If you’re one of the estimated 80% of adults who suffer from low back pain, you know how debilitating it can be. You may also know that there are many causes of low back pain, ranging from herniated discs to osteoarthritis. But did you know that certain risk factors can make you more likely to develop low back pain? Keep reading to learn more about what causes low back pain. If you already have chronic back pain, you need to talk to a specialist in lower back pain Livingston.
Table of Contents
Herniated Discs
One of the most common causes of low back pain is a herniated disc. When a disc herniates, the inner, jelly-like material has leaked out through a tear in the outer layer. This can cause pain, numbness, and weakness in the affected area. Herniated discs are often the result of wear and tear on the discs, but they can also be caused by sudden injury or trauma.
Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease that can cause low back pain. When the cartilage between the joints breaks down, the bones rub together, causing pain, stiffness, and inflammation. If you have osteoarthritis, you may experience pain when you move or have pain that is worse at night.
Fibromyalgia
Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition that can cause widespread pain, fatigue, and stiffness. People with fibromyalgia often experience pain in their lower back and neck, shoulders, and hips. Fibromyalgia can also cause sleep problems, depression, and anxiety.
Spinal Stenosis
Spinal stenosis is a condition that occurs when the spaces in the spine narrow, putting pressure on the spinal cord and nerves. This can cause pain, numbness, and weakness in the legs and low back. Degenerative changes in the spine often cause spinal stenosis, but they can also be caused by injury or trauma.
Scoliosis
Scoliosis is a condition that causes the spine to curve to the side. This can pressure the nerves and cause pain in the back, neck, and legs. Scoliosis is often first noticed in childhood or adolescence, but it can also develop in adulthood. People with scoliosis often have a family history of the condition.
Kyphosis
Kyphosis is a condition that causes the spine to curve forward. This can lead to pain in the back and neck and fatigue and stiffness. Kyphosis is often caused by osteoarthritis or degenerative changes in the spine. It can also be caused by injury, infection, or tumors.
Spondylolisthesis
Spondylolisthesis is a condition that occurs when one of the vertebrae slips out of place and presses on the spinal cord or nerves. This can cause pain, numbness, and weakness in the legs and low back. You may also experience difficulty walking or standing for long periods. Degenerative changes in the spine often cause spondylolisthesis, but they can also be caused by injury or trauma.
In summary, there are many causes of low back pain, ranging from herniated discs to osteoarthritis. But certain risk factors can make you more likely to develop low back pain, such as age, obesity, smoking, and a sedentary lifestyle. If you have chronic back pain, you need to talk to a specialist in lower back pain.