Which is NOT typically considered a broad pain generator of mechanical low back pain?

• A. Vertebrae
• B. Tendons
• C. Facets
• D. Discs

Answer: (B)

The main idea is that mechanical low back pain is typically driven by structures that bear the load and contain nociceptors that respond to stress. The discs (annulus fibrosus and endplates), facet joints, and the vertebral bone/periosteum are classic broad pain generators because they are heavily involved in weight transfer and movement and have well-innervated tissues that signal pain when degenerated, torn, or stressed. Tendons around the lumbar area can be involved in localized pain or overuse syndromes, but they do not usually serve as a broad, primary source of mechanical low back pain. Therefore, tendons are not typically considered a broad pain generator in this context, making them the best choice.