Find Out More About What Causes Lower Back Pain

So what causes lower back pain?

Also referred to as Lumbago, it is incredibly common in incidence across the globe, and in the United States, it is the second most neurological disease after headaches. It is not a discriminatory condition, with men and women being equally affected.

Most people in the United States suffer with lower back pain due to work related strains and accidents, as it can occur when a person lifts a heavy object incorrectly, or overstretches, causing strain or sprain in the ligaments or muscles in the back. The pain can range from mild to acute, and in most cases, is experienced across the bottom of the back, or on one side.

Pregnancy is well-known for causing pain in this area, as the body adjusts to hormonal changes, posture realignment and carrying extra weight - gynecological problems such as ovarian cysts and fibroids can also cause pain.

When the discs between the vertebrae become damaged, and subsequently rupture, this can cause compression against the nerves in the spinal cord, which in turn, causes pain in the low back region.

As the body ages, the strength of the bone and muscles tends to become less, with bones becoming more brittle and muscles becoming less elastic. Pressure on the nerve roots in the spine can also be caused by other factors, such as osteoarthritis, spondylolisthesis and the narrowing of the spinal canal, all of which are more prevalent in old age. It's also quite common for women to suffer from osteoporosis after the menopause.

Long term usage of corticosteroids can also result in pain in the lower back.

Other, far less common reasons for lower back pain, are tumors which can grow on or near the spine, and infections in similar areas. For example, a kidney infection can cause significant pain low in the back.

It's important to bear in mind that most pain of this nature can be treated without any need for surgery. However, if it persists despite treatment, the opinion of a doctor or health professional is sought as soon as possible.

Whilst lower back pain is likely to improve with minimal treatment in the majority of cases, it can turn into something more serious if it is;

a) not diagnosed and treated correctly, or

b) not treated seriously, or swiftly enough

One needs to understand what causes lower back pain and how it can be treated with the help of correct medical attention.