What Are the Common Causes of Both Back Pain and Sciatica Pain?
Both Back Pain and Sciatica pain share several common causes, primarily related to spinal and nerve issues. One of the most common causes is a herniated or bulging disc, where the soft material inside a spinal disc pushes out through a tear in the disc's outer layer. This can compress nearby nerves, leading to both localized back pain and radiating sciatica pain. Degenerative disc disease, where the intervertebral discs lose their flexibility and cushioning ability, can also cause similar symptoms.
Spinal Stenosis, the narrowing of the spinal canal, is another frequent cause of both back and sciatica pain. This condition puts pressure on the spinal cord and nerves, leading to pain, numbness, and weakness. Additionally, conditions like spondylolisthesis, where one vertebra slips forward over another, can impinge on nerves and result in both types of pain.
Mechanical issues such as muscle strain, ligament sprains, and poor posture can also contribute to these conditions, creating a cascade of symptoms that affect both the back and the sciatic nerve.