Lower Back Pain

Is My Lower Back Pain Muscle or Nerve Pain?

June 04, 20252 min read

If you're experiencing lower back pain, you might be wondering, “How can I tell if it’s muscle pain or nerve pain?” 

Understanding the difference is crucial for effective treatment, and I’m here to help you decipher the signs.

Key Indicators to Differentiate Between Muscle and Nerve Pain:

#1. Location of Pain:

  • Muscle Pain: Typically localized to the lower back. 

You might feel tenderness or stiffness in the muscles around the spine. The pain may feel achy or sore, often worsening with movement or activity.

  • Nerve Pain: Often radiates beyond the lower back into the legs, buttocks, or even the feet. 

You may experience symptoms like sharp, shooting pain, tingling, or numbness.

#2. Nature of Pain:

  • Muscle Pain: Usually described as dull, aching, or throbbing. 

It might feel tight or stiff, particularly after prolonged sitting or activity.

  • Nerve Pain: Often sharp, burning, or electric in nature. You may also experience heightened sensitivity to touch, making even light pressure feel painful.

#3. Aggravating and Relieving Factors:

  • Muscle Pain: May worsen with physical activity or certain movements, but can improve with rest, heat, or gentle stretching. 


  • Nerve Pain: Can be aggravated by certain positions or movements, especially those that put pressure on the spine or nerves. 

It might be less responsive to rest and may require more specific treatments.

#4. Accompanying Symptoms:

  • Muscle Pain: Generally isolated to the back area without neurological symptoms. 

You may experience muscle spasms or tightness.

  • Nerve Pain: Often accompanied by symptoms like weakness in the legs, loss of coordination, or altered reflexes, indicating that the nerves are affected.

When to Seek Professional Help

If you're unsure about the cause of your pain or if symptoms persist, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional. 

Early intervention can help prevent further complications and promote better recovery.

And this is EXACTLY why we created the Break Through Back Pain Exam™


This revolutionary exam is the secret to reducing PAIN, STIFFNESS, and MUSCLE WEAKNESS in your back…


…without the need for MEDICATION, INJECTIONS, or SURGERY.


The Break Through Back Pain Exam™ is a comprehensive exam that helps identify the root cause of your chronic back pain. 


By pinpointing the specific areas of damage, we can develop a targeted care plan to help you find relief and restore your quality of life.


If you're ready to take the first step towards a happier, healthier life…


Click Here To Schedule An Break Through Back Pain Exam™ Now >>>


Don't let CHRONIC BACK PAIN control your life any longer. 


Talk again soon,

Dr. Doug DeSalvo, DC.


P.S. Remember, you’re only one click away from a happier, healthier you…

Dr. Douglas DeSalvo, DC, BCN, is a highly experienced chiropractor with over three decades of practice in chiropractic care. Since founding his practice in 1987, he has treated more than 10,000 patients, drawing on his extensive expertise in neuropathy, automobile crash injuries, and brain injury traumatology. A graduate with honors from Palmer College of Chiropractic-West, Dr. DeSalvo is board-certified in neuropathy and holds advanced certifications in radiology services, MRI interpretation, and personal injury trauma. His dedication to exceptional care for spinal and neurological issues reflects his ongoing commitment to helping patients achieve optimal health and well-being.

Dr. Doug DeSalvo

Dr. Douglas DeSalvo, DC, BCN, is a highly experienced chiropractor with over three decades of practice in chiropractic care. Since founding his practice in 1987, he has treated more than 10,000 patients, drawing on his extensive expertise in neuropathy, automobile crash injuries, and brain injury traumatology. A graduate with honors from Palmer College of Chiropractic-West, Dr. DeSalvo is board-certified in neuropathy and holds advanced certifications in radiology services, MRI interpretation, and personal injury trauma. His dedication to exceptional care for spinal and neurological issues reflects his ongoing commitment to helping patients achieve optimal health and well-being.

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