5 Common Causes of Lower Back Pain
Lower back pain is a problem that has plagued most people at some point in their lives. There are a number of factors that could be causing lower back pain, from injury to degenerative disease. Here are five common lower back pain causes.
1. Herniated or Slipped Disc
Spinal degeneration is typically age-related, with your spinal health becoming more vulnerable to medical problems over time. A degenerative spine can lead to a slipped or herniated disc in the spine. This can occur within the lumbar portion of the spine, resulting in lower left back pain or lower right back pain. Herniated discs can be set off by traumas, injuries or strains.
2. Spinal Stenosis
This condition is the narrowing of the spinal canal, a vertebral column that the spinal cord passes through. When the spinal column is narrowed, a pressure is placed on the nerve roots of the cord, resulting in pain, weakness, and numbness. The symptoms of spinal stenosis are often gradual. Spinal stenosis could be rooted in spinal diseases like scoliosis or spondylolisthesis.
3. Osteoarthritis
Arthritis is the degeneration of the joints. It is often age-related, with wear and tear of the joints leading to pain, instability, and inflammation. This joint disease involves stiffness, a restricted range of movement, and joint swelling.
4. Strain or Sprain
A strain is when a muscle is stretched to its limit, causing tear or damage to the muscle. A sprain is a stretch that tears the ligaments, the connective tissue that holds together bones or cartilage. A strain or sprain can develop from wear and tear over time. Activities that could lead to strain or sprain include lifting heavy objects, injuries, poor postures, and sudden movements that place stress on the lower back.
5. Trauma or Injury
A sports injury, fall, or car accident can cause physical trauma to the lower back. Compression fractures are especially common.
Treat Your Lower Back Pain At Oxford Rehabilitation Center
If you are a Philadelphia resident who is suffering from lower back pain, contact Oxford Rehabilitation to set up an appointment with our chiropractor. You can reach us at 215-725-2000 for more information.