Why Does My Back Hurt? Common Causes, Diagnosis, and What to Do

Date of publication: 30.01.2026

Content:

  1. How Common Is Back Pain
  2. Common Causes of Back Pain
  3. When Back Pain May Be Serious
  4. How Back Pain Is Diagnosed
  5. What to Do If Your Back Hurts
  6. Can Back Pain Be Prevented
  7. Frequently Asked Questions
  8. Conclusion
Why does my back hurt? This is one of the most common health questions people ask, regardless of age or lifestyle. Back pain affects millions worldwide and can range from mild discomfort to severe, disabling pain. Understanding the possible causes of back pain is the first step toward effective treatment and long-term relief.

This article explains the most common reasons your back may hurt, how back pain is diagnosed, and what you can do to manage and prevent it.
How Common Is Back Pain
Back pain is extremely common:
  • Most people experience back pain at least once in their lifetime
  • It is a leading cause of missed workdays
  • Both young and older adults are affected
In many cases, back pain is not dangerous, but persistent or worsening symptoms should never be ignored.
Common Causes of Back Pain
  • Muscle Strain and Overuse

    One of the most frequent answers to “why does my back hurt” is muscle strain.
    Typical causes include:
    • Lifting heavy objects incorrectly
    • Sudden movements or twisting
    • Overuse during sports or physical work
    • Poor posture
    Muscle-related back pain often improves within days to weeks.
  • Poor Posture and Prolonged Sitting

    Modern lifestyles involve long hours of sitting, which places stress on the spine.
    Contributing factors:
    • Slouching
    • Forward head posture
    • Inadequate workstation ergonomics
    Over time, poor posture can lead to chronic muscle tension and spinal discomfort.
  • Disc Problems

    Spinal discs act as shock absorbers. When they become damaged, back pain may occur.
    Common disc-related conditions:
    • Bulging disc
    • Herniated (slipped) disc
    • Degenerative disc disease
    Disc problems often cause pain that radiates into the arms or legs.
  • Nerve Compression

    When spinal nerves are compressed or irritated, pain can become sharp, burning, or radiating.
    Examples include:
    • Sciatica
    • Cervical or lumbar nerve root compression
    • Spinal stenosis
    Nerve-related back pain may be accompanied by numbness, tingling, or weakness.
  • Degenerative Spine Conditions

    Age-related changes can affect the spine over time.
    Common degenerative causes:
    • Osteoarthritis of the spine
    • Facet joint degeneration
    • Disc dehydration and thinning
    Degenerative back pain often develops gradually and may worsen with activity.
  • Injuries and Trauma

    Back pain may result from:
    • Falls
    • Car accidents
    • Sports injuries
    • Sudden impacts
    Injuries should be evaluated promptly, especially if pain is severe or persistent.
  • Lifestyle Factors

    Certain lifestyle habits increase the risk of back pain:
    • Lack of physical activity
    • Obesity
    • Smoking
    • Chronic stress
    • Poor sleep
    These factors can slow healing and increase pain sensitivity.
When Back Pain May Be Serious
Seek medical attention if back pain is accompanied by:
  • Progressive weakness in the arms or legs
  • Loss of bladder or bowel control
  • Neurological deficits progress
  • Numbness in the groin area
  • Fever or unexplained weight loss
  • Severe pain after trauma
These symptoms may indicate a serious condition requiring urgent care.
How Back Pain Is Diagnosed
  • Medical History and Physical Examination

    Diagnosis begins with:
    • Reviewing symptom duration and intensity
    • Identifying triggering activities
    Assessing posture, movement, and strength
  • Imaging Studies

    Imaging is used when necessary:
    • MRI to assess discs, nerves, and soft tissues
    • X-rays to evaluate alignment and bone changes
    • CT scans in selected cases
    Imaging results must always be interpreted alongside symptoms.
What to Do If Your Back Hurts
  • Stay Active

    Gentle movement is usually better than bed rest. Walking and light activity help maintain circulation and flexibility.
  • Use Targeted Treatment

    Depending on the cause, treatment may include:
    • Physical therapy
    • Guided exercise programs
    • Posture correction
    Pain management strategies
  • Address the Root Cause

    Long-term relief depends on treating the underlying problem—not just masking pain.
  • Lifestyle Adjustments

    Helpful changes include:
    • Improving ergonomics
    • Strengthening core muscles
    • Managing stress
    Maintaining a healthy weight
Can Back Pain Be Prevented
While not all back pain can be prevented, risk can be reduced by:
  • Staying physically active
  • Using proper lifting techniques
  • Maintaining good posture
  • Avoiding prolonged sitting
  • Addressing pain early
Prevention plays a key role in long-term spine health.
Frequently Asked Questions
  • Why does my back hurt when I wake up?
    Morning back pain may be related to sleeping position, mattress quality, or stiffness from inactivity.
  • Why does my back hurt when sitting?
    Prolonged sitting increases spinal pressure and muscle tension, especially with poor posture.
  • Should I rest if my back hurts?
    Short rest may help, but prolonged inactivity often delays recovery.
  • Can stress cause back pain?
    Yes. Stress increases muscle tension and pain sensitivity.
Conclusion
If you are asking “why does my back hurt?”, the answer may involve muscles, discs, nerves, posture, or lifestyle factors. Most back pain is not dangerous, but persistent or worsening symptoms should be properly evaluated. With early diagnosis, appropriate treatment, and active self-care, most people can significantly reduce pain and restore normal movement.

A personalized, evidence-based approach is the key to long-term back health.