degeneration is a common cause of back pain. It occurs when the intervertebral discs, which are located between the vertebrae in the spine, become damaged and worn down. As the discs degenerate, they lose their cushioning ability, which can lead to pain and stiffness. The most common causes of intervertebral disc degeneration are aging, injury, and repetitive motion. Treatment options for this condition include medications, physical therapy, injections, and surgery.