4 minute read
Are you constantly changing your plans because of lower back pain? While occasional pain isn’t a big burden, chronic pain can be more disruptive. And you can’t always blame a poor lifting technique or sudden awkward movement when back pain doesn’t go away.
If you’re looking for relief, you need to know what’s contributing to your pain. Read on as we unpack the hidden reasons behind chronic lower back pain.
Understanding What’s Causing the Pain
While muscle strain might contribute to back pain problems, there are other causes to consider, too. Especially when pain lasts for weeks or even months, you could be dealing with more than just achy muscles.
Keep in mind that the lower back supports and provides structure throughout the day. It manages the weight from your upper body and lets you twist and bend. In short, the lower back is critical for mobility and control, and ongoing stress can wear it down.
Considering Disc Degeneration
As you age, the discs between the vertebrae in your spine wear down. These discs are meant to act as shock absorbers, but they lose their rubbery flexibility over time due to dehydration. As a result, you’ll start feeling more stiffness and pain.
The discs narrow and shrink, and they can no longer serve as effective cushions. You’ll feel the pain in your lower back or potentially your neck. In some cases, it’s possible to develop herniated discs, which are discs that have ruptured and penetrated nerves.
Dealing with Bone Spurs and Spondylosis
Bone spurs can contribute to lower back pain, as well. Extra bone forms as a response to pain, and the results can be painful. The extra bone can rub against nerves, making it harder to move comfortably.
Lumbar spondylosis refers to arthritis of the spine, and it is an age-related spinal condition common in people over the age of 60. Left untreated, it can cause bulging or herniated discs. And it can cause numbness or back pain that worsens with movement.
Because these conditions can progress over time, it’s important to seek local medical guidance early. If you’re in New Jersey for example, exploring treatment for spondylosis through providers such as NU-Spine can help you better understand options ranging from non-operative care to minimally invasive procedures that support long-term mobility and confidence.
Looking at Previous Injuries
Did you suffer a serious injury years ago? It may be the source of the lower back pain you’re feeling today. Whether you fell on a hike or tried to lift too many heavy objects, you might be suffering the repercussions of those experiences.
The pain might have disappeared for a little while. But if the injury didn’t heal properly or you have a lot of scar tissue, you could still be dealing with tightness and pain. Some areas may remain inflamed for years after the original injury.
Coping with Stiff Ligaments
When ligaments are stretched too far or torn, you’ll feel the impact. Maybe you overexerted yourself to lift a heavy box, or you might have poor posture. These situations can cause ligaments, which are tough connective tissues between vertebrae, to stiffen.
You may feel sore in the mornings. Your lower back may have a limited range of movement. And, ultimately, you won’t be able to move as freely as you’d like.
Uncovering the Source of Lower Back Pain
Chronic lower back pain can feel debilitating when you’re trying to make the most of each day. You could be feeling the consequences of an injury from years ago. But you may also be dealing with degenerative discs, bone spurs, or stiff ligaments.
Working to uncover the cause of lower back pain can help you seek effective treatments. Be aware of your body, and take action to help it feel strong and secure.
