back pain Glen Rock.
1. Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis – arthritis of the joints – is caused by the gradual wear and tear of facet joints and discs. It usually results in stenosis, instability, inflammation, and pain. Depending on the severity, it can occur at one or several levels of the spine and lead to low back pain. Spinal osteoarthritis is common among older patients and is also called degenerative joint disease.
2. Herniated Discs
Herniated or bulging discs are another cause of severe low back pain. Lumbar discs have a tough outer layer and a jelly-like center designed to prevent friction and provide cushioning. Sometimes, this center breaks through the outer layer and causes irritation in the surrounding nerve root, nerve root pain, and nerve compression. Pain caused by herniated discs can be very severe and debilitating.
3. Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction
Another possible cause of low back pain is sacroiliac joint dysfunction. The sacroiliac joint is a strong joint that connects the base of the spine to the sides of the pelvis. In addition to being low-motion, it is designed to absorb tension and shock between the lower body and upper body. Pain in this part of the body is usually caused by inflammation or too little or too much motion in the joint.
4. Degenerative Disc Disease
When you are born, the discs in your vertebrae are at their healthiest and contain water. However, as you age, these discs are exposed to wear and tear and lose their hydration. This loss of water prevents them from absorbing shock properly and often results in tears, pain, weakness, and herniation. The condition is called degenerative disc disease and can cause intense back pain.
5. Trauma
Lower back pain can occur immediately after a fall or motor vehicle accident or delay for several weeks. The pain is usually caused by a dislocation or fracture of the spine and can be detrimental if not treated by a professional promptly.
6. Strains
Soft tissue injuries like muscle sprains and strains are the most common cause of low back pain. They tend to occur due to excess activity or incorrect movements when exercising, working, or lifting heavy objects. Usually, the symptoms – muscle spasms, stiffness, and pain – go away with rest and physical therapy.
7. Spinal Stenosis
Spinal stenosis is the narrowing of the spinal canal. It usually affects the nerve roots and can cause severe or chronic lower back pain.
Find Back Pain Relief Today
There are many more reasons you might be experiencing low back pain, and the best way to pinpoint the problem is to visit your physician. This is especially true if your back pain persists. At Progressive Spine & Sports Medicine, we offer a wide range of low back pain treatments, including acupuncture, electrical stimulation, and physical therapy. Contact our Glen Rock office today or book an appointment online to learn more about how we can handle your back pain.