Why Does My Back Hurt? 12 Common Causes Explained

By Dr. Dan Kehres, D.C., Chiropractor and Owner of Kehres Health & Chiropractic

"Why does my back hurt?" Too many times we blame it on age or sleeping weird. But there are a variety of causes.

Back pain is one of the most common reasons people visit our office. Sometimes the cause is obvious -- you lifted something heavy but other times, the pain seems to come out of nowhere. The key is figuring out what's actually causing your pain so you can treat it appropriately.

Here are 12 of the most common reasons people experience back pain.

1. Muscle Strain

This is probably the most common cause of back pain.

You might strain a muscle from:

• Lifting something heavy

• Yard work

• Playing sports

• Sitting too long before suddenly becoming active

Symptoms

• Aching or tight muscles

• Pain with movement

• Tenderness when touched

Many muscle strains improve within a few weeks with the right combination of movement, stretching, and care.

2. Joint Dysfunction

Your spine is made up of many small joints that help you move comfortably. When one or more of these joints doesn't move properly, it can create pain, stiffness, and muscle tension.

People often notice:

• Pain when getting out of bed

• Stiffness after sitting

• Difficulty turning or bending
  

Restoring normal joint motion is one of the primary goals of chiropractic care.

3. Poor Posture

Hours spent at a computer, looking down at a phone, or sitting in a car can place extra stress on your spine. Over time this may contribute to:

• Neck pain

• Mid-back pain

• Low back discomfort

• Headaches
  

Small changes in posture and workstation setup can make a big difference.

4. Herniated or Bulging Disc

Between each vertebra is a disc that acts like a cushion. Sometimes these discs become irritated or bulge outward.

This doesn't always cause pain, but when it presses on a nearby nerve, you may experience:

• Pain down the leg

• Numbness

• Tingling

• Weakness

Not every disc problem requires surgery, and many improve with conservative care.

5. Sciatica

Sciatica isn't actually a diagnosis, it's a symptom. The sciatic nerve can become irritated from several different causes, resulting in:

• Pain traveling down one leg

• Burning sensations

• Tingling

• Numbness
  

Finding the source of the irritation is more important than simply treating the symptoms.

6. Arthritis

As we age, the joints of the spine naturally experience wear and tear. Some people develop arthritis that causes:

• Morning stiffness

• Reduced flexibility

• Aching after activity
  

Movement often helps more than complete rest.

7. Weak Core Muscles

Your core muscles help stabilize your spine. When these muscles become weak, your back often has to work harder. Especially if you have been pregnant, check for diastasis recti.

Strengthening your core can reduce stress on your spine and improve long-term function.

8. Stress

Many people don't realize how much stress affects the body. When we're stressed, muscles tend to tighten—especially around the neck, shoulders, and lower back.

Stress may not be the only cause of your pain, but it can certainly make it worse.

9. Poor Sleep

Your body heals while you sleep. A mattress that's too old, poor sleeping positions, or simply not getting enough sleep can all contribute to back pain. Please never sleep on your stomach.

10. Pregnancy

As pregnancy progresses, your center of gravity changes and ligaments naturally loosen.

This often leads to:

• Low back pain

• Pelvic discomfort

• Hip pain
  

Many pregnant women find chiropractic care helpful for improving comfort during pregnancy. My wife routinely got adjusted during pregnancy and it helped her a lot.

11. Repetitive Movements

Whether you're working in an office, on a construction site, or caring for young children, repeating the same movements (dentists!) every day can overload certain muscles and joints.

Even something as simple as repeatedly twisting or lifting can contribute to ongoing discomfort.

12. Less Common Medical Conditions

Although uncommon, back pain can occasionally be caused by more serious conditions.

You should seek immediate medical evaluation if your back pain is accompanied by:

• Loss of bowel or bladder control

• Significant leg weakness

• Fever with back pain

• Unexplained weight loss

• Severe pain after a major fall or accident

• Pain that doesn't improve or continues to worsen

When Should You See a Chiropractor?

If your back pain has lasted more than a few days, keeps coming back, or is limiting your daily activities, it's worth having it evaluated. At our 6 offices, we have in-office x-rays and will verify insurance benefits for you. We also have massage therapy to compliment your care.

One of the most important parts of my job isn't just helping people feel better, it's determining why they're hurting in the first place.

If I believe you need imaging, physical therapy, or another healthcare provider, I'll tell you. My goal is always to help you find the most appropriate treatment for your specific situation. At Kehres Health & Chiropractic, we take the time to understand what's causing your pain and create a personalized treatment plan, not a one-size-fits-all approach.

Schedule an appointment at one of our mid-Michigan chiropractic locations and let's work together to help you move and feel your best.

The information provided on this website is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice or a substitute for an evaluation by a qualified healthcare professional. Every individual and every condition is unique. Seek immediate medical attention if needed. Always consult with your healthcare provider regarding your specific health concerns before beginning any new treatment or exercise program. Written and reviewed by Dr. Kehres August 2026.