Spinal pain overview

Pain affecting different areas of the spine

Spinal pain, or back pain, is very common, with an estimated 8 out of 10 people being affected by it at some point in their lives, and of these one in five go on to develop chronic back pain, that is ongoing pain that lasts for longer than three months.

Although it can affect people at any age, it tends to first develop between the ages of 20 and 40 and becomes a bigger issue with advancing age.

The spine is divided into three zones: the cervical spine which is at the top and incorporates the neck, the thoracic spine which is the mid-section and the lumbar spine which is the lower back.

Spinal pain is most common in the lumbar section, followed by the cervical spine. The thoracic spine is the least affected by spinal pain.

Request An Appointment Contact Us

Common causes of spinal pain

Conditions and injuries that can affect the spine

The spine is an incredibly complex part of the body, comprising the spinal cord, protected within the bones of the spine (‘vertebrae’) and an array of muscles, tendons and ligaments, as well as the intervertebral discs located between the vertebrae.

Nerves exit the spinal cord via these intervertebral spaces. Pain can be associated with any one of, or a number of, these components.

Common causes of back pain include:

  • Muscle spasms
  • Spinal stenosis
  • Nerve-related conditions
  • Previous spinal surgery
  • Muscle, tendon or ligament strains
  • Inflammation affecting the joints between the vertebrae.
  • Pain affecting the muscles and surrounding connective tissue.
  • Degenerative changes affecting the spine
  • Movement of one vertebra relative to another.
  • Age-related changes affecting the intervertebral discs.

Request An Appointment Contact Us

Spinal pain risk factors

Factors that may increase the risk of back pain

Some people are more prone to spinal pain than others. Risk factors for developing spinal pain include:

Age

Particularly over 60, although risk increases from around 40.

Physical activity

Low levels of physical activity.

Weight

Being overweight or obese.

Physical stress

Repetitive heavy lifting, twisting or vibration.

Incorrect lifting technique

Poor lifting mechanics can place excessive load on the spine.

Poor posture

Prolonged poor positioning can increase stress on spinal structures.

Smoking

Smoking may reduce blood flow to tissues within the spine.

Anxiety / depression

These conditions are associated with an increased risk of spinal pain.

Common symptoms of spinal pain

How back pain can affect movement and sensation

Spinal pain is often a sharp pain in the back, however it may take a number of different forms. Spinal pain will often affect only one side of the body.

These symptoms generally make common everyday activities, like getting in and out of a chair or bed, getting dressed and undressed and walking properly very difficult.

Most cases of back pain will resolve by themselves within a few weeks. Where spinal pain continues beyond this period it is a good idea to make a doctor’s appointment.

Dull ache

A persistent aching sensation affecting the back.

Stiffness

Reduced flexibility or movement in the affected area.

Numbness or tingling

Altered sensation or pins and needles.

Referred pain

Pain may also be felt in nearby areas such as the hips or buttocks.

Muscle spasms

Back muscles may tighten or seize unexpectedly.

Fever

An elevated body temperature may develop.

Light sensitivity

Increased sensitivity or discomfort when exposed to light.

Spinal pain tests and diagnosis

How the cause of back pain is assessed

Generally speaking, imaging of the spine should not be a routine investigation, but should only be ordered if the doctor suspects there to be a fracture, infection, tumour or danger of damage to the nervous system.

The first step in diagnosing the cause of back pain is a review of symptoms and medical history. The doctor will examine the back to find areas of pain or tenderness, check range of motion and check for any nerve problems.

Blood tests may be recommended to find out if there may be other underlying conditions causing spinal pain, and if kidney stones are considered a possible cause of spinal pain, an ultrasound scan may be suggested.

In some cases, imaging tests such as X-rays, CT or MRI scans may be recommended. Of these, MRI is the most useful as it can show soft tissue and intervertebral discs clearly which X-rays and CT scans cannot, at least not as clearly.

Request An Appointment Contact Us

Ready to take the next step?

  • Comprehensive pain assessments
  • Individual treatment planning
  • Medication review and optimisation

Request an appointment Contact our team