Causes of Lower Back Pain

 Lower back pain is very common. So common in fact that 80% of people will suffer from it during their lifetime. It is one of the most common reasons for visiting a medical professional. Worldwide, almost 600 million people suffer from it. If you're one of them, you know that what you want is relief and to understand what causes it. Dr. Jay McClanahan of Dr. J Chiropractic and Wellness Center in Nitro, WV offers many services for those who are suffering from lower back pain. 

Two types of lower back pain exist, acute and chronic. Acute lower back pain is of short duration and many cases will resolve themselves if you take it easy and pamper it. Chronic lower back pain is of a longer duration and is usually still around after a year. One in five people with lower back pain will become chronic. 

Aging

Aging is a primary factor in the development of lower back pain. As you age, it is likely that you may suffer from degeneration in your spine. This can take the form of osteoarthritis, which is wear and tear to your cartilage, or of osteoporosis, which is the honeycombing of the bones. You may have degeneration in your discs as they wear down and no longer offer the same amount of cushion. Spondylosis is the name given to the general wear and tear that occurs in the spine as you age. 

Injury

If you have had an accident it can result in damage to your spine. Injuries damage the muscles and tendons that support your back and this leads to lower back pain. Young people, especially those who participate in sports, can end up with pain in their lower back. Traumatic injuries can damage not only the ligaments but the discs themselves. After a vehicle accident, whiplash is something to be on the lookout for. 

Spinal irregularities

Certain congenital conditions can cause lower back pain. If the spine is not straight, this can result in pain. The condition called scoliosis is just one of the better-known conditions. 

If you are looking for relief from your lower back pain, contact Dr. McClanahan of Dr. J Chiropractic and Wellness Center in Nitro, WV. In addition to Nitro, we serve Cross Lanes, St. Albans, Teays Valley, and Charleston. Call our office at 304-776-1520 for an appointment.