Types of low back pain: classification and differences

Low back pain is pain located in the lower part of the back that can be acute or chronic. It affects muscles, ligaments, joints and intervertebral discs, and it can have mechanical, inflammatory or nerve-related causes.

• Acute low back pain: The pain comes on suddenly and usually lasts less than six weeks. It is generally related to physical effort, sudden movements or minor injuries.
• Subacute low back pain: It lasts between six weeks and three months, a transition between the acute and chronic phases. It needs attention so it does not become a recurring problem.
• Chronic low back pain: It lasts more than three months and can affect mobility and quality of life. It is more complex and needs specialized treatment and ongoing follow-up.

• Mechanical low back pain: Caused by effort, poor posture or degeneration of spinal structures. It is the most frequent of the types of low back pain.
• Inflammatory low back pain: Related to autoimmune diseases or inflammatory processes that affect joints and soft tissue.
• Radicular low back pain: Occurs when a nerve is compressed or irritated, causing pain that radiates to the legs.
• Nonspecific low back pain: No specific cause can be determined, although it is very common. It generally responds to postural care and moderate exercise.

• Disabling low back pain: The pain prevents basic daily activities, affecting quality of life.
• Recurrent low back pain: It comes in frequent episodes, alternating periods of pain and relief, and needs prevention strategies and constant management.

• Pain located in the lower back
• Stiffness when getting up or after sitting
• Pain radiating to the legs or buttocks (in radicular low back pain)
• Muscle spasms

Treatments vary with the type of low back pain and include:

• Physiotherapy and strengthening exercises
• Chiropractic and decompression techniques
• Applying heat or cold

Low back pain, or pain in the lower part of the back, can be caused by various medical conditions. Among the most common diseases that cause low back pain are:

• Herniated discs that compress nerves and cause radiating pain.
• Osteoarthritis that affects the joints of the spine.
• Scoliosis or postural changes that cause muscle tension.
• Osteoporosis, especially in older adults, which can lead to vertebral fractures.
• Infections or tumors in the spine (less frequent, but serious).

It is important to recognize the warning signs that low back pain may need urgent medical attention:

• Intense pain that does not improve with rest or common medication.
• Pain together with fever, unexplained weight loss or weakness in the legs.
• Changes in bladder or bowel control, or loss of sensation in the genitals or legs.
• Pain after an accident or significant trauma.

Detecting these symptoms in time lets you see a specialist and get a proper diagnosis, helping to avoid complications and to receive timely treatment.

• Keep good posture when sitting and when lifting objects
• Do strengthening and stretching exercises
• Avoid staying seated for a long time or in awkward positions

Knowing the types of low back pain and their features makes it possible to identify the cause and apply effective treatments.