Lower Back Pain

Lower back pain is a common condition that affects the area between the bottom of the ribcage and the top of the legs, known as the lumbar spine. It can range from a dull ache to a sharp or shooting pain and may be acute (lasting a few days to weeks) or chronic (persisting for months or longer).

Causes of Lower Back Pain

• Muscle or Ligament Strain: Often due to overuse, poor posture, or sudden movements.
• Herniated or Bulging Discs: A disc may press on spinal nerves, causing pain or numbness.
• Degenerative Disc Disease: Age-related wear and tear on spinal discs.
• Spinal Stenosis: Narrowing of the spinal canal, compressing nerves.
• Arthritis: Inflammation of joints in the spine, often linked to osteoarthritis.
• Spondylolisthesis: One vertebra slipping forward over another.
• Fractures: Resulting from trauma or conditions like osteoporosis.
• Infections or Tumors: Rare but possible causes of lower back pain.

Symptoms of Concern

• Persistent or worsening pain.
• Pain radiating to the legs (sciatica).
• Numbness, tingling, or weakness in the legs.
• Difficulty standing, walking, or performing daily activities.
• Loss of bladder or bowel control (a medical emergency).