A condition characterized by persistent and long-lasting discomfort or pain in the lower region of the back, typically lasting 12 weeks or longer. This is a common health issue that can significantly affect a person’s quality of life.

Causes: Chronic lower back pain can be caused by various factors, including muscle strains, ligament sprains, herniated discs, spinal stenosis, osteoarthritis, or degenerative disc disease. In some cases, the cause may be difficult to pinpoint.

Diagnosis: Diagnosing the underlying cause of chronic lower back pain can be challenging. Healthcare providers often use a combination of physical examinations, medical history, and imaging studies (such as X-rays, MRI, or CT scans) to determine the cause.

Despite its name, degenerative disc disease (DDD) is not truly a “disease” but rather a natural part of the aging process of the spine. It primarily affects the intervertebral discs, which are the soft, cushion-like structures that sit between the vertebrae (the bones of the spine). These discs provide flexibility, support, and allow for shock absorption in the spinal column.

Causes: DDD is primarily caused by the natural aging process. As people age, the intervertebral discs lose water content and elasticity, which makes them thinner and less effective at cushioning the spine. This can lead to a range of symptoms and problems.

Diagnosis: DDD is typically diagnosed through a combination of patient history, physical examination, and diagnostic imaging tests, such as X-rays, MRI (magnetic resonance imaging), or CT (computed tomography) scans.

A herniated disc, also known as a slipped or ruptured disc, is a common spinal condition that occurs when the inner core of an intervertebral disc protrudes through the outer layer. Intervertebral discs are the soft, cushion-like structures that lie between the vertebrae (the bones of the spine).

Causes: Herniated discs can result from a combination of factors, including age-related degeneration, trauma, or repetitive stress.

Diagnosis: Herniated discs are diagnosed through a combination of patient history, physical examination, and diagnostic imaging, such as MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) or CT (computed tomography) scans. These imaging tests can provide detailed information about the location and extent of the herniation.

Sciatica is a term used to describe a set of symptoms rather than a specific medical condition. It refers to pain that radiates along the path of the sciatic nerve, which is the longest nerve in the human body. The sciatic nerve runs from the lower back, through the hips and buttocks, and down each leg. Sciatica typically occurs when there is compression or irritation of the sciatic nerve, leading to pain, tingling, or numbness that can extend from the lower back down one or both legs.

Causes: Sciatica is most commonly caused by a herniated disc, which is when the inner core of an intervertebral disc protrudes and compresses the nerve. Other common causes include spinal stenosis, piriformis syndrome, or spondylolisthesis.

Diagnosis: Sciatica is typically diagnosed through a combination of patient history, physical examination, and diagnostic imaging, such as MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) or CT (computed tomography) scans. These tests help identify the underlying cause of the nerve compression.