From Strain to Spine Issues: Understanding Back Pain Causes
                     Common Causes of Lower 
Back Pain
And When to See a Doctor
Nearly 80% of adults experience back pain at some point in their 
lives, making it one of the most common musculoskeletal problems 
globally. Understanding causes and knowing when to seek help is 
essential for effective treatment.
Understanding Your Lower Back
The lumbar spine supports the upper body and allows 
flexibility for movement while protecting nerves that 
run from the spine to the legs.
Its complex structure involves muscles, ligaments, 
discs, joints, and nerves—making it prone to injury and 
strain. Pain can range from mild ache to severe 
discomfort limiting daily activities.
Leading Causes of Lower Back 
Pain
Muscle or Ligament Strain Herniated Discs
Overuse or sudden injury from When discs bulge or rupture, they 
heavy lifting, improper posture, or press on nerves causing sharp 
abrupt twisting movements. Most pain and sciatica—radiating pain 
common in those with poor core down the legs.
strength.
Degenerative Disc Disease
With aging, discs lose water content and flexibility, leading to chronic 
pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility.
Additional Risk Factors
Spinal Arthritis Poor Posture & Sedentary Lifestyle
Osteoarthritis can narrow the spinal canal Prolonged sitting and minimal activity put pressure 
(stenosis), causing persistent pain, numbness, or on the lumbar spine. Poor desk ergonomics and 
weakness in lower back and legs. slouching significantly contribute to back problems.
Osteoporosis Other Medical Conditions
Weak, brittle bones can lead to spinal fractures Less commonly, infections, kidney stones, or spinal 
causing sudden and severe lower back pain. tumors may present with lower back pain requiring 
immediate evaluation.
When to See a Doctor
Warning Signs That Require Medical Attention
Persistent Pain
Pain lasting more than 2–3 weeks despite self-care measures.
Radiating Symptoms
Pain radiating down the leg or causing numbness and tingling.
Systemic Symptoms
Unexplained weight loss or fever accompanying back pain.
Neurological Changes
Sudden leg weakness or difficulty controlling bladder or bowel function.
Trauma-Related Pain
Severe pain following an accident, fall, or injury.
Skilled back specialists can provide comprehensive evaluation through physical examination, imaging tests, and advanced diagnostic tools.
Treatment Options
Non-Surgical Surgical Treatments
Treatments
Surgery is considered only when 
Physiotherapy: conservative treatments fail. 
Strengthening exercises, Procedures include:
stretching, and posture 
• Discectomy
correction
• Laminectomy
Medications: Anti-
• Spinal fusion
inflammatory drugs and 
muscle relaxants Minimally invasive options ensure 
Lifestyle Modifications: faster recovery and less 
Weight management and postoperative discomfort.
ergonomic adjustments
Injections: Corticosteroid 
injections for nerve irritation
Prevention Strategies
Preventing back pain is often more effective than treating it later. Here are proven strategies:
Maintain Proper Posture Stay Physically Active Use Ergonomic Support
Keep correct alignment while Regular exercise, especially Invest in supportive furniture 
sitting, standing, or lifting to core-strengthening activities, and mattresses designed for 
reduce spinal stress. supports spinal health. spinal alignment.
Maintain Healthy Avoid Smoking
Weight
Smoking accelerates spinal 
Reduce stress on the spine disc degeneration and 
by keeping body weight impairs healing.
within healthy ranges.
Key Takeaways
Know the Causes Recognize Warning Signs Seek Expert Care
Understanding lower back pain Persistent pain, radiating Timely diagnosis and 
causes—from muscle strain to symptoms, or neurological personalized treatment plans 
disc problems—is the first step changes require prompt medical ensure better outcomes and 
toward effective treatment. attention from a specialist. long-term relief.
Consulting a lower back pain doctor ensures timely diagnosis and management. Advanced facilities offer both 
conservative and surgical options, making it easier to regain mobility and improve quality of life.
Kolkata Pain Clinic
Phone no. Website
+91 9432226838