Acute Pain
Acute pain usually results from inflammation caused by irritation or injury, but quit often it has no known cause. This type of pain could have its origin located in the spinal joints, discs, vertebras, or soft tissues. Acute pain is primarily experienced in the lower back and it may also be called lumbago, idiopathic low back pain, lumbosacral strain or sprain, or sciatica.

Acute pain is usually constant and ranging in severity. It is commonly very sharp or a dull ache and can be more severe in one area, such as the center or both sides the lower back. The pain may also spread to the buttocks, thighs, knees, or even feet.

Acute pain that aggravated by forward movement of the spine and worsened by coughing is typical of a herniated disc or stress fracture.