Lower back pain is something almost everyone has to deal with at some point during their lives. Those around the age of 30 are likely to experience lower back pain due to lower back muscle strain or pain from within the disc space, while older individuals typically experience it due to the degeneration of joints in the spine or compression fractures.

Lower back pain is caused by multiple problems from various parts of the interconnected network of nerves, bones, discs, spinal muscles, or tendons in our lumbar spine.

Common sources of lower back pain

Problems with any of the following parts or structures can result in lower back pain:

• Irritated nerve roots that start from the lower back going to the legs
• Irritated smaller nerves supplying the lower back
• Strained lower back muscles
• Damaged bones, joints, or ligaments
• Degenerating intervertebral disc

Symptoms and severity of the pain varies from one individual to another. For example, a simple lower back muscle strain can be unbearable enough that an individual may need to go to the emergency room, while a degenerating disc can only cause some mild discomfort.

Taking note of the symptoms and getting a diagnosis that precisely identifies the underlying cause is key to getting effective pain relief.

Causes
Below are some of the common causes for lower back pain:

• Muscle strain or sciatica – Experiencing back pain after lifting heavy objects or exercise is often caused by muscle strain. At times, this can also be attributed to a bulging or ruptured disc. If a damaged disc presses on the sciatic nerve, it results in pain that can be felt from the buttocks going down to one leg, also known as sciatica.
• Twisting of the spine – If you often do activities that require movements such as lifting, pulling, or anything that twists your spine, you may experience lower back pain.
• Working out – Excessive exercise or improper form during workouts can lead to overextended muscles, resulting in lower back pain.
• Poor posture – Avoid slouching – your weight is best supported by your back when you maintain good posture. If you have a job that requires you to sit at a desk for almost the entire day, choose a chair with good lumbar support, keep your shoulders back, and feet even on the floor. Also stand up and walk around from time to time.
• Carrying bags for extended periods – Your lower back supports your upper body, so carrying any additional weight can strain it, especially if it’s for long periods of time.
• Chronic conditions – Some individuals experience lower back pain due to chronic conditions such as spinal stenosis, spondylitis, or fibromyalgia. These conditions affect the spinal cord, spinal joints and nerves, and lower back muscles.

Immediate treatment
Most individuals who experience lower back pain do not often require urgent care, but if the pain is the result of trauma, then it is best to seek medical help immediately.

Immediate treatment is also required if any of the following symptoms accompany the pain:

• Unexplained weight loss
• Significant leg weakness
• Significant, continuous pain in the abdomen
• Fever and chills
• Sudden bowel and/or bladder incontinence