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Guide To Lower Back Pain

By Carol & Richard Eustice, About.com

Updated: May 27, 2006

About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by Kate Grossman, MD

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Part 4 of 10 - What Conditions Are Associated With Lower Back Pain?

Associated Conditions

Conditions that may cause low back pain and require treatment by a doctor or health specialist include:

  • Bulging discs (also called protruding, herniated, or ruptured discs) As discs degenerate and weaken, cartilage can bulge or be pushed into the space containing the spinal cord or a nerve root, causing pain.

  • Cauda equina syndrome occurs when disc material is pushed into the spinal canal and compresses the bundle of lumbar and sacral nerve roots. Permanent neurological damage may result if this syndrome is left untreated.

  • Sciatica a condition in which a herniated or ruptured disc presses on the sciatic nerve.

  • Spinal degeneration from disc wear and tear can lead to a narrowing of the spinal canal. Those with spinal degeneration may experience back stiffness upon awakening or may feel pain after walking or standing for a long time.

  • Spinal stenosis related to congenital narrowing of the bony canal predisposes some people to pain related to disc disease.

  • Skeletal irregularities such as scoliosis, kyphosis, lordosis, back extension and flexion can produce strain on the vertebrae and supporting muscles, tendons, ligaments, and tissues.

    • Other Conditions

    Other conditions associated with low back pain include:

  • osteoporosis (a progressive bone disease)
  • fibromyalgia (a chronic disorder with widespread musculoskeletal pain)
  • ankylosing spondylitis (a chronic spine arthritis)
  • osteomyelitis (a bone infection)
  • sacroiliitis (inflamed sacroiliac joints)

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