Decoding Back Pain: Ten Underlying Causes You Should Know

2. Muscle Strain

Muscle strains are the most frequent cause of back pain. The most common are those that affect the lumbar muscle, caused by stretching and bending in abnormal ways that make the ligaments stretch or tear. The pain can be acute or build up over time and become debilitating. Doctors no longer recommend bed rest for most lower back pain. Lying in bed increases muscle stiffness and, over time, it can lead to muscle loss. Staying active, supplementing with medication, and alternating hot and cold treatments can help with long-term relief and management.