There are few things quite so debilitating as chronic back pain. If you have ever suffered from back pain you know just how limiting it can be. Simple movements like sitting, standing, driving and walking can become incredibly difficult. There are some factors that can lead to back pain, such as obesity or arthritis, but they don't always come into play. The causes of back pain are myriad; here are some of the most common sources.

Disc Problems
For people with herniated or bulging discs, leg pain is a more common complaint than back pain, still back pain can and does occur. Usually found in the lumbar spine but also common in the cervical spine, disc issues can be painful and limiting. In severe cases, when a herniation is severe, nerves can be damaged and muscles weakened. Spondylolisthesis is another condition that causes low back pain. In this case a lumbar vertebra weakens or fractures, causing it to slip forward out of position. This places pressure upon the spinal cord. The sensation is similar to that of a disc herniation. The only way to diagnose these properly is through CT or MRI scans.

Herniated discs usually heal without intervention. It is estimated that about 40% of adults have a herniated or bulging disc at any given time, and most are unaware of the issue. It is only when a disc compresses a nerve that it becomes painful. If a disc doesn't heal on its own, cortisone injections, weight loss, NSAIDS and even surgery become options in treatment. For Spondylolisthesis the only solution is to surgically fuse the slipped vertebra in an appropriate position, thereby removing pressure upon the spinal cord.

Muscle Strain
Resulting from damage to the muscles or ligaments of the low back, this nagging injury can cause tenderness and inflammation. Usually a mild strain will heal in a few days, or at most a few weeks. Once treated by bed rest, we now understand that staying in bed causes the muscles to atrophy, which makes you more likely to reinjure your back. Pain medications, ice and/or heat and gentle stretching are the best ways to get back on your feet after a minor strain. If you have increasing levels of pain and numbness or tingling in your lower extremities, you should go see a doctor, pronto.

Osteoarthritis
If you live long enough, you are going to get some arthritis. The wear and tear of daily living takes its toll on the body, and your lower back, in particular, is prone to the development of osteoarthritis. Technically called facet joint osteoarthritis when it specifically affects the back, this condition is characterized by cartilage loss on the spinal facets, leading to bone rubbing upon bone.

Doctors tend to be conservative when treating this condition. Surgery is reserved as a final option since spinal fusion is the only way to prevent the rubbing of bones, and it is a difficult recovery. Stretching, chiropractics, analgesics and water based therapies are all helpful in managing the pain associated with osteoarthritis.

No matter the source of your back pain, there are ways to manage it. Lifestyle changes, medications and even surgery can help you get back to a normal way of life. Consult your physician if you are experiencing regular back pain. Together you can find a solution.