Low Back Pain Symptoms and Causes

There is a difference between low back pain symptoms and causes.  While the symptoms may be similar, the causes can be varied.  That is why it is important to consult with a medical specialist if you are experiencing low back pain symptoms.

Common low back pain symptoms are as follows:

• Pain in the low back
• Pain that radiates down the front, side or back of the leg
• Pain that worsens with activity
• Pain that increases overnight or with prolonged sitting
• Numbness or weakness in the leg
• Inability to stand on toes or flex foot downward
• Inability to raise the big toe

So what might be causing these symptom?  Common low back pain causes may be as follows:

• Abnormalities of organs in the abdomen, pelvis, or chest such as appendicitis, kidney disease or infection, or bladder infection
• Nerve root syndromes such as herniated disc, sciatica, spondylosis, or disc degeneration
• Musculoskeletal pain syndromes such as myofacial pain or fibromyalgia
• Bone infections
• Tumors
• Shingles

Obviously your back pain symptoms can be from a variety of causes.  Your chiropractor is qualified to diagnose the cause of your back pain and either treat you or refer you to other medical providers.