Burning back pain can result from simple overactivity, but also can be caused by nerve damage somewhere in the back. Potential causes of burning back pain include an injury, arthritis in the spine, a skin condition or another medical condition such as diabetes.

Overtired Back

Simple overexertion and minor back strain can cause burning back pain, particularly centered in the lower back. Over-the-counter pain relievers often can keep the burning sensation under control until the back has healed.

Injury

A more severe injury to the spine can cause a bulging or ruptured disc, which then presses on a nerve in the spine, producing burning back pain, according to the Mayo Clinic. Ruptured discs most often heal on their own, relieving the burning pain and only one in 10 patients requires surgery, the Mayo Clinic says.

Arthritis

Osteoarthritis generally affects the lower spine and potentially can cause burning back pain if bones begin to press on spinal nerves. Treatment can involve physical therapy, over-the-counter or prescription pain relievers or surgery for the most severe cases.

Diabetes

Diabetes can progress to the point of causing nerve damage, known as diabetic neuropathy, and the disease occasionally targets the nerves in the spine, leading to burning back pain. Physicians who specialize in diabetes care can prescribe neurological medications that can lessen diabetes-related burning back pain.

Skin Conditions

All burning back pain doesn't originate in the spine. In some cases, skin conditions such as sunburn, burns from heat sources, or even painful rashes such as shingles can cause a burning sensation on the back. It's generally easy to differentiate between these conditions and a problem originating in the spine by using a mirror to look at the skin.

Source:

Mayo Clinic: Back Pain

Wrong Diagnosis: Burning Back Pain

More Information:

Cleveland Clinic: Center for Spine Health