Low back pain is a common condition characterized by discomfort, stiffness, or tension in the lower part of the spine. It can range from mild to severe and may be acute (lasting a few days to a few weeks) or chronic (lasting three months or longer). Low back pain can affect people of all ages and is often caused by various factors, including:

1. Muscle or Ligament Strain: Injury or overuse of muscles, ligaments, or tendons in the lower back, often due to improper lifting, sudden movements, or poor posture.

2. Herniated Disc: The soft inner core of an intervertebral disc protrudes or ruptures through the tough outer layer, irritating nearby nerves and causing pain.

3. Degenerative Disc Disease: Age-related wear and tear of the intervertebral discs, leading to loss of disc height, reduced cushioning, and increased susceptibility to disc herniation.

4. Spinal Stenosis: Narrowing of the spinal canal or nerve root canals, which can compress the spinal cord and nerves, causing pain and discomfort.

5. Skeletal Irregularities: Conditions such as scoliosis (abnormal curvature of the spine) or osteoporosis (loss of bone density) can contribute to low back pain.