Differential Diagnosis for Back Pain
- Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Musculoskeletal strain: This is the most common cause of back pain, often resulting from overuse, poor posture, or acute injury. It is likely due to the high prevalence of musculoskeletal issues in the general population.
- Other Likely Diagnoses
- Herniated disc: A common condition where the soft inner gel of the disc leaks out, putting pressure on nerves and causing pain.
- Degenerative disc disease: A condition where the spinal discs lose their cushioning ability, leading to pain and stiffness.
- Spondylosis: A condition characterized by the degeneration of the spinal joints, often causing pain and stiffness.
- Osteoarthritis: A condition where the cartilage in the spinal joints breaks down, leading to pain and stiffness.
- Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Cauda equina syndrome: A rare but serious condition where the nerves in the lower spine are compressed, leading to severe pain, numbness, and potentially permanent damage if not promptly treated.
- Spinal infection (e.g., osteomyelitis, discitis): Infections of the spine can cause severe back pain and potentially lead to serious complications if not treated promptly.
- Spinal fracture: A fracture of the spine can cause severe back pain and potentially lead to serious complications, such as spinal cord injury.
- Cancer (e.g., metastatic disease, multiple myeloma): Although rare, cancer can cause back pain and is a critical diagnosis not to miss.
- Rare Diagnoses
- Ankylosing spondylitis: A chronic inflammatory disease that can cause the vertebrae to fuse together, leading to pain and stiffness.
- Spinal stenosis: A condition where the spinal canal narrows, putting pressure on the nerves and causing pain.
- Paget's disease: A condition where the bones in the spine become enlarged and deformed, leading to pain and stiffness.
- Osteoporotic compression fracture: A fracture of the spine caused by osteoporosis, which can lead to severe back pain and potentially serious complications.