The Top Five Causes of Lower Back Pain in San Antonio

Lower back pain is an incredibly common problem in San Antonio and the surrounding area. It’s estimated that up to 80% of the population will experience some form of lower back pain in their lifetime. With this in mind, it’s important to know the top five causes of lower back pain in San Antonio so that you can take steps to avoid or reduce the likelihood of developing chronic lower back pain. In this blog post, we’ll discuss the top five causes of lower back pain san antonio and how to reduce your risk.

Poor posture

Back pain is often caused by poor posture, a common problem in San Antonio, especially for those with active lifestyles. Poor posture can strain the muscles and ligaments that support the spine, resulting in lower back pain. Fortunately, the Active Spine and Joint Institute in San Antonio can help those suffering from lower back pain caused by poor posture. They offer a variety of treatments, such as corrective exercises and therapies, to help restore spinal and joint health and alleviate pain. Individuals can reduce their risk of developing chronic lower back pain by improving posture.

Obesity

Active Spine and Joint Institute in San Antonio attributes obesity as one of the top five causes of lower back pain. Obesity can cause strain on the spine and the joints, resulting in pain that worsens over time. This is especially true for those with extreme weight, as the added pressure can stress the back muscles. It can also be difficult for obese individuals to keep active or exercise regularly, leading to decreased muscle strength that can weaken the back. To combat the effects of obesity on the lower back, individuals should consult a doctor and consider developing a diet and exercise program specifically tailored to their needs.

Degenerative disc disease

Lower back pain can often be attributed to degenerative disc disease, the gradual deterioration of the spinal discs. This can be caused by age-related wear and tear, traumatic injury, or long-term repetitive stress on the spine. Symptoms of degenerative disc disease include radiating pain in the lower back and legs, tingling and numbness, and stiffness in the area. Treatment for this condition can vary from physical therapy to steroid injections. In some cases, surgery may be recommended. The Active Spine and Joint Institute in San Antonio provide quality care for degenerative disc disease.

Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disorder that affects the lower back and can commonly cause lower back pain in San Antonio. This condition occurs when the cartilage that cushions the joints and protects the vertebrae wears down over time due to wear-and-tear, or aging. As the cartilage wears away, bones rub together, leading to inflammation, pain, and stiffness. 

The signs and symptoms of osteoarthritis include localized pain and tenderness in the affected area and difficulty with movement or activities that require bending, squatting, or kneeling. Other symptoms include fatigue, redness, swelling, and limited range of motion. 

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms in your lower back, it is important to consult with a doctor to determine the cause. Osteoarthritis treatment options vary from medications to physical therapy to even surgery in severe cases. At Active Spine & Joint Institute in San Antonio, we specialize in offering the best treatments for lower back pain, including treatments for osteoarthritis. We have the experience and knowledge to help you feel better quickly.

Sciatica

Sciatica is a painful condition caused by compression or irritation of the sciatic nerve, the longest and largest nerve in the body. This nerve runs from the lower back down through the hips, buttocks, and legs. Sciatica pain can be felt anywhere along the course of the sciatic nerve and can range from mild aches to sharp, shooting pains. The pain is often accompanied by tingling, numbness, and muscle weakness.

In San Antonio, sciatica can be caused by degenerative disc disease, vertebral fractures, or a herniated disc. Other potential causes of sciatica include bone spurs and pregnancy. At Active Spine and Joint Institute, our team of experts is dedicated to helping those suffering from sciatica in San Antonio find relief from their symptoms. We offer comprehensive treatments, including spinal manipulation and soft tissue therapies, to reduce inflammation and improve joint motion. We also use various modalities to address muscle spasms and non-invasive treatments to reduce pain and improve function. Our goal is to help you achieve long-term relief from sciatica.