In some cases, arthritis in the spine can lead to a narrowing of the space around the spinal cord, a condition called spinal stenosis. Osteoarthritis can affect the lower back. Disk disease is often found on spine X-rays, CT scans or MRIs done for another reason. However, a bulging or ruptured disk might not cause back pain. The soft material inside a disk can bulge or rupture and press on a nerve.
Disks act as cushions between the bones in the spine. For people in poor physical condition, constant strain on the back can cause painful muscle spasms. Repeated heavy lifting or a sudden awkward movement can strain back muscles and spinal ligaments.
Conditions commonly linked to back pain include: Low back pain caused by spinal degeneration and injury.Ĭlick here for an infographic to learn moreīack pain often develops without a cause that shows up in a test or imaging study.