Back pain varies from a temporary aching discomfort most often in the morning to severe pain that makes it difficult or impossible to move. Back pain frequently occurs in the lower part of the back, called the lumbar region. This area of the spine consists of five vertebrae and is the most common region for back pain, partly because of the greater stress it bears.
Osteoarthritis
As the cartilage between the vertebrae becomes worn, chronic disc degeneration occurs, causing persistent back pain. An X-ray will often show osteoarthritis in people with back pain. Osteoarthritis can cause stiffness, pain and restricted movement. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, people with osteoarthritis often describe the pain as a deep, aching sensation. Stiffness occurs mainly after periods of inactivity, and it can take several minutes of activity to regain movement.
Disc Prolapse
Between each vertebra is a pad of cartilage called a disc, which acts like a shock absorber and a ball bearing of sorts, allowing limited movement of the spine. Each disc has a hard outer region and a soft center. Through wear and tear or pressure, the center may rupture and protrude through the outer layer, sometimes called a "slipped disc," and press on a ligament or on a spinal nerve root, causing back pain.
Kidney Infection
Pyelonephritis is a kidney infection, usually the result of a urinary tract infection. It may become severe enough to cause lower left or right back pain. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, symptoms of pyelonephritis include pain and tenderness in the side of the lower part of the back, as well as fever, chills, abdominal pain, fatigue, blood in the urine and pain when urinating.
Sciatica
Sciatica is pain that radiates along the sciatic nerve. The pain, weakness and numbness extend from the buttocks down the back of the thigh and leg to the calf or foot. A swollen disc or prolapse puts pressure on the sciatic nerve or its roots, usually causing sciatica. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, degenerative disc disease, spinal stenosis or a pelvic injury can also cause sciatica.
Injured Ligaments or Muscles
An injury to the ligaments or muscles attached to the vertebrae may cause pain in one area of the back. Sudden, forceful movements or strenuous lifting may injure the ligaments and muscles in the back. Damage to any of the structures of the spine---vertebrae, discs, ligaments or muscles, may cause a muscle to go into spasm, resulting in severe back pain. Muscle spasms may cause the back to pull to one side, causing restricted and painful movements.
