There are various types of back pain, and they can be classified based on different factors such as the underlying cause, location of pain, and duration. Here are some common types of back pain:
- Non-Specific Mechanical Back Pain: This is the most common type of back pain and typically arises from muscle strains, ligament sprains, or mechanical issues in the spine. It is often characterized by localized pain, stiffness, and limited range of motion.
- Herniated Disc: Also known as a slipped or ruptured disc, this condition occurs when the soft inner portion of a spinal disc protrudes through the outer layer, causing pressure on surrounding nerves. It can result in sharp or radiating pain, numbness, and tingling.
- Sciatica: Sciatica refers to pain that radiates along the path of the sciatic nerve, which extends from the lower back down the back of each leg. It is often caused by compression or irritation of the nerve, and it can cause sharp, shooting pain, tingling, or numbness in the buttocks, leg, or foot.
- Spondylosis: Spondylosis is a degenerative condition that involves wear and tear of the spinal discs and joints. It can lead to chronic back pain, stiffness, and loss of flexibility.
- Spondylolisthesis: This condition occurs when one vertebra slips forward over the one below it. It can cause lower back pain, muscle tightness, and nerve compression symptoms.
- Spinal Stenosis: Spinal stenosis refers to the narrowing of the spinal canal, resulting in pressure on the spinal cord or nerves. It commonly leads to pain, numbness, and weakness in the back and legs, which may worsen with walking or prolonged standing.
- Osteoarthritis: Osteoarthritis can affect the joints in the spine and cause chronic pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility.
Although back pain is often seen as a result of imbalances or blockages in the body's Qi (energy) and Blood circulation, as trained as orthopedist in the university, I treat back pain more related with anatomical perspective 。