Muscle or Ligament Strain: Repeated heavy lifting or a sudden awkward movement can strain back muscles and spinal ligaments. Overactivity can also lead to strains and sprains that are painful and debilitating.
Bulging or Herniated Discs: The discs act as cushions between the bones (vertebrae) in your spine. The soft material inside a disc can bulge or rupture and press on a nerve, leading to back pain. However, it's worth noting that many people experience no symptoms from a herniated disc.
Arthritis: Osteoarthritis can affect the lower back. In some cases, arthritis in the spine can lead to a narrowing of the space around the spinal cord, a condition called spinal stenosis, which can cause pain.
Skeletal Irregularities: Conditions like scoliosis, a curvature of the spine, can lead to back pain, usually starting in middle age.
Osteoporosis: Your spine's vertebrae can develop compression fractures if your bones become porous and brittle.
Poor Posture: Chronic poor posture can contribute significantly to lower back pain, especially if you maintain poor posture while sitting for extended periods.
Sedentary Lifestyle: Lack of regular exercise leads to weak muscles in the back and abdomen, which might strain the spine. Regular physical activity is crucial in maintaining support for the spine.
Lifting Techniques: Improper techniques while lifting heavy objects can strain the back muscles and spinal ligaments. Always lift from the knees, keep objects close to your body, and do not twist when lifting.