Lower back pain is one of the most common reasons people seek healthcare, and it can have many different causes. In fact, research shows that up to 80% of people will experience lower back pain at some stage in their lives (Balagué et al., 2012).
At our clinic, we regularly see patients who are struggling with this issue. Whether your pain came on suddenly or has been building for years, it’s important to understand what might be going on and when to seek care.
Common Causes of Lower Back Pain
There isn’t just one reason people develop back pain - it can come from joints, discs, nerves, or even referral from other parts of the body. Some of the most common causes include:
Disc injuries – including bulges, herniations, or inflammation of the spinal discs.
Facet joint irritation – small joints in your spine that can become inflamed or restricted.
Ligament sprains and muscle strains – often from lifting, twisting, or overuse.
Nerve irritation or “pinching” – which may cause radiating pain, tingling, or weakness.
Referred pain – discomfort in the lower back that originates from the hips, pelvis, abdominal organs, or other structures.
Because back pain can be caused by so many factors, it’s not always straightforward to work out the true source on your own.
Should I See a Chiropractor?
You might wonder: “If I don’t know what’s causing my lower back pain, how do I know if a chiropractor can help?”
Chiropractors are trained to assess, diagnose, and manage a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions, including those affecting the lower back. Your first visit involves a thorough history, physical examination, and, if needed, referral for imaging or further testing.
If your condition is suitable for chiropractic care, we’ll explain your options and outline a plan to help you. If your pain is better managed alongside or by another healthcare professional, such as a physiotherapist, massage therapist, or medical doctor - we’ll make sure you’re referred to the right place.
You can feel confident that our priority is to identify the cause of your pain and guide you toward the most appropriate care for your situation.
Contact UsReferences:
Balagué F, Mannion AF, Pellisé F, Cedraschi C. (2012). Non-specific low back pain. The Lancet, 379(9814), 482–491.
Maher C, Underwood M, Buchbinder R. (2017). Non-specific low back pain. The Lancet, 389(10070), 736–747.
Foster NE, et al. (2018). Prevention and treatment of low back pain: evidence, challenges, and promising directions. The Lancet, 391(10137), 2368–2383.
