Lower back pain is one of the most common medical complaints worldwide. Millions of people experience lower back pain at some point in their lives, and it is a leading cause of missed work and reduced daily activity.
While some episodes of back pain occur only once and resolve quickly, others may recur or persist over time. At Ocean Spine, we work with patients to identify the source of their symptoms and develop an appropriate treatment plan.
What Is Lower Back Pain?
Lower back pain is typically a symptom rather than a diagnosis itself. It can develop from a variety of conditions affecting the muscles, ligaments, discs, joints, or nerves of the spine.
Back pain is often categorized based on how long symptoms last:
- Acute back pain: Symptoms lasting less than six weeks
- Subacute back pain: Symptoms lasting six to twelve weeks
- Chronic back pain: Symptoms lasting longer than three months
In some cases, determining the exact cause of back pain can be challenging, even with imaging studies. However, several common spinal conditions are frequently associated with lower back pain.
Common Causes of Lower Back Pain
Muscle or Ligament Strain
Strains of the muscles or ligaments in the lower back are among the most common causes of back pain. Improper lifting, repetitive movements, or sudden strain can overstretch these tissues and lead to pain, stiffness, or muscle spasms.
Bulging or Herniated Discs
Spinal discs act as cushions between the vertebrae. When a disc bulges or herniates, it can irritate nearby nerves and cause pain in the lower back or radiating symptoms into the legs.
Arthritis
Degenerative changes in the spine can lead to arthritis of the facet joints. Over time, this can contribute to narrowing of the spinal canal, a condition known as spinal stenosis, which may cause back pain and nerve irritation.
Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis weakens the bones of the spine, making them more susceptible to compression fractures. These fractures can cause sudden or persistent lower back pain.
Spinal Alignment Conditions
Conditions that affect the alignment of the spine, such as scoliosis, may contribute to back pain in some individuals, particularly as degenerative changes occur with age.
Treatment Options for Lower Back Pain
Most cases of lower back pain improve with conservative treatment. Initial treatment may include:
- Activity modification
- Physical therapy
- Anti-inflammatory medications
- Heat or ice therapy
- Targeted spinal injections
Maintaining gentle activity is often recommended, as prolonged bed rest can slow recovery.
If symptoms persist despite conservative care, additional evaluation may be recommended. Advanced imaging, such as MRI, can help identify structural causes of back pain and guide treatment decisions.
At Ocean Spine, Dr. Pranay Patel evaluates each patient individually to determine the underlying cause of their symptoms and develop a personalized treatment plan. Both non-surgical and surgical options may be considered depending on the patient’s condition, symptoms, and overall health.
If you are experiencing persistent lower back pain, the team at Ocean Spine is here to help. Contact our office to schedule an evaluation and learn more about your treatment options.