Back pain can stem from a variety of causes ranging from underlying disorders and diseases to poor posture or accidents, to name a few examples, notes Dr. Víctor Sandoval Sánchez, an orthopedic specialist in spine surgery at Centro Médico ABC.
Types of Back Pain
Within musculoskeletal disorders, there are more than 150 variations that affect the locomotor system. These range from sudden, short-term conditions—such as fractures, strains, or sprains—to chronic diseases that can lead to functional limitations and permanent disability.
Because of this wide range of disorders, back pain is one of the leading causes of disability worldwide, as well as a primary reason for doctor visits and work absenteeism.
It is estimated that eight out of 10 people will experience one or more episodes of back pain in their lifetime.
Types of back pain are categorized based on their origin, intensity, and duration. One of the most common is lumbar pain, or low back pain. Cervical spine pain is a type of upper back pain that occurs in the neck region and upper back. Additionally, there is chronic back pain, which refers to any pain that persists for more than three months.
Why Does My Back Hurt?
Given these factors, it is crucial to understand the different risk factors that can trigger back pain.
The primary causes of back pain are muscle strains and ligament sprains. These structures can become inflamed due to repetitive exercises or poor posture resulting from sitting incorrectly or lifting heavy objects.
Risk factors that can lead to back pain include:
- Arthritis: An inflammatory process of the joints. Osteoarthritis—the gradual wear and tear of joint cartilage—can also occur.
- Smoking: Heavy smoking can decrease blood circulation and cause inflammation in the spinal discs, which may ultimately compress nerves.
- Overweight and Obesity: Carrying excess weight leads to muscle weakness, which can cause disc bulging due to cartilage inflammation.
- Osteoporosis: Causes loss of bone density in the vertebrae, making them fragile and susceptible to fractures.
- Age: While aging itself is not a disease, people can begin to experience muscle weakness starting around age 30, which can result in back pain.
- Lack of Exercise: A sedentary lifestyle leads to weak back and abdominal muscles, which also contributes to poor sitting and standing posture.
- Psychological Factors: Anxiety and depression are considered risk factors for back pain, as both conditions often lead to physical inactivity.
Back Pain Symptoms
Although there are various symptoms associated with back pain, muscle spasms are considered the primary one. The pain is typically described as sharp, throbbing, or, in some cases, a burning sensation.
Once it sets in, the pain can radiate to the buttocks or legs and may sometimes be accompanied by numbness or tingling—as seen in sciatica, for example. These symptoms can be triggered or worsened by standing up, twisting, bending forward, or performing other everyday movements.
Generally, back pain should improve with conservative home care and rest. However, if the pain persists for more than two weeks, seeking medical attention for a proper diagnosis is essential.
Additionally, if your back pain is accompanied by numbness, a feeling of weakness, urinary or digestive issues, or unexplained weight loss, it is strongly recommended that you consult a physician to identify the underlying cause.
At the Spine Clinic at Centro Médico ABC, we provide specialized care. Contact us today!
