Differential Diagnosis for Non-Specific Low Back Pain
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Mechanical Low Back Pain: This is the most common cause of low back pain, often related to muscle strain, poor posture, or overuse. It is typically characterized by pain that improves with rest and worsens with activity.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Degenerative Disc Disease: A common condition where the spinal discs lose their cushioning ability, leading to pain and stiffness in the lower back.
- Herniated Disc: Occurs when the soft inner gel of the disc leaks out through a tear in the outer layer, potentially irritating nearby nerves and causing pain.
- Spondylosis: A condition where there is a defect in the pars interarticularis, the thin piece of bone that connects the superior and inferior articular facets of the spine.
- Musculoskeletal Strain: Overstretching or tearing of the muscles or ligaments in the lower back, often due to heavy lifting, sudden movement, or poor posture.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Cauda Equina Syndrome: A serious condition where the nerves in the spinal canal are compressed, leading to symptoms such as numbness, weakness, and loss of bladder and bowel control. Prompt recognition and treatment are crucial to prevent permanent damage.
- Spinal Infection (e.g., Osteomyelitis, Discitis): Infections of the spine can cause severe back pain and may lead to serious complications if not treated promptly.
- Spinal Fracture: A break in one of the vertebrae, which can be caused by osteoporosis, trauma, or cancer.
- Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm: A potentially life-threatening condition where the aorta enlarges and may rupture, causing severe back pain.
Rare Diagnoses
- Spinal Tumors: Both benign and malignant tumors can cause low back pain, although they are relatively rare.
- Spondylolisthesis: A condition where one of the vertebrae slips out of place, potentially causing nerve compression and pain.
- Ankylosing Spondylitis: A type of arthritis that can cause inflammation and stiffness in the spine, leading to chronic back pain.
- Osteoporotic Compression Fracture: A fracture of a vertebra caused by osteoporosis, which can lead to sudden and severe back pain.