Over 31 million Americans experience lower back pain, which is also the leading cause of disability in the world. If you have chronic pain in your lower back, you’re certainly not alone. Despite the prevalence of the condition it is often challenging to pinpoint its precise cause. However, symptoms may result from one or a combination of these three common issues.

What Are Some Common Causes of Lower Back Pain?

1. Muscle Strain

Muscle strains may occur due to a sudden injury or repetitive motion. For example, lifting a heavy object or sustaining a sports injury may immediately impact the lower back. However, simply maintaining poor posture over years may also lead to muscle strain.

2. Herniated Disc

Sometimes, the soft center of a lumbar disc in the back slips out of place, which impacts nearby nerves. This is called a herniated disc. Like with muscle strains, this condition may occur suddenly or over time. When it happens, the condition typically inflicts severe back pain. Sometimes, herniated discs can provoke nerve damage that leads to sciatica, which can cause numbness in the lower back, legs, and buttocks.

3. Degenerative Disc Disease

As people age, intervertebral discs in the back become more brittle. As the discs lose water, they become more vulnerable to tears and strains. This condition is known as degenerative disc disease, and it affects millions of Americans. These weakened discs tend to be particularly susceptible to herniation. In some cases, the disc can even collapse, which can lead to spinal stenosis: a condition that involves the narrowing of the canal in the spine that holds the nerve roots.  

If you experience frequent lower back pain, consult a local chiropractor for help. The team from Rasmussen Chiropractic in New Albany, IN, has been providing trusted chiropractic care for over 30 years. Through comprehensive, individualized treatment plans, the chiropractors help patients relieve pain and live well. To learn more, visit the website. If you would like to schedule an appointment, call today at (812) 949-2273.