Causes of Back Pain

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There are many possible causes of back pain, including:

Person with muscle and ligament pressure

Muscle strains. Poor posture, lifting heavy objects or sudden awkward movements may overstretch or tear the muscles in the back.

Bulging or herniated disc

Problems with the intervertebral discs. Discs act as cushions between the vertebrae. Over time, they can wear down, bulge or herniate, causing pain and pressure on the nerves, which may result in pain radiating to the arms or legs.

Low back pain

Arthritis. Osteoarthritis and other types of arthritis can affect the joints of the spine, causing stiffness and discomfort.

Back where musculoskeletal disorders are identified and treated.

Spinal stenosis. This is the narrowing of the spinal canal, which can compress the nerves and lead to pain, weakness, and numbness in the back and limbs.

Central nervous system and spinal cord with marked zones

Scoliosis and other spinal deformities. Abnormal curvature of the spine can place uneven strain on certain areas, resulting in chronic pain.

Person on the ground injecting heroin during relapse

Injuries or trauma. Falls, accidents or direct blows can damage the spine, muscles or ligaments, leading to acute pain.

Risk factors of Back Pain

Risk factors for back pain can be either avoidable or unavoidable. Where possible, avoidable risk factors should be reduced.

Unavoidable risk factors

Elderly man and woman with cane

Age. As people get older, spinal structures such as discs and joints naturally wear down, increasing the likelihood of back pain.

Woman with genetic vulnerability

Genetics. A family history of spinal problems may increase the risk of developing back pain.

Muscle discomfort in the back

Medical conditions. Disorders such as fibromyalgia, osteoporosis, arthritis, infections, tumours or neurological conditions may contribute to back pain.

Woman crying with anxiety and depression or minor illnesses

Psychological conditions. Depression and anxiety are strongly linked with chronic back pain, as they can affect pain perception and increase muscle tension.

Abdominal pain during pregnancy

Pregnancy. Weight gain and hormonal changes during pregnancy can put extra strain on the back, particularly in the lumbar region.

Avoidable risk factors

Exercising person with a down arrow indicating fatigue

Lack of exercise. A sedentary lifestyle weakens the core and back muscles, making lumbar pain more likely.

Scale with an arrow pointing upwards indicating a weight increase

Excess weight. Carrying extra body weight puts additional strain on the spine, which can result in pain, particularly in the lower back.

Woman sitting on a chair with correct posture

Poor posture. Slouching or sitting improperly for long periods strains the muscles and ligaments of the back.

Sweating woman carrying two bags

Lifting objects incorrectly. Lifting heavy objects without bending the knees and keeping the back straight increases the risk of disc and muscle injuries.

Stress and occupational anxiety for a long time

Stress. Emotional stress often causes muscle tension, a frequent trigger for cervical, occipital and lumbar pain.

Cigarette crossed out on a "no smoking" poster

Smoking. Tobacco reduces blood flow to the spinal discs, increasing the risk of degeneration and chronic pain.

Person organising boxes

Physically demanding or high-impact work. Jobs that involve lifting heavy items, repetitive movements or prolonged standing increase the likelihood of lower back pain.

Swelling and pain in the feet

Unsuitable footwear. Wearing inappropriate shoes, such as high heels or unsupportive flat shoes, can affect spinal alignment and trigger back pain.

Substantiated information by:

José Poblete Carrizo
Salvador Fuster i Obregón

Published: 23 October 2019
Updated: 10 October 2025

The donations that can be done through this webpage are exclusively for the benefit of Hospital Clínic of Barcelona through Fundació Clínic per a la Recerca Biomèdica and not for BBVA Foundation, entity that collaborates with the project of PortalClínic.

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