Lower back pain can be caused by a variety of problems with any parts of the complex, interconnected network of spinal muscles, nerves, bones, discs or tendons in the lumbar spine. Typical sources of low back pain include:

• The large nerve roots in the low back that go to the legs may be irritated

• The smaller nerves that supply the low back may be irritated

• The large paired lower back muscles (erector spinae) may be strained

• The bones, ligaments or joints may be damaged

• An intervertebral disc may be degenerating

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REASONS TO SEE A DOCTOR (The “Red Flags”):

• If your pain started with a big fall or accident and you fear a bone may be broken.

• New trouble urinating (since your back pain started).

• New leakage or incontinence of bowels (since your back pain started).

• Numbness around your groin or genitals.

• Weakness in your legs (NOTE: this refers to a true decrease in power, not just “weakness because of the pain).

• Persisting fever with back pain

• History of IV drug use.

• Unexplained weight loss.

• Drenching night sweats (bad enough you have to change your clothing).

• History of cancer (prostate, breast, or lung) and

• Your pain is constant over many weeks or months, even during the night or with rest.

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Exercises for your lower back: click here

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