12 Causes of Low Back Pain

Low back pain is a widespread and debilitating condition that can affect people of all ages. It is essential to understand the various potential causes of low back pain to facilitate accurate diagnosis and effective treatment. In this blog, we will explore 12 common causes of low back pain, with a focus on each cause’s characteristics, symptoms, and available treatment options, supported by references from published articles and medical journals.

The sacroiliac joint (SI joint) is located between the sacrum and the ilium bones of the pelvis. Dysfunction in the SI joint can lead to localized pain in the lower back, often aggravated by prolonged sitting, walking, or climbing stairs. Conservative treatments include physical therapy, SI joint injections, and stabilization exercises.

A lumbar disc herniation occurs when the inner gel-like substance (nucleus pulposus) of an intervertebral disc protrudes and irritates nearby structures. This can cause localized low back pain. Treatment options include physical therapy, epidural steroid injections, and in some cases, surgery.

When a herniated disc compresses a spinal nerve root, it can lead to radiculopathy, commonly known as sciatica. Symptoms include pain, numbness, or tingling that radiates down one leg. Conservative treatments include rest, anti-inflammatory medications, physical therapy, transforaminal epidural injections and surgical intervention if necessary.

Facet joints in the lumbar spine can become arthritic, leading to facet joint pain. Symptoms include localized pain that can radiate to the buttocks and thighs. Treatment options include facet joint injections, physical therapy, and, in severe cases, radiofrequency ablation.

Spinal stenosis is the narrowing of the spinal canal, which can compress the spinal cord or nerve roots. Symptoms include back pain, leg pain, and neurogenic claudication. Conservative treatments may include physical therapy, epidural injections, and surgical decompression in severe cases.

Vertebral fractures, often due to osteoporosis, can cause sudden and severe low back pain. Management involves pain control, bracing, verterbroplasty and osteoporosis treatment to prevent future fractures.

Muscular strains in the lumbosacral region, often caused by lifting heavy objects or sudden movements, can result in acute low back pain. Treatment includes rest, ice, anti-inflammatory medications, and physical therapy.

The piriformis muscle, located in the buttocks, can compress the sciatic nerve, leading to symptoms similar to sciatica. Treatment options include stretching exercises, physical therapy, and in some cases, injection therapy.

Quadratus lumborum, a deep back muscle, can cause low back pain when strained. Physical therapy, stretching, and strengthening exercises can be effective in managing this condition.

Myofascial trigger points in the gluteal muscles can refer pain to the low back. Trigger point injections, physical therapy, and massage therapy are common treatment approaches.

Potential pain sites associated with abdominal aortic aneurysm. Back pain is present in around 50% of pre-rupture aneurysms. Buttock and thigh symptoms may be referred from the vessel itself. Calf pain may be a result of distal embolization.

An abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is a potentially life-threatening condition. While it typically causes abdominal pain, it can radiate to the lower back. Treatment may include surgery to repair the aneurysm.

MRI showing Tuberculous destruction of the spine. Also referred to as Pott’s spine

Infections like Pott’s spine (tuberculosis affecting the spine) and tumors in the spine can lead to low back pain. Treatment varies and may include antibiotics for infections or surgery for tumor removal.

Low back pain can have various underlying causes, each requiring a different approach to diagnosis and treatment. It is crucial to consult a healthcare professional such as ALLEVIATE PAIN CLINIC  to accurately identify the source of pain and develop a tailored treatment plan. Early intervention and appropriate management can significantly improve the quality of life for individuals suffering from low back pain.

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