The Most Common Back Problems

Did you know that 8 out of every 10 Americans will experience back pain in their lifetime, while 5% will go on to have chronic back issues? Back problems continue to heavily impact Americans of all ages, making it an important issue to understand. Because of how common back pain is, it is important for individuals to educate themselves on the different types of back problems and how they can be prevented or treated. Learn more about some of the most common back problems and what to expect.

Muscle Strains
One of the most common causes of back pain is muscle or ligament strains, which can be caused by a variety of things, including overexertion, trauma, or ongoing wear and tear. Strains can take place at any point but are more likely to occur when engaging in heavy lifting or repetitive motions that put an elevated strain on the area. They are also common among individuals with jobs that require manual labor, as repeated movements can lead to muscle or ligament strain. Individuals with other physical conditions that impact their daily movement may also experience muscle or ligament strains. While strains are often treated through rest and physical therapy, they are important to keep an eye on.

Bulging Discs
A back problem that has become more common in recent years is bulging discs. A person’s spine has small discs in between each vertebra that help protect them from rubbing together, as well as provide mobility within the spine. At times, a disc may begin to bulge, which means that it begins pushing through the vertebrae and can happen through trauma, repetitive strain, or unusual movement. Depending on the severity of the bulging disc, a person may experience pain that ranges from very mild to severe.

Arthritis
Arthritis is another problem that is commonly seen in people with back problems. In its most basic terms, arthritis is a disease that causes inflammation within the joints, resulting in pain, stiffness, and reduced range of motion. While there are over 100 different types of arthritis, it is common for the disease to cause mild to severe pain. Arthritis is a life-long disease, meaning an individual diagnosed with arthritis will have it for the rest of their lives. There are numerous lifestyle adjustments and medical treatments that can help manage a person’s symptoms.