We probably don’t have to tell you… Back pain is the worst. Whether it’s an acute pain from an injury or a slow, aching pain from bad posture, almost everyone at some point in their life has dealt with back pain. But what causes it? And why does it hurt so much? Back pain has many causes – and many ways in which pain manifests: dull, aching, throbbing, sharp, even burning pain. Understanding the common types of back pain can help you better know what might be causing your own pain. And how to manage it.

Mechanical Back Pain

Type of pain: dull, constant, stiffness, aching,

Mechanical back pain (also called Axial pain) is one of the most common types of pain. It is generally acute (short term), brought about by bad posture or lifting habits. These bad habits put a heavy strain on the vertebrae, discs, tendons and ligaments. Correcting this type of back pain is often as simple as correcting those bad habits and wearing corrective braces or supports. If left untreated, however, mechanical back pain can lead to more serious, chronic conditions down the road.

Herniated Disc

Type of pain: sharp, burning, shooting

Spinal discs are like cushions for the spine. They are located in between the spinal vertebrae and act as shock absorbers when we move. Sometimes, the  soft, inner layer of these discs leak out (or herniate), putting pressure on the surrounding nerves. This causes pain – and in surprising places. If the herniated disc is located near the top of the spine, the compressed nerve causes shooting pains along the shoulder and down the arms. This can also cause weakness and numbness as well. If the herniated disc is near the lower back (or lumbar region), the pain will follow the Sciatic nerve down through the legs. This type of pain is also referred to as sciatica. Doctors will also describe this pain as a “pinched nerve”. Nerves can also be pinched by inflammation of the spinal joints, as well as the tendons and ligaments in the lower back. This pain can be acute, or chronic, depending on the source of the injury. And, if left untreated, pinched nerves can cause permanent damage.

Inflammatory Back Pain

Type of pain: dull, constant, stiffness, aching,

Inflammation is a less common type of back pain, and sometimes difficult to diagnose. Inflammation caused by a form of arthritis called Ankylosing Spondylitis. It is an auto-immune disorder that causes the body to attack healthy tissue near the joints of the spine. This inflammation then presses on the surrounding nerves, causing pain in the back, or along the nerve path of the arms and legs (also known as radiographic pain).

Strains and Sprains

Type of pain: aching, sharp, stiffness

Back strains and sprains are an example of mechanical back pain, but are often caused by more than bad posture habits. Sudden back strain, such as falls or some types of sports injuries, can cause this type of back muscle pain.

Our back is supported by several key muscle groups. These sets of muscles stretch when we move. Sometimes, those muscles become over-extended and can even tear. When a muscle is stretched abnormally, it is called a strain. When a ligament (the tissue connecting the muscle to the bone) is torn, it is called a sprain. Both can be very painful. To avoid strains and sprains, always practice safe lifting techniques and stretch before performing any heavy physical activity.

Degenerative Disc Disease

Type of pain: sharp, radiating, stiffness, aching

As we move and bend around, our back’s vertebrae are cushioned by soft spinal discs. Over time these discs can wear out and lose their cushioning properties. This is called degenerative disc disease – and it often affects older patients over the age of 40. People experience pain from this disease in a wide variety of ways, but many experience pain in the lower back or neck regions. Managing this pain also varies from medication and physical therapy to surgery.

Premier Will Help You with Back Pain

Back pain is serious, so don’t ignore it. The reason it hurts so bad is because your body is telling you that something is wrong. We can help you manage your back pain and start you down the road to recovery. We have four convenient locations across Southeast Missouri (Cape Girardeau, Jackson, Perryville and Advance). Contact us today for a FREE pain evaluation.