Lower back pain is a common condition that affects many people at some point in their lives. It is a type of musculoskeletal pain that can range from mild to severe and can last for a few days or weeks.
The exact cause of lower back pain is often difficult to determine, as there are many potential causes. Some of the most common causes of lower back pain include:
Muscle strain or sprain: This often occurs after a sudden movement or after lifting something heavy. The strain or sprain can cause the muscles and ligaments in the lower back to become overstretched and inflamed.
Injury: Injury to the lower back can occur due to a fall, car accident, sports injury, or other traumatic event.
Arthritis: This is an inflammatory condition that can affect the joints and bones in the lower back, leading to pain and stiffness.
Spinal stenosis: This is a narrowing of the spinal canal, which can cause pain and numbness in the lower back.
Degenerative disc disease: This occurs when the discs between the vertebrae in the spine start to break down. This can cause pain, as well as a decrease in flexibility and range of motion.
Sciatica: This is a condition in which the sciatic nerve is compressed, leading to pain that radiates down the leg.
Fibromyalgia: This is a chronic condition that causes pain in the muscles and soft tissues, as well as fatigue.
Pregnancy: During pregnancy, a woman’s body goes through many changes, including an increase in weight and stress on the lower back.
These are just some of the potential causes of lower back pain. It is important to speak with a doctor if you are experiencing any type of chronic or severe pain, as it could be a sign of something more serious.