Differential Diagnosis for Lower Back Pain
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Musculoskeletal Strain: This is the most common cause of lower back pain, often resulting from overuse, heavy lifting, or sudden awkward movements. The pain is typically localized to the lower back and may radiate to the buttocks or thighs.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Herniated Disc: A condition where the soft inner gel of the disc leaks out through a tear in the outer layer, putting pressure on nearby nerves and causing pain, numbness, or weakness in the lower back and legs.
- Degenerative Disc Disease: A condition where the spinal discs lose their cushioning ability and can cause pain, stiffness, and limited mobility in the lower back.
- Spondylosis: A condition characterized by degenerative changes in the spine, including osteoarthritis, disc degeneration, and spinal stenosis, which can cause lower back pain and stiffness.
- Osteoarthritis: A condition where the cartilage in the joints of the spine breaks down, causing pain, stiffness, and limited mobility in the lower back.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Cauda Equina Syndrome: A rare but serious condition where the nerves in the spinal canal are compressed, causing severe pain, numbness, and weakness in the lower back and legs, as well as bladder and bowel dysfunction. If left untreated, it can lead to permanent nerve damage.
- Spinal Infection (e.g., Osteomyelitis, Discitis): Infections of the spine can cause severe lower back pain, fever, and other systemic symptoms. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are essential to prevent serious complications.
- Spinal Fracture: A fracture of the vertebrae can cause severe lower back pain, especially in older adults or those with osteoporosis. It requires prompt medical attention to prevent further complications.
- Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm: A condition where the aorta enlarges and can rupture, causing severe lower back pain, abdominal pain, and other systemic symptoms. It is a medical emergency that requires immediate attention.
Rare Diagnoses
- Spinal Tumor: A tumor in the spine can cause lower back pain, numbness, and weakness in the legs, as well as bladder and bowel dysfunction.
- Paget's Disease: A condition where the bones of the spine become enlarged and deformed, causing lower back pain and stiffness.
- Ankylosing Spondylitis: A chronic inflammatory disease that affects the spine and other joints, causing lower back pain, stiffness, and limited mobility.
- Spondylolisthesis: A condition where a vertebra slips out of place, causing lower back pain, numbness, and weakness in the legs.