Back Pain

Back pain is a general term, and many conditions can be the culprit for causing pain in the midback, lower back, hips, and sciatica-type pain. We will review the most common types we see and treat in our office.

The most common types of lower back pain are:

- Sprain/Strain

- Facet Disorders

- Lumbar Disc Disorders

- SI (Sacroiliac) Joint Dysfunction

Sprain/Strain

Sprain and strain are common musculoskeletal injuries affecting the lower back region. These injuries often occur due to sudden movements, overuse, poor posture, or improper lifting of heavy objects. While they share similarities, lumbar sprain refers to the stretching or tearing of ligaments, whereas lumbar strain involves the stretching or tearing of muscles and tendons in the lower back.

Common Symptoms:

  • Pain and stiffness in the back
  • Muscle spasms
  • Limited range of motion
  • Difficulty in standing up straight or walking
  • Pain that worsens with movement

Facet Disorders

Facet syndrome, also known as facet joint syndrome, is a condition characterized by inflammation, stiffness, and pain in the facet joints of the spine. These small joints, located between adjacent vertebrae, facilitate smooth movement and provide stability to the spine. Facet syndrome often develops as a result of degenerative changes, repetitive stress, injury, or poor posture, leading to irritation and inflammation of the facet joints.

Symptoms:

  • Persistent lower back pain, often worsened by certain movements or positions
  • Stiffness and reduced flexibility in the lower back
  • Radiating pain that may extend into the buttocks or thighs
  • Muscle spasms or weakness in the affected area
  • Difficulty standing up straight or walking for extended periods

Lumbar Disc Disorders

Lumbar disc pain, often referred to as discogenic pain, occurs when the intervertebral discs in the lower back become damaged or degenerated, leading to inflammation, irritation, and discomfort. These discs act as cushions between the vertebrae, providing support, flexibility, and shock absorption to the spine. Lumbar disc pain can result from various factors, including age-related wear and tear, disc herniation, spinal misalignment, or repetitive strain injuries.

Symptoms:

  • Sharp or dull pain in the lower back that may radiate into the buttocks, thighs, or legs
  • Numbness, tingling, or weakness in the affected area
  • Pain aggravated by certain movements, such as bending, twisting, or lifting
  • Difficulty sitting or standing for prolonged periods
  • Pain when waking up/getting out of bed
  • Pain that worsens with prolonged sitting or standing

SI Joint Dysfunction

Sacroiliac (SI) dysfunction refers to a condition where there is abnormal movement or misalignment of the sacroiliac joints, which are located at the base of the spine where the sacrum meets the pelvis. This dysfunction can lead to pain, stiffness, and instability in the lower back and buttocks. SI dysfunction may result from various factors, including trauma, pregnancy, repetitive stress, or degenerative changes.

Symptoms:

  • Dull, aching pain in the lower back or buttocks, often on one side
  • Pain that may radiate down the leg (resembling sciatica)
  • Stiffness or difficulty with certain movements, such as standing up from a seated position or climbing stairs
  • Pain aggravated by activities such as walking, running, or prolonged sitting
  • Instability or a feeling of the pelvis "giving way"