Back and neck pain are among the most common reasons people visit a doctor—and for many, the underlying cause is a spine condition they’ve never heard of. Understanding what’s happening in your spine can make a world of difference in knowing what symptoms mean, when to seek help, and what treatment options exist.

Here’s a clear, patient-friendly overview of some of the most common spine conditions, what causes them, and how they’re typically treated.

1. Herniated Disc

Between each vertebra sits a soft, cushion-like disc that absorbs shock. When this disc tears or bulges, the inner material can press on nearby nerves.

Common symptoms:

• Sharp or burning pain
• Numbness or tingling
• Sciatica-type pain down the leg or arm

Treatment options: Physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, epidural steroid injections, and—rarely—surgery.

2. Degenerative Disc Disease

As we age, spinal discs naturally lose hydration and height. For some, this leads to instability, inflammation, and chronic pain.

Common symptoms:

• Persistent low back or neck pain
• Pain that worsens with sitting or bending
• Occasional flare-ups

Treatment options: Core strengthening, physical therapy, regenerative medicine (PRP or cell therapies), lifestyle changes, and targeted injections.

3. Spinal Stenosis

Spinal stenosis occurs when the spinal canal narrows, compressing the spinal cord or nerves. It’s most common in adults over 50.

Common symptoms:

• Pain or heaviness in the legs
• Difficulty standing or walking for long periods
• Relief when bending forward or sitting

Treatment options: Physical therapy, epidural injections, and minimally invasive decompression procedures.

4. Sciatica

Sciatica isn’t a diagnosis itself—it’s a symptom caused by irritation of the sciatic nerve. Herniated discs, stenosis, or piriformis syndrome may be responsible.

Common symptoms:

• Sharp, shooting leg pain
• Burning or numbness along one leg
• Worsening pain with sitting or coughing

Treatment options: Addressing the underlying cause, stretching, physical therapy, and injections.

5. Spondylolisthesis

This condition occurs when one vertebra slips forward over the one beneath it.

Common symptoms:

• Lower back pain
• Tight hamstrings
• Pain with bending backward
• Leg pain if nerves are affected

Treatment options: Core stabilization, bracing (in select cases), physical therapy, injections, and surgical stabilization if severe.

6. Facet Joint Arthritis

Facet joints help stabilize the spine. Over time, these joints can develop arthritis, leading to localized mechanical pain.

Common symptoms:

• Pain with twisting or extension
• Stiffness
• Pain that remains in the neck or back without radiating

Treatment options: Radiofrequency ablation (RFA), joint injections, and physical therapy.

7. Myofascial Pain Syndrome

Sometimes the issue isn’t the spine itself but the muscles supporting it. Trigger points in the back or neck can create chronic pain patterns.

Common symptoms:

• Muscle knots
• Aching, tightness, and stiffness
• Referred pain patterns

Treatment options: Physical therapy, trigger point injections, stretching, and posture correction.

When to See a Specialist

You should seek evaluation if you experience:

• Pain lasting longer than 4–6 weeks
• Numbness, tingling, or weakness
• Difficulty walking
• Loss of bladder or bowel control (emergency care required)

Final Thoughts

Many spine conditions share similar symptoms, but their treatments can differ significantly. A proper evaluation—including imaging and a physical exam—can pinpoint the cause and guide the right treatment plan. Early care often leads to better outcomes, less pain, and improved quality of life.