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5 Common Causes of Back Pain - Brace Direct

The 5 Most Common Causes of Back Pain - With Treatment Options

Unraveling the Mysteries of Back Pain: Top 5 Culprits

If you've ever wondered, "Why does my back hurt?", you're not alone. Back pain disrupts the lives of millions of people each year, causing them to miss work and struggle with everyday activities. But what causes this common problem, and more importantly, how can you find relief? Let's explore the five most common causes of back pain and the treatment options available.

1. Muscle Strains and Ligament Sprains

Muscle strains and ligament sprains are injuries to the muscles and ligaments in your back. A strain occurs when muscle fibers are overstretched or torn, while a sprain happens when ligaments (the tissues that connect bones) are overstretched or torn. These injuries can result from activities like lifting, twisting, or sudden movements.

Leading Causes

  • • Improper lifting techniques
  • • Sudden awkward movements
  • • Overexertion during physical activities
  • • Poor posture over time

Treatment Options

2. Herniated Discs

Herniated discs occur when the soft, jelly-like center of a spinal disc pushes through a tear in the tougher outer casing. This herniation can irritate nearby nerves and cause pain, numbness, or weakness in an arm or leg. While herniated discs can happen anywhere in the spine, they are most common in the lower back.

Leading Causes

  • • Aging and disc degeneration
  • • Excessive weight
  • • Repetitive motions that strain the spine
  • • Traumatic injury to the spine

Treatment Options

3. Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is a condition that causes bones to become weak and more likely to fracture, including the bones in your spine (called vertebrae). When bones become less dense and more porous, even minor stress can lead to painful vertebral compression fractures.

Leading Causes

  • • Aging and hormonal changes
  • • Insufficient calcium and vitamin D intake
  • • Sedentary lifestyle
  • • Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption

Treatment Options

4. Spinal Osteoarthritis

Spinal osteoarthritis is a condition that involves the breakdown of cartilage in the joints and discs in your back and neck. It's a common cause of back pain, especially in older adults, due to the cartilage breaking down, leading to pain and stiffness.

Leading Causes

  • • Aging and wear-and-tear on joints
  • • Obesity and excess weight
  • • Injury or trauma to the spine
  • • Genetic predisposition

Treatment Options

5. Spinal Stenosis

Spinal stenosis is a condition where the spaces within the spine become narrowed, putting pressure on the nerves that travel through the spine. This can result in pain, numbness, or weakness.

Leading Causes

  • • Aging and degenerative changes in the spine
  • • Herniated discs or bone spurs
  • • Congenital spinal narrowing
  • • Injury or trauma to the spine

Treatment Options

While back pain can be frustrating and debilitating, understanding the underlying cause is the first step towards finding effective relief. By identifying the root issue and exploring appropriate treatment options, including back braces for support and stabilization, you can take control of your back health and regain the freedom to move without discomfort.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between an LSO and TLSO back brace? +

An LSO (Lumbar Sacral Orthosis) back brace supports the lower back and sacral area, primarily addressing issues in the lumbar spine. A TLSO (Thoraco-Lumbar Sacral Orthosis) brace provides support from the thoracic (mid-back) to the sacral region, offering a broader range of support for conditions affecting both the mid and lower back.
Back Braces: LSO vs TLSO - Targeted Support for Different Back Pains

Are back braces covered by insurance? +

All of our back braces are FSA/HSA eligible, making it simple and convenient to use those funds for your purchase. Additionally, braces with a PDAC code (e.g., L0450) may qualify for coverage under Medicare or other insurance plans. At Brace Direct, we choose not to bill insurance companies directly, allowing us to keep our prices lower and provide a more straightforward purchasing experience. Dealing with insurance providers can often be a frustrating and time-consuming process, involving claims, denials, and delays. Many customers also find that insurance copays for the same brace are significantly higher than purchasing it outright from us. By buying directly through Brace Direct, you not only avoid these hassles but also enjoy substantial savings and a seamless shopping experience.