Table of Contents
What Disease Causes Back Pain
Introduction
Back pain is a frustratingly common experience, affecting up to 80% of adults at some point in their lives [1]. The discomfort can range from a dull ache to a sharp, debilitating pain. While the occasional twinge might be due to a simple strain, persistent or severe back pain can signal an underlying medical condition. This article delves into various diseases that can cause back pain, helping you understand the potential causes and the importance of seeking medical evaluation for persistent pain.
Musculoskeletal Causes Of Back Pain
Musculoskeletal problems are the most common culprits behind back pain. These issues affect the muscles, ligaments, bones, and nerves of the back. Here are some frequent offenders:
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Muscle Strains And Sprains:
Overexertion, improper lifting techniques, or awkward postures can strain or sprain back muscles or ligaments. These injuries typically cause localized pain and stiffness that improve with rest and proper care [2].
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Spinal Disc Herniation:
The discs between your vertebrae act as cushions. A herniated disc occurs when the soft inner core bulges outward, potentially pressing on a nerve and causing pain, numbness, or weakness that radiates down the leg (sciatica) [3].
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Degenerative Disc Disease:
With age, the discs in your spine naturally lose water content and become less flexible. This can lead to pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility in the back [4].
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Spondylosis:
This is a general term for age-related wear and tear of the spine, including the formation of bone spurs that can impinge nerves and cause pain [5].
Inflammatory Diseases Causing Back Pain
Certain inflammatory diseases can target the structures of the spine, leading to back pain and other symptoms. Here are two notable examples:
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Ankylosing Spondylitis:
This chronic inflammatory disease primarily affects the joints in the spine, causing pain, stiffness, and progressive fusion of the spinal joints [6].
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Rheumatoid Arthritis:
While rheumatoid arthritis typically affects the joints in the hands and feet, it can also involve the spine, causing pain, inflammation, and joint damage [7].
Other Diseases Causing Back Pain
Back pain can also be a symptom of various other medical conditions:
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Kidney Stones:
The sharp pain caused by kidney stones can sometimes radiate to the lower back [8].
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Endometriosis:
This condition involves the growth of uterine tissue outside the uterus, and it can sometimes cause back pain [9].

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Tumors:
While less common, tumors in the spine or surrounding tissues can also cause back pain [10].
Additional Tips For Back Pain Sufferers
If you experience back pain, here are some tips to manage it:
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Apply Heat Or Ice:
Heat can relax muscles, while ice can reduce inflammation. Experiment to see which provides relief.
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Maintain Good Posture:
Practice proper posture while sitting, standing, and lifting to reduce strain on your back.
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Engage In Regular Exercise:
Regular exercise strengthens back muscles and improves flexibility, promoting spinal health.
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Seek Professional Help:
If your back pain is severe, persistent, or accompanied by other symptoms, consult a healthcare professional for diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) On Back Pain and Diseases
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How Can I Tell If My Back Pain Is Serious?
Red flags for serious back pain include pain that radiates down the leg (sciatica), numbness or weakness in the legs, loss of bowel or bladder control, fever, or a history of cancer. If you experience any of these symptoms, seek immediate medical attention [11].
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What Tests Can Diagnose The Cause Of My Back Pain?
Your doctor might recommend X-rays, MRI scans, or CT scans to visualize the bones, discs, and nerves in your spine. Blood tests can also help rule out certain underlying conditions [12].
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What Are The Treatment Options For Back Pain Caused By Disease?
Treatment depends on the specific disease causing the pain. It may involve medications, physical therapy, injections, or even surgery depending on the severity of the condition [13].
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Can Back Pain Be Prevented?
While not always preventable, maintaining good posture, exercising regularly, and practicing safe lifting techniques can all help reduce your risk of back pain [14].
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Are There Alternative Therapies That Can Help With Back Pain?
Alternative therapies like acupuncture, massage therapy, and yoga can offer some relief from back pain, though research on their long-term effectiveness is ongoing [15].
Conclusion
Back pain can arise from various sources, with musculoskeletal issues being the most common culprits. However, back pain can also be a symptom of underlying diseases. This article has explored a range of diseases that can cause back pain, highlighting the importance of seeking medical evaluation for persistent or severe pain. Early diagnosis and proper treatment can help manage the underlying condition and improve your overall well-being. Remember, back pain is not something to ignore. By understanding the potential causes and taking proactive steps, you can work towards a healthier, pain-free back.
References
- [1] National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. (2020). Low Back Pain Fact Sheet. Retrieved from https://www.ninds.nih.gov/sites/default/files/migrate-documents/low_back_pain_20-ns-5161_march_2020_508c.pdf])
- [2] Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. (2020). Muscle strains. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/muscle-strains/symptoms-causes/syc-20450507
- [3] Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. (2020). Herniated disk. Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CVMcDjRGXyI
- [4] Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. (2020). Degenerative disk disease. Retrieved from https://newsnetwork.mayoclinic.org/discussion/mayo-clinic-q-and-a-what-is-degenerative-disk-disease/
- [5] Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. (2020). Spondylosis. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/ankylosing-spondylitis/symptoms-causes/syc-20354808
- [6] Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. (2021). Ankylosing spondylitis. Retrieved from https://mcpress.mayoclinic.org/living-well/ankylosing-spondylitis/
- [7] Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. (2021). Rheumatoid arthritis. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/rheumatoid-arthritis/symptoms-causes/syc-20353648
- [8] Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. (2020). Kidney stones. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/kidney-stones/multimedia/kidney-stones/img-20005738
- [9] Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. (2020). Endometriosis. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/endometriosis/symptoms-causes/syc-20354656
- [10] American Cancer Society. (2022). Spinal cord tumors. Retrieved from https://www.cancer.org/cancer/types/brain-spinal-cord-tumors-adults.html
- [11] American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. (2020). When to See a Doctor for Back Pain. Retrieved from https://orthoinfo.aaos.org/en/diseases–conditions/low-back-pain/
- [12] Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. (2020). Back pain. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/back-pain/symptoms-causes/syc-20369906
- [13] National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases. (2020). Low Back Pain. Retrieved from https://www.niams.nih.gov/health-topics/back-pain/basics/diagnosis-treatment-and-steps-to-take
- [14] Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. (2020). How to prevent back pain. Retrieved from https://health.gov/myhealthfinder/healthy-living/safety/prevent-back-pain
- [15] National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. (2016). Low Back Pain. Retrieved from https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/tips/things-to-know-about-chronic-low-back-pain-and-complementary-health-approaches
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