Tumors
Both benign and malignant tumors can cause low back pain. In a majority of cases, these tumors usually originate in the spinal cord or bone of the pelvis and spine (primary tumors). Uncommonly, those originate elsewhere and spread to the spinal cord can also produce similar symptoms, including localized pain, loss of nerve and muscle function, and swelling.
Tumors directly affecting the spinal cord or that migrate from other body tissues are detected using imaging tests, such as X-rays of the lumbar spine, CAT scans, nuclear bone scanning, and MRI.