What Causes Lower Back Pain?

Introduction

Lower back pain is one of the most common reasons people visit a doctor.

It can affect daily activities like sitting, walking, or sleeping—and often causes anxiety about whether something serious is wrong.

The good news is that most lower back pain is treatable once the cause is understood.

What Causes Lower Back Pain?

• Muscle strain from overuse or sudden movement
• Poor posture or long hours of sitting
• Slipped (herniated) disc pressing on nerves
• Age-related wear and tear of the spine
• Weak core muscles or lack of physical activity

What Is Lower Back Pain?

Lower back pain refers to discomfort or stiffness felt in the area below the ribs and above the hips.

It may be mild and short-lasting or persistent and activity-limiting.

Lower back pain can be:

• Acute (lasting a few days to weeks)
• Chronic (lasting more than 3 months)

Common Causes of Lower Back Pain

1. Muscle Strain or Ligament Sprain

• Sudden bending or lifting
• Heavy physical work
• Sports injuries

This is the most common cause and usually improves with rest and care.

2. Poor Posture

• Long sitting hours
• Slouching
• Improper workstation setup

Poor posture puts continuous stress on spinal muscles and discs.

3. Slipped Disc (Herniated Disc)

• The spinal disc bulges out
• Presses on nearby nerves
• Can cause back pain with leg pain or numbness

Common in people aged 30–60 years.

4. Age-Related Degeneration

• Disc dehydration
• Joint wear and tear
• Reduced flexibility

More common after the age of 40.

5. Weak Core Muscles

• Poor abdominal and back muscle strength
• Lack of exercise

Weak support leads to repeated strain and pain.

Symptoms That May Accompany Lower Back Pain

• Stiffness in the lower back
• Pain worsening with movement
• Pain radiating to buttocks or legs (may indicate sciatica)
• Tingling or numbness (nerve involvement)

When Should You Worry About Lower Back Pain?

Seek medical attention if pain:

• Lasts more than 2–3 weeks
• Spreads to legs with numbness or weakness
• Is severe and worsening
• Occurs after a fall or injury
• Is associated with bladder or bowel issues

How Is the Cause Diagnosed?

Diagnosis usually includes:

• Detailed medical history
• Physical examination
• Imaging tests (X-ray or MRI) only if required

Most patients do not need immediate scans.

Treatment Options for Lower Back Pain

Conservative Treatment (First Line)

• Rest and activity modification
• Pain-relief medications
• Physiotherapy
• Posture correction

Advanced Treatment (If Needed)

• Targeted spinal injections
• Specialized spine rehabilitation
• Surgery (only in selected cases)

For persistent pain, consider consulting Dr. Vishal Kundnani for minimally invasive spine surgery options.

Can Lower Back Pain Be Prevented?

Yes. Prevention includes:

• Regular exercise
• Core strengthening
• Maintaining healthy weight
• Correct sitting and sleeping posture

Frequently Asked Questions

Is lower back pain common?

Yes, most adults experience it at least once in their lifetime.

Can stress cause lower back pain?

Yes, stress increases muscle tension and can worsen pain.

Is walking good for lower back pain?

Yes, gentle walking helps improve blood flow and recovery.

Does back pain always mean disc problem?

No. Most back pain is due to muscle or posture issues.

Call to Action

If your lower back pain is persistent, worsening, or affecting your daily life, an early evaluation by a spine specialist can help identify the cause and guide proper treatment. Consult Dr. Vishal Kundnani at Bombay Hospital or Lilavati Hospital in Mumbai. Book your consultation today for expert diagnosis and personalised back pain treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice.