Approximately 90 percent of the population will suffer at least one debilitating episode of LBP in their life. Ten to twenty percent of the population experience LBP each year. Evaluation by a physician will help identify the specific pain generator and lead to an individual treatment plan. Spinal stenosis, a narrowing of the space in the central canal in the spine, is more common in older adults. Disc herniation is more common in younger and middle aged adults.
Back pain affects all groups of people.
Nearly any tissue type or structure in the back can contribute to pain. The bones, discs, ligaments, muscles, and nerve roots can all generate pain. Low back pain with radiating leg pain is often due to a pinched or irritated nerve. Most commonly, this results from either disc herniation or osteoarthritis, which is an overgrowth of bone due to worn down disc cartilage. Muscle weakness, strain, or bone instability can also cause pain.