Back pain is an extremely common condition. In fact, according to the American Association of Neurological Surgeons, 75 to 85 percent of Americans will experience back pain at some point in their lives. However, although it is a common ailment, this does not mean that you should have to accept that this pain is a regular part of your life.

At Strength Therapy, we are committed to providing our clients with lasting back pain relief solutions. We do this through our back pain relief program. This program is built around the idea of empowering individuals by giving them the resources and education they need to take matters into their own hands and effectively treat their back pain. Learn more about our Low Back Pain & Disc Injury Program here.

Before you can go about treating back pain, however, it helps to first be able to understand the source of your pain. While this is an assessment that may require the opinion of a medical professional, we would like to share with you some of the common causes of back pain to help you get the information you need.

Common Causes of Back Pain

Muscle Sprain or Strain

Sprains and strains are perhaps the most common source of back pain, especially in the lower back. Sprains are caused by the tearing of a ligament (this is the fibrous tissue that connects bones) while a strain refers to the tearing of a muscle or a tendon (the tissue that connects muscle to bone). With a sprain or strain, inflammation often follows, which can then cause pain and even muscle spasms. Like many types of back pains, sprains and strains can range from a slight ache to a debilitating pain. Along with pain and inflammation, people often also report muscle stiffness and a restricted range of motion.

Bulging and Ruptured Disc

Spinal discs are like shock-absorbing cushions between adjacent vertebrae. Over time, because of injuries, natural aging, weight gain, repetitive strain, overuse, or trauma, these discs can begin to deteriorate, causing them to bulge or slip. If a bulging or ruptured disc is not properly treated, this can lead to a full tear, which can compress nearby nerve roots. The pain often associated with bulging and ruptured discs includes a sharp pain that moves down into the groin, buttocks, and down one leg. This condition can also cause neurological problems like muscle weakness, tingling, and numbness.

Spine Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis of the spine is a condition where the cartilage of the joints and discs in the neck and back breakdown. As the cartilage wears away, a dull, aching pain often begins to form. This pain can also be accompanied by weakness or numbness in the legs or arms. Similarly, a popping sensation, referred to as crepitus, may also be felt as the joints begin rubbing against each other. In an effort to stabilize the joint, the body may produce bony growths that can compress nearby spinal nerve roots, causing tingling and numbness.

Sciatica

Sciatica refers to the pinching of the sciatic nerve. This compression or pinching is often caused by a bone spur or herniated disc. Because the sciatic nerve is the longest nerve in the body, there a number of symptoms that can be experienced. For instance, sciatica is a common culprit for lower back pain, hip pain, pain that worsens when sitting, burning or tingling down the leg, and other bodily pains. Injuries to the pelvis, buttocks, or thigh, as well as prolonged sitting, are all common causes of sciatica.

Spinal Stenosis

As you age, the spinal canal gradually becomes more constricted and narrowed. When it becomes too tight, nerve roots can become compressed and cause weakness, numbness, tingling, and other neurological symptoms. This condition is often caused by aging and arthritis as well as scoliosis.

Scoliosis

Scoliosis refers to when the spine curves and twists. It usually develops in childhood or during adolescence. Although cerebral palsy and muscular dystrophy are known to be linked to scoliosis, unfortunately, the exact cause of scoliosis is unknown. Because scoliosis can cause the spine to twist and curve, this can lead to potentially severe discomfort. However, most cases of scoliosis are rather mild. Scoliosis treatment includes both invasive and noninvasive procedures.

Let Strength Therapy Help With Your Back Pain

Back pain relief is something that is very important to Strength Therapy. In fact, our low back pain and disc injury program was designed by our founder after she experienced a nearly fatal back injury. By combining her personal experiences with effective rehabilitation exercises, she was able to develop a program that puts the power of healing in the hands of her clients. This program combines back pain relief education with a series of physiotherapy exercises. Learn more here and join the Strength Therapy program here.