Understanding Lower Back Pain: Causes and How to Find Relief

Lower back pain is a common issue that affects millions of people worldwide. Whether it's a mild ache or a debilitating condition, lower back pain can interfere with daily life, work, and overall well-being. At Brooklyn Pain Doctors, we understand how frustrating and limiting back pain can be, and we’re here to help.

In this blog, we’ll explore the most common causes of lower back pain, how to identify them, and what you can do to find relief.

Common Causes of Lower Back Pain

1. Muscle Strains and Sprains

One of the most common causes of lower back pain is muscle strain or ligament sprain. This can happen due to:

• Lifting heavy objects improperly
• Sudden twisting or awkward movements
• Overuse or repetitive motions
• Poor posture while sitting or standing

Symptoms:

• Sudden or gradual pain in the lower back
• Muscle stiffness and tenderness
• Difficulty moving or standing upright

Solution:

• Rest and avoid strenuous activities for a few days
• Apply ice packs to reduce inflammation
• Use over-the-counter pain relievers if needed
• Stretch and strengthen back muscles to prevent future injuries

2. Herniated or Bulging Discs

Spinal discs act as cushions between the vertebrae, but they can become damaged, bulge, or rupture. When this happens, they may press on nearby nerves, causing lower back pain.

Symptoms:

• Sharp, radiating pain down the legs (sciatica)
• Numbness, tingling, or weakness in the legs
• Pain that worsens with movement or prolonged sitting

Solution:

• Physical therapy and targeted exercises
• Anti-inflammatory medications
• In some cases, epidural steroid injections or minimally invasive procedures

3. Sciatica (Pinched Nerve Pain)

Sciatica occurs when the sciatic nerve, which runs from the lower back down the legs, becomes compressed or irritated. This condition is often caused by a herniated disc, spinal stenosis, or a bone spur.

Symptoms:

• Sharp, shooting pain down one side of the lower back and leg
• Numbness, tingling, or burning sensation in the leg or foot
• Weakness in the affected leg

Solution:

• Stretching and strengthening exercises
• Chiropractic care or physical therapy
• Pain management treatments such as injections or nerve blocks

4. Degenerative Disc Disease

As we age, the discs in our spine gradually wear down, losing flexibility and hydration. This condition, known as degenerative disc disease, can cause persistent lower back pain.

Symptoms:

• Chronic pain that worsens when sitting or bending
• Stiffness in the lower back
• Occasional flare-ups of severe pain

Solution:

• Low-impact exercises such as swimming or yoga
• Weight management to reduce stress on the spine
• Regenerative medicine treatments like PRP (platelet-rich plasma) therapy

5. Spinal Stenosis

Spinal stenosis is the narrowing of the spinal canal, which puts pressure on the nerves and leads to lower back pain. This condition is more common in older adults.

Symptoms:

• Pain that worsens when walking or standing
• Numbness or weakness in the legs
• Relief when sitting or leaning forward

Solution:

• Physical therapy and posture correction
• Pain management techniques such as epidural injections
• In severe cases, surgery may be necessary

6. Arthritis and Inflammation

Osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and other inflammatory conditions can cause chronic lower back pain by affecting the joints in the spine.

Symptoms:

• Stiffness and pain in the lower back, especially in the morning
• Swelling or tenderness in the affected area
• Gradual worsening of symptoms over time

Solution:

• Anti-inflammatory medications and supplements
• Physical therapy and regular exercise
• Lifestyle modifications such as a healthy diet and stress management

7. Osteoporosis and Compression Fractures

Osteoporosis weakens the bones, making them more prone to fractures. In the spine, this can lead to compression fractures that cause sudden or chronic lower back pain.

Symptoms:

• Sudden, severe pain after minor movements
• Loss of height over time
• Stooped posture

Solution:

• Calcium and vitamin D supplementation
• Weight-bearing exercises to strengthen bones
• Medications to improve bone density

8. Poor Posture and Sedentary Lifestyle

Sitting for long hours with poor posture can strain the lower back, leading to pain and stiffness. A lack of movement and exercise weakens the back muscles, making them more prone to injuries.

Symptoms:

• Dull, aching pain in the lower back
• Tightness and stiffness, especially after long periods of sitting
• Discomfort that improves with movement

Solution:

• Maintain proper posture while sitting and standing
• Use an ergonomic chair and workstation setup
• Take regular breaks to stretch and move around

When to Seek Medical Help for Lower Back Pain

While mild back pain can often improve with rest and home care, you should see a specialist if:
✅ Your pain lasts more than a few weeks
✅ You experience numbness, tingling, or weakness in the legs
✅ The pain is severe and disrupts daily activities
✅ You have trouble walking or maintaining balance
✅ There is sudden loss of bladder or bowel control (this could indicate a medical emergency)

At Brooklyn Pain Doctors, we offer personalized treatment plans to help you find relief from lower back pain. Our expert team uses advanced diagnostic tools and minimally invasive procedures to target the root cause of your pain.

Take the First Step Toward a Pain-Free Life!

If you're struggling with lower back pain, don’t wait for it to get worse. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and explore your treatment options.