Back pain can stem from many causes, but understanding the type of pain you’re experiencing is the first step toward real relief. Below is a clear, research-backed breakdown of the most common low back pain patterns, how to recognize them, and what you can do to feel better—faster.
This guide is perfect for working professionals, athletes, and rehab patients looking for practical, science-informed solutions.
Common Low Back Pain Types & What They Mean
| Pain Type | How It Feels | What Might Be Causing It | What Usually Helps |
| Mechanical Low Back Pain | Achy, localized pain in your lower back. Worse with bending, lifting, or sitting too long. Often better with rest or changing positions. | Muscle strain, joint stress, poor posture, or overuse. | Move gently, fix posture, improve workstation ergonomics, use heat/cold. |
| Radicular Pain (Sciatica) | Sharp, burning, or shooting pain that radiates down your leg—sometimes with numbness or tingling. | Nerve root compression from disc herniation, spinal stenosis, or piriformis syndrome. | Nerve glides, specific stretches, core stability exercises, professional diagnosis. |
| Postural Pain | Dull stiffness after sitting or standing for hours. Often linked to desk jobs or screen time. | Fatigued postural muscles, poor sitting habits, lack of movement. | Adjust chair and screen setup, take regular breaks, stretch often. |
| Inflammatory Pain | Persistent pain—especially at night or in the early morning. Not clearly tied to movement or position. | Underlying inflammatory condition (like ankylosing spondylitis). | See a doctor. May require medication or specialized care. |
Why This Matters
If you can describe your pain clearly, you can choose the right products, exercises, or care plan—and avoid wasting time or money. This table also aligns with what our AI-powered Back Pain Assessment uses to help guide you toward relief.
What next?
Want personalized guidance? Take our free pain quiz now to find your match for recovery tools, stretches, and ergonomics.
Whether you’re:
- Stuck at a desk all day with nagging discomfort,
- Recovering from a sports injury,
- Or navigating post-surgery rehab…
…this tool was built to give clear answers, proven remedies, and better days ahead.
