By Duration

Acute low back pain: Lasts less than 6 weeks, often caused by muscle strain, ligament sprain, or minor injury. Subacute low back pain: Lasts 6–12 weeks. Chronic low back pain: Persists for more than 12 weeks, sometimes even after the original injury has healed. 2. By Cause Mechanical Pain (Most Common) Pain arising from muscles, ligaments, joints, or spinal structures. Examples: Muscle strain Ligament sprain Degenerative disc disease Facet joint arthritis Spinal stenosis Radicular Pain (Nerve-Related) Occurs when a spinal nerve is compressed or irritated. Examples: Sciatica Herniated (slipped) disc pressing on a nerve Symptoms: Sharp, shooting pain Tingling or numbness Pain radiating into the buttock, leg, or foot Referred Pain Pain felt in the lower back but originating from another area, such as: Kidneys Pelvic organs Abdominal organs Inflammatory Pain Caused by inflammatory conditions affecting the spine. Examples: Ankylosing Spondylitis Other inflammatory arthritic diseases Features: Worse in the morning Improves with movement 3. By Location Central low back pain: Pain in the middle of the lower back. One-sided low back pain: Pain mainly on the left or right side. Pain radiating to the buttocks or legs: Often suggests nerve involvement. Common Symptoms Associated with Lower Back Pain Dull ache Sharp or stabbing pain Muscle spasms Stiffness Numbness or tingling in the legs Weakness in the legs