Back pain is a common complaint, although it’s less frequently reported compared to issues like lower back, leg, or shoulder pain. When back pain does occur, it can understandably be concerning, especially when it’s severe or lasts for a prolonged period. While it could be a temporary issue, persistent or severe pain warrants further investigation.
So, what are the reasons for back pain? There are a variety of factors, including muscle problems, nerve compression, or even issues with internal organs. Let’s break it down into four main causes of back pain to help you better understand the issue and determine whether these symptoms may apply to you.
1. Muscle Issues
The most common cause of back pain is muscle-related problems. Overexertion from excessive physical activity, physical trauma, or external pressure can lead to muscle strains. For instance, sports involving rotational movements, such as golf or tennis, can place strain on the side and back muscles. This can lead to stiffness or soreness the day after a workout or after waking up from sleep.
Another common muscle-related issue is myofascial pain syndrome, which occurs when there is damage to the fascia, the connective tissue surrounding muscles. This condition frequently affects the neck and upper back areas, often causing tightness and discomfort. Pressing on the pain area tends to worsen the pain. Both overexertion and poor posture are common triggers for this condition.
2. Spinal Nerve Issues
Back pain can also result from pressure or compression of the nerves that run through the spine. Common conditions that cause this type of pain include herniated discs and spinal stenosis. While the underlying mechanisms of these two conditions differ, their symptoms can be quite similar. Initially, the pain is localized to the lower back, but over time, the pain may radiate upwards toward the upper back or downwards to the pelvis and legs, leading to a condition called radiculopathy, where pain and tingling are felt along the nerve pathway.
A herniated disc occurs when the soft nucleus between the vertebrae protrudes and compresses the nerves. Spinal stenosis occurs when the passageway for the nerves in the spine narrows, putting pressure on the spinal cord and the nerves that lead to the legs. Both conditions can lead to reduced sensation in the legs and, if left untreated, even paralysis, so prompt medical attention is necessary.
3. Internal Medical Conditions
Back pain may also be caused by issues with internal organs, especially those located near the back. For example, conditions like pancreatitis, pancreatic cancer, acute pyelonephritis, and abdominal aortic dissection can cause pain that radiates to the back.
When back pain is caused by an internal issue, it is often accompanied by other specific symptoms. These may include upper abdominal pain, chest pain, shortness of breath, nausea, vomiting, fever, chills, loss of appetite, and swelling in the lower extremities. If these symptoms are present, it is important to visit a gastroenterologist to identify the exact cause.
4. Other Factors
There are numerous other factors that can lead to back pain. One possibility is a skin-related issue, such as shingles. This viral infection, which affects the skin, can cause noticeable red rashes and blisters. If you see these symptoms along your back, shingles may be the cause of the pain.
Another cause could be a fracture in the bones, such as broken ribs. Fractured ribs often cause pain in the sides or back. Other potential causes of back pain include ankylosing spondylitis, degenerative arthritis, kidney stones, and tumors. It’s important not to make assumptions without proper medical evaluation.
What to Do When You Have Back Pain
If you experience back pain, the first step is to rest and stop any activity that could aggravate the pain. If there’s heat or swelling in the affected area, cold compresses can help. However, if the pain persists even after rest or becomes more intense, and especially if you experience chest pain, nausea, or tingling in your legs, it is important to seek medical attention.
Prevention and Proper Care
Back pain can have a wide range of causes, so there’s no single prevention method. However, if you engage in physical activities like strength training, golf, or tennis, it’s important to avoid overexerting yourself and to adjust the intensity of your exercise routine as needed. Stretching before exercise is also vital for maintaining flexibility and preventing strain.
For those who spend long periods sitting, maintaining good posture is key. Always ensure that your back is straight while sitting, and take breaks to stretch at least once an hour.
For older adults, recurring back stiffness or soreness may be an indication of degenerative arthritis or osteoporosis, both of which increase the risk of fractures. If you’re experiencing even mild pain, it’s a good idea to schedule a preventative check-up.
Lastly, while rest is important for relieving back pain, once you’ve recovered, regular exercise is essential for long-term back health. Strengthening the muscles supporting your spine can reduce the risk of back pain in the future. Regular physical activity also boosts immune function, helping prevent conditions like shingles and other internal medical issues that can cause back pain.