What does it mean when your back hurts?

Back pain is a common condition that can have a variety of causes, including:

* Muscle strain or sprain. This can happen when you lift something heavy or twist your back awkwardly.

* Herniated disk. This occurs when the soft, jelly-like center of a spinal disk leaks out and puts pressure on a nerve.

* Sciatica. This is a type of nerve pain that occurs when the sciatic nerve, which runs from the lower back down the leg, is irritated or compressed.

* Degenerative disk disease. This is a condition in which the disks between the vertebrae in your spine start to wear down and lose their cushioning ability.

* Spinal stenosis. This is a condition in which the spinal canal, which houses the spinal cord, becomes narrowed.

* Osteoporosis. This is a condition in which the bones become weak and brittle.

* Kidney stones. These are small, hard deposits of minerals that can form in the kidneys and block the flow of urine.

* Cancer. Back pain can be a sign of cancer of the spine, kidneys, or other organs.

If you have back pain that is severe or does not improve with home treatment, it is important to see a doctor to rule out any underlying medical conditions.