Back pain is a common issue that can result from various causes, ranging from minor strain to serious medical conditions. Understanding the main causes can help in prevention and treatment. Here are the primary causes of back pain:

Muscular or Ligament Strain
Overuse or Injury: Lifting heavy objects improperly, sudden movements, or repetitive strain can lead to muscle or ligament strain.
Poor Posture: Sitting or standing for extended periods in incorrect postures can strain the back muscles.
Lack of Physical Fitness: Weak muscles are more prone to strain during daily activities.
Structural Problems
Herniated or Bulging Discs: The soft cushions between vertebrae can slip or rupture, pressing on nerves and causing pain.
Degenerative Disc Disease: Age-related wear and tear on spinal discs can lead to chronic back pain.
Spinal Stenosis: Narrowing of the spinal canal puts pressure on the spinal cord and nerves.
Scoliosis or Kyphosis: Abnormal curvature of the spine can lead to back pain over time.
Injuries or Trauma
Fractures: Vertebral fractures caused by falls, accidents, or osteoporosis can result in severe pain.
Whiplash or Sports Injuries: Sudden impact or twisting movements can damage muscles, ligaments, or vertebrae.
Lifestyle Factors
Sedentary Lifestyle: Prolonged sitting and lack of exercise weaken the back muscles.
Obesity: Excess body weight adds strain to the spine and back muscles.
Smoking: Reduces blood flow to the spine, delaying healing and increasing the risk of degeneration.
Medical Conditions
Arthritis: Osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis can affect the spine, causing stiffness and pain.
Osteoporosis: Weak, brittle bones increase the risk of fractures and back pain.
Fibromyalgia: Widespread pain and muscle tenderness can affect the back.
Endometriosis: In women, endometriosis can cause referred pain in the lower back.
Infections: Spinal infections like osteomyelitis can cause severe pain and inflammation.
Cancer: Tumors in or near the spine can lead to persistent back pain.
Nerve-Related Issues
Sciatica: Compression of the sciatic nerve, often due to a herniated disc, causes shooting pain down one leg.
Pinched Nerves: Nerve compression from bones, cartilage, or muscles can lead to localized pain.
Psychological Factors
Stress and Anxiety: Mental stress can lead to muscle tension, particularly in the back and neck.
Depression: Chronic pain is often associated with psychological distress, which can worsen perception of pain.
Pregnancy
Hormonal changes, weight gain, and altered posture during pregnancy can contribute to lower back pain.
Improper Sleep
Mattress Issues: Sleeping on a mattress that doesn’t provide adequate support can lead to back pain.
Sleep Position: Certain positions, like sleeping on the stomach, can strain the back.
Age-Related Factors
Age: Back pain becomes more common with age due to wear and tear on the spine and muscles.
When to See a Doctor
Seek medical attention if back pain is severe, persists for more than a few weeks, or is accompanied by:

Numbness or tingling.
Weakness in the legs.
Unintended weight loss.
Fever.
Loss of bladder or bowel control.

Identifying the cause of back pain is essential for effective treatment and prevention.