Back pain is an easily recognizable problem that can bring on a number of sensations. It can present itself in any location along the spine, a stack of 26 bones connected by ligaments, muscles and shock-absorbing discs.
You rely on your spine to be the workhorse of the body – its function is essential for nearly every move you make. Because of this, the spine and its intervertebral discs can be particularly vulnerable to injury and chronic pain.
Back pain is the most common complaints brought to doctors in the United States. Over six million cases are seen annually, with the majority being in the lower back. It is expensive, too, ranking 3rd after heart disease and cancer in its contribution to medical expenses. Four out of five adults will have at least one bout of back pain sometime during their lives. In fact, back pain is the most common reason for doctor office visits, worker’s compensation claims and missed work.
On the bright side, you can prevent most back pain. Simple home treatment and proper body mechanics will often heal your back within a few weeks and keep it functional for the long haul. Surgery is only occasionally needed to treat back pain.
Causes
Your lower back bears most of the weight and stress of your body. Back pain most often occurs from strained back muscles and ligaments, from improper or heavy lifting, or after a sudden awkward movement. Sometimes a muscle spasm can cause back pain. Often, there is an accumulation of stress with one particular event resulting in pain. In many cases, there may not be an obvious cause.
The following specific conditions can also cause back pain: