What Causes Lower Back Pain in Females?

What Causes Lower Back Pain in Women?

Lower back pain is a common struggle for many women, often arising unexpectedly and disrupting daily life. If you’ve ever wondered what causes lower back pain in females, you’re not alone—this issue can be both frustrating and debilitating, frequently accompanied by other symptoms that complicate matters further. Understanding the various factors contributing to chronic back pain is essential for finding effective relief and regaining control over your well-being.

If you suffer from chronic lower back pain and no other treatments have helped, it may be time to seek help from an orthopedic spine expert. At the Advanced Spine Center in Plano, TX, our professionals have extensive experience treating even the most complex spinal conditions. To schedule an appointment with us, please call our office at 972-499-5457 today.

Female Chart for Back Pain

Below, we have outlined what causes lower back pain in females with a helpful visual. 

What Causes Back Pain in Females?

Lower back pain is a common issue among women and can range from mild discomfort to severe pain that interferes with daily life. While back pain can affect anyone, women often face unique risk factors that increase the likelihood of developing chronic discomfort. 

Understanding the potential causes of lower back pain can help women take proactive steps toward managing their symptoms and seeking the right treatment. Some common causes of lower back pain include sprains, strains, injuries, degenerative conditions, and more.

Common Female Lower Back Pain Causes

Some common specific causes of chronic lower back pain in women include PMS, PMDD, endometriosis, muscle strains, sciatica, herniated discs, degenerative disc disease, osteoarthritis, and spinal cord injuries. We outline each of these causes in more detail below. 

PMS, PMDD, or Endometriosis

Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) are common causes of lower back pain in females. Both conditions result from hormonal changes that occur during the menstrual cycle, leading to symptoms such as bloating, cramping, and lower back discomfort. These hormonal shifts can cause inflammation and tension in the lower back, contributing to mild to severe pain that some women experience before or during their periods.

Endometriosis, a condition where tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside the womb, is another source of significant lower back pain in women. This misplaced tissue can lead to inflammation and scarring, causing severe pain that often radiates to the lower back and pelvis. Women with endometriosis may experience chronic discomfort, especially during menstruation, due to these ongoing hormonal changes and inflammation.

Muscle Strains

Muscle strains can cause lower back pain in women, as they often result from overexertion or a sudden awkward movement. These strains can lead to muscle pain and stiffness in the lower back, making it difficult to perform everyday tasks. 

Whether caused by heavy lifting, improper posture, or an unexpected movement, strained muscles in the lower back can create persistent discomfort that may worsen without proper treatment. 

Sciatica

Sciatica occurs when the sciatic nerve, which runs from the lower back down through the legs, becomes compressed or irritated. This condition can cause sharp, shooting pain that starts in the lower back and radiates down one or both legs. 

Women with sciatica often experience persistent lower back pain, along with numbness or tingling in the affected areas. The discomfort from sciatica can range from mild to severe, depending on the extent of the nerve compression.

Herniated Discs

A herniated or bulging disc occurs when the soft inner material of a spinal disc pushes through its outer layer, often causing lower back pain in females. This pressure on nearby nerves can result in sharp pain, weakness, or numbness in the lower back, and it may even extend to other areas like the legs. While herniated discs are more common in the lower back, they can also cause neck pain if the disc issue occurs in the cervical spine.

Degenerative Disc Disease

Degenerative disc disease is a common condition in women that develops as the spinal discs wear down over time, leading to chronic lower back pain. This condition, which is closely related to degenerative joint disease, occurs when the discs lose their cushioning ability, resulting in increased friction between the vertebrae. As the discs deteriorate, women may experience persistent pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility in the lower back, especially with prolonged sitting or standing.

Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis in the spine can lead to lower back pain in women by causing damage to the facet joints, which connect the vertebrae. As the cartilage in these joints wears down, it leads to inflammation and stiffness, resulting in chronic pain that can affect mobility. Over time, the degeneration of the facet joints may cause persistent lower back discomfort, particularly during movement or after long periods of activity.

Spinal Cord Injuries

Spinal cord injuries can result in significant lower back pain in women, particularly when spinal bones or surrounding structures are damaged. These bone traumatic injuries may compress or irritate the spinal nerves, leading to sharp, radiating pain that can spread through the lower back and legs. Depending on the severity of the injury, women may experience a range of symptoms, including chronic pain, numbness, or even difficulty with movement.

Risk Factors for Lower Back Pain in Women

Several risk factors can contribute to a higher risk of lower back pain in women. These factors can affect spinal health, muscle strength, and overall blood flow, leading to chronic discomfort. Some common risk factors include the following.

• Hormonal changes during pregnancy or menopause can affect joint stability and blood flow to the lower back.
• Poor posture or prolonged sitting strains the spine and reduces proper circulation.
• Lack of exercise leads to weak core muscles that provide less support to the lower back.
• Obesity puts extra pressure on the spine and affects blood flow to the muscles and joints.
• Previous injuries, such as fractures and strains, make the lower back more susceptible to pain.

What Causes Left Lower Back Pain in Females?

Left lower back pain in females can be caused by various factors, ranging from muscular issues to underlying medical conditions. Some common causes of low back pain on the left side include:

• Muscle strains or sprains from overexertion, improper lifting, or sudden movements.
• Herniated discs that can compress nerves, leading to localized pain and discomfort on the left side.
• Kidney stones or infections, which can cause referred pain to the left lower back.
• Endometriosis, where tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus, potentially leading to left-sided pain during menstruation.
• Osteoarthritis in the lumbar spine, resulting in joint pain and stiffness on the left side.
• Sciatica that affects the left leg, leading to pain that originates in the lower back.

What Causes Right Lower Back Pain in Females? 

Right lower back pain in females can stem from various causes, including issues related to the reproductive system, musculoskeletal conditions, and other underlying health concerns. Some common causes of right lower back pain include:

• Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) can cause inflammation and pain in the right lower abdomen and back.
• Muscle strains or sprains due to physical activity, improper lifting, or sudden movements.
• Herniated discs may compress nerves on the right side, leading to localized pain.
• Kidney issues, such as infections or stones, can refer pain to the right lower back.
• Ovarian cysts can cause pain in the right lower abdomen that may radiate to the lower back.
• Sciatica, where nerve irritation on the right side can lead to pain radiating from the lower back down the leg. 

Common Types of Back Pain in Women

Back pain in women can manifest in various ways, often accompanied by specific physical symptoms that help indicate the underlying cause. Understanding these common types of back pain is essential for seeking appropriate treatment and managing discomfort effectively.

Sudden, Severe Lower Back Pain Female

Sudden, severe lower back pain in women can often present as sharp pain that may arise from various conditions, such as muscle strains, herniated discs, or even fractures. This type of low back pain can be debilitating and may result from activities that put undue stress on the spine, such as heavy lifting or abrupt movements. Women experiencing this intensity of pain should seek medical attention to determine the cause and initiate proper treatment.

Pain in Lower Back and Hips Female

Pain in the lower back and hips in women can be exacerbated by prolonged sitting, especially in those with poor posture. Conditions such as sacroiliac joint dysfunction or hip osteoarthritis may contribute to discomfort in these areas. This type of low back pain can often lead to stiffness and reduced mobility, making it challenging to perform daily activities.

Lower Back and Pelvic Pain Female

Lower back and pelvic pain in women can be indicative of underlying health issues such as pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) or endometriosis. These conditions can cause significant pelvic pain that radiates to the lower back, often worsening during menstruation or sexual activity. 

Lower Back and Thigh Pain Female

Lower back and thigh pain in women may stem from issues related to the sciatic nerve. When the sciatic nerve is compressed or irritated, it can cause low back pain that radiates down the leg, leading to discomfort in the thigh area. Conditions such as a herniated disc or spinal stenosis can contribute to this pain.

When Should You See a Doctor for Lower Back Pain?

It’s important to see a doctor for lower back pain if the discomfort persists for more than a few days, especially if it worsens over time. If the pain is accompanied by additional symptoms such as numbness, tingling, or weakness in the legs, this could indicate a more serious issue, such as a herniated disc or nerve compression. Seeking medical advice promptly can help prevent further complications and ensure appropriate treatment.

If your lower back pain is severe and prevents you from performing daily activities, or if it’s associated with unexplained weight loss, fever, or bladder or bowel dysfunction, consult a healthcare professional as soon as possible. These symptoms may signal a more serious underlying condition that requires immediate attention, such as infection or significant disc pain. This could lead to long-term complications if left untreated.

What Are the Lower Back Pain Treatments for Women?

Lower back pain treatments for women can vary depending on the underlying cause and severity of the pain. A comprehensive approach often includes a combination of therapies to effectively relieve pain and improve function. Some common treatments for lower back pain in women include the following. 

• Physical therapy to strengthen core muscles, improve flexibility, and teach proper body mechanics to prevent future injury.
• Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, to help reduce inflammation and alleviate pain.
• Injections, such as epidural steroid injections or nerve blocks, to reduce inflammation and manage pain.
• Surgical treatments for conditions like herniated discs, spinal stenosis, or degenerative disc disease, which may include discectomy, laminectomy, or spinal fusion, when conservative measures are ineffective.

If You Have Severe Pain in Your Lower Back, Contact the Advanced Spine Center in Plano

If you’re struggling with lower back pain, leg pain, or conditions like spinal stenosis, don’t let discomfort dictate your life any longer. At the Advanced Spine Center, our dedicated team is here to help you identify the underlying causes of your pain and develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs. 

Don’t wait for your symptoms to worsen—reach out to us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward reclaiming your mobility and improving your quality of life. Your journey to pain relief starts here!