subject: Common Causes Of Lower Back Pain [print this page] Do you have back pain that is situated in the lower portion of your body, where your buttocks seems to meet the bottom of your spine? If that's the case, you may have an injury, disease, or chronic pain condition that needs attention. As the location where the upper half and the lower half of your body meet, this is a common area for problems to occur. That doesn't mean you know what caused the problem. If you want to treat it, it is a good idea to consider the various causes. Then, you can address the problem accordingly.
A Herniated Disc
One of the most common causes of back pain is a herniated disc. When this happens, a crack occurs in the spinal discs that create the spine. When this happens, a nerve can become pinched or otherwise stuck between the cracks. That can cause significant pain. This can happen for many reasons, including old age. It can also occur when you are putting too much pressure on this area of the body.
Degenerative Changes to the Spine
Another common reason for back pain are degenerative changes to the actual spinal column. The vertebrae that make up the spine become flatter as you get older. As they flatten, they become less flexible. When this happens, there is less cushioning for the discs to move easily. This can mean significant pain. This type of pain will often cause stiffness or weakness. Pressure can also be a common description with this type of ache.
Osteoporosis
As you get older, the bones of this area of the spine become weak. The bones are being depleted of calcium every day. As a result, the bones become fragile and more likely to splinter and crack. If you do a lot of lifting or you do other routine activities that involve the movement of these vertebrae, it's likely that you will have at least some decrease in mobility. Calcium supplements may serve as a precautionary measure to help avoid the development of osteoporosis.
Muscle Strains
Though pains in this area are often related to the spinal column, it can be the muscles on either side that are aching and causing you discomfort. These muscles can be overused, strained, and even severed through overuse or strain.
No matter what may be the cause of your back pain, there is often a treatment available. You should not go without seeking treatment. Your condition could worsen if left unchecked.
