Back pain can arise from trauma to or overuse of muscles, tendons, nerves, vertebrae and discs. According to the Cleveland Clinic, most cases of chronic pain in the spine occur in the lower, or lumbar, region. The majority of work-related back injuries are due to muscle strain. Because back pain can come on suddenly or over time, patients don’t always recall one incident that triggered an injury. In fact, as the Cleveland Clinic notes, medical diagnoses are inconclusive 80 percent of the time.
Overuse Injuries
Back injuries from overuse do tend to have noticeable trigger events, such as “overdoing it” while gardening or working at home or on the job. Sports play, such as pitching in baseball, can also require repetitive motions that involve the back muscles and spine, causing chronic pain. The American Chiropractic Association reports that improper lifting technique or trying to lift too heavy a load for personal strength limits can cause a strain or vertebral dislocation, called a subluxation. Twisting motions, especially when lifting or carrying, are also common ways to hurt the back.
Accidental Falls
Slips on icy surfaces or wet flooring can stretch the back muscles and cause acute pain from muscle strain. The Mayo Clinic notes that high-heeled shoes can be hazardous to back health in this respect. Balance issues due to age, bone deformities or other physical problems can make falls and back injuries more likely. At work or at home, tripping over obstacles such as loose rugs or electrical cords can result in serious back pain.
Spinal Degeneration and Fractures
Overuse and accidental back injuries can also damage the spinal vertebrae. Severe chronic pain from muscle strains may mean that a small cracks have developed in the vertebrae or that the discs have sustained damage. The Cleveland Clinic calls this type of back pain mechanical in nature, as opposed to the muscular pain from strains. Cracks can develop in the bony portion of the spine from age-related degeneration or from a direct blow that causes fractures.
Poor Posture
Improper sitting or standing posture, often associated with working positions, can cause chronic pain in the back. The American Chiropractic Association lists leaning over desk work or straining to view a maladjusted computer screen as common causes of back problems.
Harmful sleep posture may be one reason for misdiagnosis by the patient or physician, because it is difficult to detect. Even one night of sleeping on the stomach or with too many pillows under the neck can cause acute pain, which may become chronic if these nightly habits continue.
