A tender spot when pressing on the spine is typically due to an injury. However, other conditions, such as disc degeneration, herniated discs, inflammatory arthritis, or infections, may cause localized spine pain.

Back pain can affect anyone and is one of the most common reasons people seek emergency care. It has a range of potential causes, but those involving a mechanical nature are the most common and are responsible for 90%Trusted Source of back pain.

Mechanical causes of back pain are when a structural problem develops. This issue may affect the spine, nerves, tendons, ligaments, or muscles in the back. Mechanical causes includeTrusted Source:

Other causes of back pain may be inflammatory, such as arthritis, or due to something else. Back pain may result from tumors, pregnancy, fibromyalgia, infections, and more.

Due to the many potential causes of back pain, it is important for people to speak with a doctor for a proper diagnosis. Many of the above causes may lead to additional symptoms that can help a doctor narrow down the underlying issue.

If back pain only occurs when pressing on the area, people may be able to manage their symptoms by avoiding pressure on the area, over-the-counter pain relief, and home remedies, such as heat pads or cold compresses.

Gentle exercise can also help relieve back pain. Staying in bed for long periods may worsen some types of back pain.

However, if the pain worsens despite home treatments or other symptoms are present, people may need to contact a doctor.

People should seek urgent help if any of the following apply:

  • back pain started after a serious accident, such as a car crash
  • numbness, pain, or weakness in the legs
  • numbness around the groin
  • difficulty urinating or a loss of bladder and bowel control
  • chest pain

People may be able to prevent some types of back pain. Lifestyle habits that may helpTrusted Source reduce the risk of back pain include:

A healthcare professional is the best person to diagnose the cause of someone’s back pain.