Back and foot pain can be caused by spine or foot problems. Common spinal issues include degenerative conditions and herniated discs, which can cause abnormal pressure on nerves and trigger pain symptoms. Foot injuries can also alter weight bearing and change spine alignment, leading to back pain.
Back and foot pain that occurs together is most often the result of a spine or foot problem. When the bones of the spine and any of its components, such as the nerves and discs, become damaged or irritated, pain problems often start in the back and can travel to the foot. When the foot is injured, the pain can travel to the back. When a symptom moves to another area or is felt in another area, it is referred to as radiated or referred pain.
Common spinal problems that cause back and foot pain include degenerative conditions and herniated discs. Changes that cause joints in the spine to deteriorate can cause abnormal pressure on the nerves in the spine. Because the spine is where nerves branch to different parts of the body, pressure can trigger pain symptoms. These symptoms can form in the area of the nerve irritation and along the length of the nerve. This can give rise to pain problems in two seemingly different areas, such as the back and foot at the same time.
Increased nerve pressure can also occur when the disc between the bones of the spine becomes impaired. This condition, known as degenerative disc disease or spondylosis, can occur as you age. It occurs when the spring padding between the bones begins to deteriorate or wear out. When this happens, the puck is more likely to drift out of position.
Displacement of a disc can cause it to come out of its protective bone shell. If enough disc leaks, it can form lumps or herniate. The nerve that runs into the buttocks, down the back of the leg, and into the foot can be irritated by a herniated disc in the lower back. Called sciatica, this condition can lead to pain in the back and feet. Herniated discs and nerve pressure can also be caused if spaces in the spine become smaller, a condition known as spinal stenosis.
When back and foot pain are experienced together, an injury to the foot could also be the cause. Foot injuries that cause pain can alter weight bearing and the way you walk. A shift of the foot when standing or walking can change the alignment of the spine. This abnormal positioning can tighten muscles in the legs, buttocks, and back, triggering back pain symptoms in addition to foot discomfort.
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