What Are the Most Common Causes of Back Pain?

Back pain affects nearly 80% of adults at some point, making it one of the leading causes of disability worldwide. Understanding the root cause is key to finding effective, lasting relief

So, what are the most common causes of back pain? Here are the most frequent contributors—and how chiropractic care can help. 

Muscle Strain, Ligament Sprain & Facet Joint Injuries 

Prevalence: Up to 70% of acute low back pain cases. 

Overuse, poor posture, or sudden movements can strain muscles and ligaments or irritate facet joints—small stabilizing joints in the spine—causing sharp, localized pain. Common triggers include improper lifting, twisting, or prolonged sitting. 

Chiropractic Care: Spinal adjustments restore alignment and relieve pressure on affected joints. Our Guildford Chiropractors also use soft tissue therapy, rehab exercises, and ergonomic advice to support recovery. 

Low Back Pain

Herniated or Bulging Discs 

Prevalence: 5–20 per 1,000 adults annually. 

When spinal discs bulge or rupture, they can press on nerves, causing back pain, numbness, or sciatica. 

Chiropractic Care: Gentle decompression and adjustments help relieve pressure, while rehab and posture guidance promote long-term spinal health. 

Poor Posture & Sedentary Lifestyle 

Prevalence: Affects 54% of office workers. 

Sitting too long and slouching can lead to misalignment and muscular imbalance. 

Chiropractic Care: Postural assessments, adjustments, and tailored exercises improve alignment and help you stay active without pain. 

Degenerative Disc Disease & Arthritis 

Prevalence: Present in 40% of adults over 40, rising with age. 

Aging can lead to disc thinning and joint wear, causing stiffness and chronic discomfort.

Chiropractic Care: While we can’t reverse aging, we can reduce pain, maintain mobility, and slow progression through regular care and lifestyle support. 

Injuries & Accidents 

Prevalence: Account for 20% of workplace injuries and up to 50% of whiplash-related back pain.  Falls, sports injuries, and car accidents often lead to spinal misalignment or soft tissue damage. 

Chiropractic Care: We offer personalised recovery plans with adjustments, rehabilitation, and muscle therapy to restore function and relieve pain. 

Stress & Tension 

Prevalence: Linked to 30% of chronic back pain, especially in younger adults. 

Stress often causes muscle tension in the neck and back, leading to ongoing pain. 

Chiropractic Care: Chiropractic adjustments ease physical tension and help rebalance the nervous system. We also suggest relaxation techniques for whole-body wellness. 

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