There are several different causes of back pain, but the most common are weak or tight muscles or joints, inflammation, and stress. Other reasons may include trauma, sunburn, stroke, heat or chemical exposure burns, neuropathy, or peripheral arterial disease (PAD). Diabetes can also cause upper or lower back pain. Unhealthy joints or a pelvis that is not balanced can also lead to severe back pain.
When muscles or joints are used frequently, they can become tight. Everyday activities that a person puts their back muscles through can cause the muscles to tire, and this often causes burning back pain. Although only one area may be affected, the muscles and joints of the back are connected to other major areas of the body, such as the ribs and spine, so the burning sensation can be felt everywhere. This burning can sometimes even be felt on the skin.
Inflammation usually occurs due to an increased amount of tension felt by a person's back joints and muscles. A person who was already experiencing pain and burning in one area of the back may begin to feel more burning if swelling develops. The affected area may feel tender to the touch, swollen, and tight. In some cases, treatment for swelling may include hot or cold compresses, anti-inflammatory medications, and rest.
Although some people are unaware of the possibility, extreme psychological stress can also cause burning back pain. Many people try to find a physical reason for such symptoms, when emotional problems may be the real cause of the problem. Treatment for emotional problems can reduce or eliminate a patient's back pain. Some treatments that may be recommended for someone with this type of pain include counseling, exercise, antidepressant or anti-anxiety medication, and rest.
To get a correct diagnosis, a doctor will usually run a number of different tests. First, though, you'll most likely request a full medical history. This can help the doctor decide what tests are necessary and guide him in the direction of a diagnosis. The doctor will also perform a physical exam. Tests such as X-rays, CT scans, bone scans, MRIs, myelograms, and blood tests may also be used to determine what is causing your back pain.