Sprain or Strain...

Back strains or sprains occur if you stretch one or more ligaments beyond their normal range of motion, causing injury.

Symptoms typically include:

• Back pain that worsens with movement

• May feel a "pop" or tear at the time of injury

• Muscle cramping or spasms in the back

• Decreased range of motion in the back

Herniated Disc...

With a herniated disc, the disc is damaged and bulges or is broken open.

Symptoms typically include:

• Pain and numbness in the leg and buttocks

• Possible pain in the front of the thigh

• Ache in the lower back

• May have weakness in one or both legs

Osteoarthritis...

Osteoarthritis of the back affects the joints that connect each vertebra in the spine.

Symptoms typically include:

• Pain in the back that worsens in the morning and at night and may be relieved when lying down

• Tenderness when the joint or affected area of the spine is pressed

• Stiffness in the back and neck

• Weakness or numbness in the legs or arms