Back pain can occur due to a number of possible reasons, including injuries, degenerative conditions, infections, and other causes.
Injuries
-
- Sprains, which are injuries to the ligaments that connect bones in the spine
- Strains, which are injuries to muscles or tendons
- Fractures, which can occur in vertebrae
- Herniated discs, which can occur when a disc compresses a nerve
Degenerative conditions
- Aging can cause the discs between vertebrae to break down, which can lead to arthritis or spinal stenosis
- Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis
Infections
- Infections of the spine, bladder, kidneys, or reproductive system can cause back pain
- Shingles can cause a painful rash along a nerve path
Other causes
- Obesity can put extra weight on the spine
- Poor posture can contribute to back pain
- Abnormal growth, such as a tumor or bone spur
- Problems of the vertebrae and bones that you were born with (congenital)
Back pain often gets better on its own. However, it can rarely be a sign of a serious problem such as a broken bone, cancer, or an infection.
