Radiated back pain occurs when pain spreads to another part of the body due to a pinched nerve, often caused by a muscle or bone compressing around a nerve ending. Sciatic nerve pain is a common type of radiated back pain, caused by a muscle or bone in the lower back pressing on the sciatic nerve. Other causes include muscle compensation, nerve damage, and other nerves within the back. Rest and over-the-counter pain relievers may help, but seeing a doctor or physical therapist may be necessary for stronger pain relief or treatment.
Radiated back pain is any type of back pain that radiates or spreads to another part of the body. The most common cause of this pain is a pinched nerve; this occurs when a muscle, bone, or other body part compresses around a nerve ending, sending pain throughout the area of the body connected to that nerve. One of the most common types of back pain is sciatic nerve pain, in which a muscle or bone in the lower back presses on the sciatic nerve. The pain then radiates through the lower back, buttocks and legs.
The sciatic nerve is a long nerve that runs from the lower back to the lower leg. If a muscle compresses the nerve anywhere along its length, pain may be felt along the length of the nerve. Very commonly, a muscle in the leg may be compressing the nerve, especially if the person spends a significant amount of time sitting in a chair, and radiating back pain may occur. The nerve may also be pinched somewhere in the lower back or hips, sending pain down the leg. Either way, the compression point isn’t always necessarily where the pain is felt.
Other causes of back pain may have more to do with muscles compensating for failure of another muscle. If, for example, a muscle in the lower back is strained or torn, other muscles in the back, legs, or even the stomach can overcompensate to keep the spine supported. The original site of pain where the injury occurred may give off a radiating outward sensation as other muscles struggle to support the spine. This can lead to subsequent muscle tears or tears, and the sufferer should allow ample recovery time before attempting physical activity.
Other nerves within the back can cause radiating back pain. If such pain occurs, ample rest is necessary, although sometimes this is not enough to solve the problem. Over-the-counter pain relievers can help relieve some of the pain at least temporarily, but if the pain persists, it may be wise to see a doctor. He or she might prescribe a stronger pain reliever or anti-inflammatory drug to relieve the cause of the pain rather than just the symptoms. Physical therapy can also be helpful, especially if your nerve pain is caused by a damaged muscle or joint.
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