Spinal pain refers to discomfort or aching that can occur anywhere along the spine,from your neck down to your lower back. It’s one of the most common reasons people see a doctor.
I always like to be clear, back pain is not always related to disk disease seen in the MRI.
Muscle strain or ligament sprain
Herniated or bulging discs
Arthritis or spinal degeneration
Poor posture or repetitive movements
Injuries or falls
Dull or sharp pain in the neck, upper back, or lower back
Pain that gets worse with certain movements or positions
Muscle tightness or spasms
Limited range of motion
Pain that radiates to your arms or legs (a sign of nerve involvement)
Pain that lasts more than a few weeks
Numbness or weakness in the arms or legs
Pain after a fall or injury
Difficulty walking, standing, or sleeping
Sciatica is pain that travels along the sciatic nerve—the largest nerve in your body, running from your lower back down the back of each leg.
Usually, sciatica is caused by a herniated disc or bone spur pressing on the nerve.
Sharp or burning pain starting in the lower back and shooting down the leg
Pain on one side of the body
Numbness, tingling, or weakness in the leg or foot
Pain that worsens when sitting, coughing, or sneezing
Physical therapy and stretching
Anti-inflammatory medications
Injections for pain relief
Surgery (in more severe or persistent cases)
Neck pain can come from muscles, joints, discs, or nerves. It’s often caused by poor posture, injuries, or wear-and-tear over time.
Muscle strain (e.g., from looking down at a phone or computer)
Herniated cervical discs
Whiplash or other injuries
Arthritis or disc degeneration
Stiffness and soreness in the neck
Pain that spreads to the shoulders or arms
Headaches
Tingling or numbness in the arms or hands (if nerves are involved)
Pain lasting more than a week
Numbness or weakness in arms
Trouble turning your head or moving freely
Pain following a car accident or fall
Practice good posture when sitting and standing
Stay active and do regular stretching
Use proper techniques when lifting heavy objects
Sleep with good spinal alignment (supportive mattress, proper pillow)
Maintain a healthy weight
Don’t ignore persistent pain—early treatment helps prevent long-term issues