After a long day of standing or walking, many people wake up with sore lower backs. However, if your spinal pain flares up on a regular basis, you may be experiencing a chronic condition. Here are just some of the causes of lower back pain that require professional care.

3 Possible Causes of Lower Spinal Pain

1. Repetitive Strain

If you regularly engage in the same physical motions, whether for your job, a hobby, or exercise, you may be at risk of a repetitive strain injury. For example, lifting heavy boxes for a moving company or twisting to swing a golf club can irritate the lower back.

The irritation can cause inflammation in your lower vertebrae, tendon strain, and muscle tension in the tissues that support your spine. In many cases, rest, stretching, and gentle restrengthening exercises may be an appropriate start to your recovery.

2. Osteoarthritis

As you age, you’ll become more prone to certain conditions, including osteoarthritis. This involves the deterioration of the discs and facet joints that connect the vertebrae in your spine.

Since the lower section of the spine bears the most weight, you'll likely feel pain there first. You might also feel like your lower back is unstable or not as supportive as it used to be.

3. Herniated Disc

The discs of your spine have durable exteriors but contain a soft gel inside that helps reduce friction between bones. If your lower back is subject to an injury, such as a car or sports accident, the disc exterior may break, causing the gel to seep out.

Rupturing a disc can be painful, and the contents of the gel will inflame the neighboring nerve roots, which can cause additional pain throughout the lower back.

If you’re experiencing spinal pain in the lower, mid, or upper back, turn to May Chiropractic & Rehabilitation in East Hartford, CT, for effective relief. This clinic offers a wide range of services, from chiropractic adjustments to MLS laser therapy, for patients throughout Hartford and Middlesex counties. These doctors have a holistic approach to pain management and can treat health concerns ranging from nutrition to nerve issues. To learn more about their services, visit the website, or call (860) 568-3900 to make an appointment.