Back Pain Part 2

Causes of Back PainAnything that puts pressure on the back muscles or nerves can cause pain; and any illness or damage to the spine can also cause pain. Though back pain is one of the most common health problems in America, its cause is often unidentified. The majority of acute back pain problems, however, are most likely due to minor strains, sprains, spasms and overuse (National Library of Medicine, 2001; University of Washington Department of Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine, 2002), and can be exacerbated by emotional stress, which slows the rate of recovery (University of Washington Department of Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine, 2002).

Muscle Spasms and Strains

Muscle strains and spasms are thought to be the most common causes of back pain (Cluett, 2001; National Library of Medicine, 2001). An awkward movement of the back (even when sneezing, coughing, bending to
tie a shoe, or incorrectly lifting a heavy object) can cause a muscle spasm. A muscle spasm causes the back to lock up and can cause severe pain. Muscle spasms tend to get better over time; severe cases can be treated with physical therapy and medication (National Library of Medicine, 2001). Strained muscles, tendons, or ligaments or inflamed joints may cause pain along the spine (Mayo Clinic, 2000). If the back is strained, soreness or stiffness may develop over time or immediate pain may be felt (Mayo Clinic, 1997).

Herniated Disc

A herniated disc, also called a ruptured invertebral disc or slipped disc, is among the most painful back problems, but is also one of the easiest to identify. Though vertebral discs don’t actually slip, normal
wear and tear or strain can cause a disc to bulge or rupture (herniate) into the spinal canal, pressing on the nerve roots. A herniated disc can cause back pain and muscle spasms, but more often causes sciatic pain - severe pain spreading down one leg and often into the foot (Mayo Clinic, 1997; University of Washington Department of Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine, 2002). A herniated disc can usually be detected with
physical examination alone, but sometimes may require the use of computerized axial tomography (CAT)
scan or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to confirm diagnosis (see What to Expect During Diagnosis section for more information) (University of Washington Department of Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine, 2002).

Sciatica

Compression or inflammation of nerves in the lower back or buttocks can cause sciatica, named after the sciatic nerve that extends down the leg from the hip to the heel. About 10 in 100 people with back pain will experience sciatica. Sciatica may cause pain radiating from the back down through the buttock to the
lower leg. Tingling, numbness, or muscle weakness may also accompany nerve compression. Any activity that exerts pain on the spine can worsen sciatica, including sneezing and coughing, but pain usually resolves on its own. Severe nerve compression, however, can cause progressive muscle weakness (Mayo Clinic, 1997).