Lower back pain is one of the most common conditions affecting adults. It can range from a dull ache to sharp, debilitating pain that makes it hard to move, work, or sleep. For some people it comes on suddenly after an injury. For others it develops gradually over time.
Lower back pain can show up in different ways. You might feel stiffness first thing in the morning, sharp pain when you bend or twist, or a constant ache that gets worse as the day goes on. It can stay localized to your lower back or radiate into your hips, glutes, or legs.
What Causes Lower Back Pain?
Lower back pain can come from a variety of sources:
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Muscle strains from lifting, bending, or repetitive movement
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Poor posture from sitting or standing for long periods
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Disc issues or nerve irritation, including sciatica
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Weak core or hip muscles that affect spinal stability
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Arthritis or degenerative changes in the spine
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Previous injuries that never fully resolved
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Stress and tension that shows up physically
Sometimes the cause is obvious, like after lifting something heavy or spending hours in the car. Other times it develops slowly without a clear trigger.
When Lower Back Pain Becomes Chronic
Acute lower back pain usually improves within a few weeks with rest and activity modification. But for some people, the pain doesn't go away. Chronic lower back pain lasts longer than three months and can be more complex to manage. It may involve multiple contributing factors including muscle weakness, movement dysfunction, and nervous system sensitivity. Chronic pain can also take a toll mentally and emotionally, affecting mood, energy, and quality of life.
When to Seek Help
You don't need to wait until the pain is unbearable to get help. If lower back pain is limiting your daily activities, affecting your work, or preventing you from doing things you enjoy, it's worth getting assessed.
Living With Lower Back Pain
Lower back pain is manageable. With the right assessment, treatment, and movement strategies, most people can reduce their pain, improve their function, and get back to their normal activities. At Kevlar Performance & Rehab in Burlington, we work with people dealing with all types of lower back pain to help them move better and feel better.