Lower back pain in men can be caused by a variety of factors, and it is important to note that the exact cause can vary from person to person. With this in mind, Trending Impact discusses some common causes of lower back pain in men.
What Are Common Causes Of Lower Back Pain In Men?
Muscle Strain
One of the most common causes of lower back pain is muscle strain or sprain. This can occur due to lifting heavy objects improperly, sudden movements, or overuse of the back muscles.
Herniated Disc
A herniated or bulging disc in the spine can put pressure on nerves, leading to lower back pain. This can be caused by age-related degeneration or injury.
Degenerative Disc Disease
As men age, the discs in their spine can wear down, leading to a condition called degenerative disc disease. This can result in chronic lower back pain.
Sciatica
Sciatica is a common condition where the sciatic nerve, which runs from the lower back down the leg, becomes irritated or compressed. This can cause sharp, shooting pain in the lower back and leg.
Spinal Stenosis
Spinal stenosis is a narrowing of the spinal canal, which can put pressure on the spinal cord and nerves. This can cause lower back pain as well as pain and numbness in the legs.
Spondylolisthesis
This is a condition where one vertebra slips forward over the one below it. It can cause lower back pain and, in very severe cases, compression of the spinal cord or nerve roots.
Arthritis
Conditions like osteoarthritis or ankylosing spondylitis can affect the spine and cause lower back pain. This is especially the case as men get older.
Kidney Stones
Sometimes, lower back pain can be a symptom of kidney stones. This is especially the case if the stone is blocking the urinary tract.
Infections
Infections in the spine, such as osteomyelitis or spinal abscesses, can sometimes lead to lower back pain, although these are less common side effects.
Trauma
Injuries from accidents or falls can result in lower back pain. For instance, if you got a fracture or a dislocation of the spine.
Obesity
Carrying excess weight can certainly put added stress on the lower back. This can lead to pain and discomfort.
Poor Posture
Sitting or standing with poor posture over a long period of time can strain the muscles and ligaments in the lower back. Over time, this can cause pain and discomfort.
Lifestyle Factors
Smoking, lack of exercise, and sedentary lifestyle choices can also contribute to lower back pain.
Final Thoughts
Back pain is an extremely popular ailment. Indeed it was found in the National Health Interview Survey of 2018 that 28% of men aged 18 years old or over had lower back pain in the past 3 months. Among men, the percentage increased with age to 74 years old and then decreased.
It is essential to consult with a healthcare professional if you are experiencing persistent or severe lower back pain, as they can help diagnose the specific cause and recommend appropriate treatment. This may include physical therapy, medications, lifestyle changes, or, in some severe cases, surgical intervention.
