Many things can cause lower back pain–muscle strains or spasms, sprains of ligaments (which attach bone to bone), joint problems or a “slipped disk.”In many cases, slipped disks and other lower back pain can be relieved by following a few simple methods. Not getting enough physical activity, being sedentary, or being overweight often stresses the lower back causing pain. Because there are so many causes of lower back pain, some serious such as spinal tumors, if you experience lower back pain see your health care provider for diagnosis. If your lower back pain is sudden and severe and it is not during your provider’s office hours, go immediately to your local hospital emergency room.