Back pain: causes

Many people suffer from back pain. Usually, the origin of back pain is the skeletal system and the muscles that support it. Back pain may also be caused by kidney, gastrointestinal or cardiac disorders. It may be caused by other organs or by a side effect of other diseases.

Once someone has had back pain, it is likely to be experienced again. The longer back pain goes on, the worse it gets. This cycle can be stopped when you know a little about your back and how it works.

The spine is made up of stacked bones called the vertebrae. They are arranged in three natural curves that keep your body supported. Strong, flexible muscles and ligaments help maintain these curves. Soft cushions called discs act as shock absorbers between the bones. The nerves run through the holes in the center of the vertebrae and branch out to your body.

The bones, muscles, ligaments, nerves, or discs can cause back pain. Here's how:

• The bones of the spine can develop arthritis, get narrower (compress), or pinch nerves causing the nerve to become irritated. This normally produces a lot of pain.

• Discs can degenerate or lose their shape and support, or they can bulge or rupture.

• Muscles can fatigue and weaken, or become inflexible. A weak abdomen cannot help support your back. Obesity puts an additional stress on the back.

• Ligaments can be over-stretched and cause the bones to lose their support.

• Poor posture, incorrect body mechanics, stress, inactivity or overexertion can lead to back pain.

Good posture is necessary to keep the bones, nerves, muscles, ligaments and discs working well together. Good posture while you move at work or at play is called body mechanics. Learning good body mechanics will keep your back moving safely and efficiently. Keeping your muscles toned and exercised is the key to good body mechanics.

Doing too much activity, or doing too little, are both harmful to your back. If you exceed your limits, injury can result. On the other hand, a person who is out of shape will be unable to maintain good posture. This may result in undue stress to the spine. Emotional stress can make a back problem worse, contributing to muscle strains and muscle spasms.

Learn how to use your back smartly and it will last you a lifetime. If your back pain is not relieved, or continues after using exercises, or if it gets worse, see your healthcare provider.

Last Reviewed 2005

Disclaimer: This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to change as new health information becomes available. The information provided is intended to be informative and educational and is not a replacement for professional medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional.

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