While an episode of low back pain may begin after lifting, sleeping in an awkward position, or engaging in physical activity, these events often act as triggers rather than the underlying cause. In many cases, the factors that make the lower back vulnerable have been present for months or even years. One such factor is lumbar instability, which occurs when age-related changes, muscle weakness, or repetitive mechanical stress reduce the ability of the ligaments, intervertebral disks, facet joints, and muscles to stabilize the spine. As a result, the vertebrae may move excessively, placing greater stress on the pain-sensitive tissues in…
