Causes & Treatments of a Lower Backache

Injury that occurs to your discs, ligaments and muscles are the most common causes of lower back pain. When you experience back pain, your body tries to compensate by using different muscles to perform the same daily activities, and this can often strain other muscles, compounding your pain and injury. Over time, an untreated injury can make you more prone to further injury or back problems.

Herniated Disc

• A heavy strain from lifting or repetitive movements can cause a herniated disc that results in lower back pain.

Osteoarthritis

• Lower back pain can be caused by disk degeneration known as osteoarthritis. This disorder typically happens as you age.

Spinal Stenosis

• As you age, your spinal canal may narrow. This is called spinal stenosis, and it can be a cause of lower back pain.

Compression Fracture

• An accident or fall that causes compression of the back may result in a fracture of vertebrae, which in turn will cause lower back pain

Bacterial Infection

• A bacterial infection can occur in your spinal cord, bones or disks as the result of an injury, surgery or injection treatments. This can be the cause of lower back pain.

Treatment Options

• Surgery is rarely beneficial, and treatment options range from acetaminophen and ibuprofen, hot packs and rest to physical therapy. It is typically advised to rest for a brief period of time, but movement can help muscles maintain their strength and aid in the healing process.