Common Causes of Back Pain: Why You Got It

Some Causes of Back Pain 

Get to know the causes of back pains. Here are the following:

Sprains and Strains. Sprain refers to the injury of the ligaments, which usually happens when it tears due to overstretching. A strain, on the other hand, is a result of the ripping and tearing of the lumbar spine muscles. This usually happens when the back muscles are not properly warmed up for weightlifting activities. Sprains and strains often come together are known as musculoligamentous injuries. Those with excess body weight, poor posture, improper exercise or none at all as well as those who do not follow proper lifting techniques can be easy targets for sprains and strains. Some may experience immediate soreness and pain while others may take a while before the pain sets it.

Ruptured Intervertebral Disc. Also known as herniated or slipped disc, this type happens when a disc is pushed out of its normal position with the pinching of the spinal cord and its nerves. A ruptured intervertebral disc are classified into four. These are disc protrusion, disc extrusion, disc prolapse and sequestrated disc. Alongside back pain also comes pain in the legs, thighs and feet. Patients may also experience numbness in the ankles as well.

Spinal Stenosis. The narrowing of the spinal canal, which is a result of bony formations, thickening of joint tissues and degeneration of discs, causes spinal stenosis. this condition is common among men and women aged 50 and above as well as those who are subject to labor intensive conditions. Spinal stenosis may either be acquired or hereditary but is often caused by degenerative arthritis. In spinal stenosis, back pain may also be associated with numbness and pain in the feet, legs, arms or hands.

Osteoarthritis of the Spine. A common type of arthritis, osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease affecting the back, hands, hips, knees and neck. Osteoarthritis can be attributed to the wearing and tearing of the cartilage with lesser repair process. Other factors also include age, genetics, weight as well as previous injuries cased by strenuous physical activities.

Ankylosing Spondylitis. Ankylosing and Spondylitis mean stiffness of the joint and inflammation or defect of the vertebrae, respectively. Both conditions lead to spine immobility which makes it difficult for you to move properly. In ankylosing spondylitis, the tendons and ligaments are inflamed which can cause bone damage. However, the body heals naturally with the growth of a new bone that fuses with the spine. The spine curves forwards as the fusion progresses over time.