This is the most common condition I treat in my clinic. Most people will experience back pain at some point in their lives and it can have many different causes and symptoms. 

Common causes include:

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• Structural problems – These can include issues such as arthritis (osteoarthritis, ankylosing spondylitis), herniated discs, spinal stenosis and osteoporosis.

• Muscle strain – Heavy lifting, moving awkwardly or overuse of the muscles and tendons can cause injury.

• Joint strain – Similar to muscle strains but a component of the joint is overwhelmed resulting in local pain around the joint.

• Injuries – If you have an accident or a fall this may cause acute back pain. Sports injuries are another common cause.

 

The pain you experience can range from a dull ache to a sharp, shooting pain. This pain can be constant or come and go. You may have difficulty standing up straight, and moving may make your symptoms worse. Other symptoms may include stiffness, painful muscle spasms, weakness, numbness and tingling.

 

As painful and limiting as lower back pain can be, it is very rare that the underlying cause is serious. For most cases trying to keep mobile will help. This may be gentle stretching and moving to taking short walks. Always try to work within your tolerable levels when doing this rather than working through your pain.