Causes of back pain

Back pain may occur in any region of the back from the base of the skull to the hips and is usually a symptom of stress or damage to your ligaments, muscles, nerves, discs or other supporting structures in the spine.  You can find out more information on how the spine is constructured and how it works in our Back Pain Facts section.

Back pain

You're more likely to develop back pain if you:

• stand, sit or bend down for long periods
• are static for prolonged periods
• carry out heavy/repetitive physical work
• suffer a sports injury
• have a trip or fall
• suffer from depression, stress or anxiety
• are obese

Understanding the cause of your back pain is essential for ensuring you receive the correct back pain treatment. Below are some of the main causes of back problems:

Lower back strain

Lower back strains are the most common causes of lower back pain in the world. They occur when our muscle fibres are stretched abnormally or torn. Our ligaments (the tough bands of tissue that hold the bones in our back together) can become torn from their attachments, resulting in a lumbar sprain.

The prognosis and back pain treatment methods are generally the same for both lower back strains and lumbar sprains.  The Back Pain Relief section includes various techniques you can carry out to reduce your back pain.  There are also six Lower Back Pain Exercises in this secion, provided by Martin Haines, Biomechanics Coach & UK Leading Physiotherapist, DipRGRT MCSP SRP MBC MBCA. 

Herniated Disc

A herniated disc is another common back problem. Herniated disc symptoms include leg pain, back pain or weakness of the muscles in the lower back. The spinal disc is soft and elastic when we are young, but as we get older the disc becomes more rigid. When this happens, the spinal disc can rupture, pushing the disc outside its normal position.

The treatment methods of herniated discs can vary depending on the nature and stage of the symptoms, age and level of activity of the patient. Generally, herniated disc treatment includes rest, ice and heat therapy, exercises, medication and surgery in severe cases.  Our Back Pain Relief section describes these treatment methods in more detail.

The Dynaspine Back Support provides essential control to reduce the load placed on the discs and vertebrae. The unique, flexible plates allow your muscles to move and become stronger, minimising further injury to the spinal nerves and discs.  You can purchase this portable, lightweight back support online today.  Visit the Dynaspine Back Support page to place your order today!

Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis or brittle bone disease weakens the bones in the body. Acute back pain can arise when a fracture in the hip or spine occurs. Bone density checks can highlight if osteoporosis is developing in your body. These tests can also be used to analyse the progression of osteoporosis.

In many cases where fractures have occurred, it is recommended that exercise, medication and calcium are used for back pain relief. These are also helpful for preventing further back pain in the future. Fractures usually heal in 8 to 12 weeks, however if you have had a fracture, you are more likely to experience another one in the future.

As many cases of back pain are resulting from our sedentary working life that many of us have adopted, back problems such as osteoporosis are increasing. Help is at hand, the Dynaspine Back Support and Dynaspine Chairs have a unique design that encourage movement whilst in the seated position and provide support where you need it most. The Dynaspine Back Support is lightweight and easy to carry to almost anywhere such as in your car, on holiday, to work, to your friend’s house and more!

Sciatica

Sciatica is caused when the sciatic nerve becomes compressed or irritated. Take a look at more information on sciatica including sciatica symptoms and sciatica treatment methods.

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