Potential Causes of Lower Back Pain

Our spinal cord is made up of disks which are rubbery pads stacked between vertebrae. Doctors call it as invertebral disc, and it functions as a shock absorber, spacer and as a motion unit. When any section of spine dysfunctions, it causes lower back pain. Let's understand the problems which cause this pain:

·         Muscular Problems- It is observed as the most common cause of back pain. Muscle strain can occur due to lifting heavy weight, bending, or other intensive repetitive tasks which can put pressure on your back. Initially, muscular problems in the back tend to be painful; however, these heal gradually with time and light medications.

·         Degenerated Discs- Spinal discs are spongy pads (shock absorbers) sandwiched between vertebrae. When any of the vertebrates suffer damage, chronic pain develops. 

·         Lumbar Disc Herniation- This problem occurs when the spine suffers a tear, and the fibrous ring of the damaged disc allows the softly stuffed portion to bulge out. It can happen due to injury, heavy lifting or due to aging problems. 

·         Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction- This problem takes place at the joint connecting the bottom of lumbar spine and the top of the tailbone. Any dysfunction in this area can cause lower back or sciatica pain.

·         Spondylolisthesis- It causes severe chronic pain in the leg because one of the vertebrae has slipped forward and overlapped the below one suppressing the underlying nerve root.

·         Osteoarthritis- Also known as facet joint arthritis, it is one of the reasons for pain in lower back. When the cartilage covering the facet joints wears out and frayed due to aging or wear and tear, swelling in joints may develop. When the underlying nerves suffer pressure and limitation in range of motion due to the swelling, the condition is known as osteoarthritis.

·         Lumbar Stenosis- This condition develops when the spinal canal or nerve root canals start narrowing, thus squeezing the nerve endings. The reason spinal canal narrows is often because of bone spurs or joint swelling. It causes severe pain in legs and builds numbness. Even the patient may suffer difficulties in walking.

Spine Treatment in San Antonio

South Texas, Spinal Clinic, P.A. is one of the best clinics of spine treatment in town. They have experienced orthopedic doctors to treat conditions related to neck, back or joint pain. If you are suffering from any orthopedic condition, then book an appointment now.