Chronic Back Pain
Low back pain refers to pain that you feel in your lower back. You may also have back stiffness, decreased movement of the lower back, and difficulty standing straight. Low back pain that is long-term is called chronic low back pain.
Causes
Low back pain is common. Almost everyone has back pain at some time in their life. Often, the exact cause of the pain cannot be found.
A single event may not have caused your pain. You may have been doing many activities, such as lifting the wrong way, for a long time. Then suddenly, one simple movement, such as reaching for something or bending from your waist, leads to pain.
Many people with chronic back pain have arthritis. Or they may have extra wear and tear of the spine, which may be due to:
- Heavy use from work or sports
- Injuries or fractures
- Surgery
You may have had a herniated disk, in which part of the spinal disk pushed onto nearby nerves. Normally, the disks provide space and cushion in your spine. If these disks dry out and become thinner and more brittle, you can lose movement in the spine over time.
If the spaces between the spinal nerves and spinal cord become narrowed, this can lead to spinal stenosis. These problems are called degenerative joint or spine disease.
Other Causes of Chronic Back Pain
Other possible causes of chronic low back pain include:
- Curvature of the spine, such as scoliosis or kyphosis
- Medical problems, such as fibromyalgia or rheumatoid arthritis
- Piriformis syndrome, a pain disorder involving a muscle in the buttocks called the piriformis muscle
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Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is chronic back pain?
Chronic back pain is lower-back pain that persists for a long period and may be accompanied by stiffness, reduced movement, or difficulty standing straight. It can develop due to several underlying causes, including spinal wear and tear, injuries, disc problems, or other medical conditions.
2. What are the common causes of chronic back pain?
Chronic back pain can have different causes, including arthritis, spinal degeneration, previous injuries or fractures, heavy physical activity, surgery, herniated discs, and spinal stenosis. Conditions such as scoliosis, kyphosis, fibromyalgia, and piriformis syndrome may also contribute to back pain.
3. When should I consult a specialist for chronic back pain?
If back pain continues for a long time, keeps returning, affects your daily activities, or is associated with stiffness and restricted movement, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and guidance.
4. Can chronic back pain be treated without surgery?
Treatment depends on the underlying cause and severity of the condition. Many cases can be managed with appropriate non-surgical approaches, which may include medical evaluation, physiotherapy, lifestyle modifications, and other treatments recommended according to the individual’s condition.
5. Can a slipped or herniated disc cause chronic back pain?
Yes. A herniated disc occurs when part of a spinal disc pushes onto nearby nerves, which can contribute to back pain and other symptoms. Degenerative changes in the discs can also reduce spinal movement over time.