What is a common cause of lower back pain?

A herniated disc is a common cause of lower back pain due to the anatomy and function of the spinal discs. In a herniated disc, the soft inner material of the disc protrudes through the tougher exterior layer. This protrusion can press on nearby spinal nerves, leading to pain, numbness, or weakness that may radiate down the legs, a condition often referred to as sciatica. The prevalence of herniated discs in both sedentary and active individuals illustrates the impact of age, activity level, and strain on the spine.

Understanding the physiology of the spine and the role of discs in cushioning vertebrae helps explain why a herniated disc is so likely to result in discomfort or pain. In addition, risk factors like heavy lifting, poor posture, or degenerative changes that occur naturally with aging increase the likelihood of disc herniation, underscoring its commonality as a source of lower back pain.

The other options, while they can cause pain, are less common in the general population. High calcium levels might lead to other issues, but not typically lower back pain specifically. Excessive flexibility is usually more often associated with joint instability rather than pain. A torn ligament can cause pain but is