Back pain is a common condition that can affect people of all ages and lifestyles. While back pain can have various causes, certain medical conditions can contribute to the development of back pain. If you’re experiencing back pain, especially if it comes out of the blue, then you might be suffering from the conditions below.
Here are some of the medical conditions that can cause back pain:
1. Herniated Disc
Your spine is composed of a series of bones called vertebrae that are cushioned by soft, rubbery discs. A herniated disc happens when the soft tissue inside the disc pushes out through a crack in the outer layer of the disc. This can lead to pain and discomfort in the back.
2. Spinal Stenosis
This condition occurs when the spinal canal, which houses the spinal cord, narrows, placing pressure on the nerves in the spinal cord. This can cause back pain and other symptoms like relative weakness or numbness in the arms or legs.
3. Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis is a condition that occurs when the cartilage in your joints breaks down, causing the bone to rub against the bone. This can be the reason for pain and stiffness in the back, particularly in the lower back.
4. Scoliosis
Scoliosis is a mild to serious condition that causes the spine to curve to one side. This can lead to back pain, especially in the lower back.
5. Ankylosing Spondylitis
Ankylosing spondylitis is a kind of arthritis that primarily affects the spine. It causes inflammation and pain in the lower back and buttocks.
6. Fibromyalgia
Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition that leads to widespread pain and tenderness throughout the body. It can cause back pain as well as pain in other areas of the body.
7. Kidney Stones
Kidney stones are hard mineral deposits that formulate in the kidneys and can cause intense bouts of pain when they pass through your urinary tract. In some cases, kidney stones can cause back pain.
8. Urinary Tract Infection
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) can cause back pain due to inflammation and irritation of your bladder, kidneys, or ureters. It’s important to practice proper hygiene down there always to prevent bacteria from entering and infecting your urinary system!
9. Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis is a condition that can cause your bones becoming weak and brittle, increasing the risk of fractures. It can cause back pain as well as other symptoms such as loss of height and a stooped posture.
10. Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Inflammatory bowel disease, including conditions such as Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, can cause back pain in some people.
11. Endometriosis
Endometriosis is a relatively painful condition that occurs when tissue that is similar to the inner lining of the uterus forms on the outside too. It can lead to pain in the lower back plus a few other symptoms such as painful periods and infertility.
Conclusion
In summary, back pain can be due to a variety of medical conditions. While the causes of back pain can be complex, it is important to seek medical attention if you are experiencing regular or severe back pain. Your healthcare provider can help try to determine the cause of your back pain and give you recommendations for appropriate treatment options.
