Lower Left Back Pain

I am 18 years old, and in healthy shape. I don't have any health problems, except that I get from time to time really bad lower back pain. I always tend to have pain just in one particular are of my back, which is the lower left part. It feels like a sharp pain and sometimes will "lock" my back, making it hurt really badly if i move to quickly or move in a certain position. Once I had the gotten the pain, I layed down and was arching my back upwards trying to stretch my back and then i heard a loud ''pop" noise, and I no longer had to pain whatsoever. It only occurs in the lower left part, it feels like on that bone. I dont have nausea, or stomach pains or anything like that, just will get that lower left back pain about once a day. I'm wondering if its a slipped disc or something like that, but im unsure of what it is really. I could use some help in figuring out what it is or what i should do. Thanks! :)

[Zak_Han]

Pain in the facet joints gives rise to a condition known as Facet Joint Syndrome.
see doctor.

[abuckatatime]

is it was a slipped disc then you would have pain in the left leg. The pain can either radiate or just come and do. A simple Mri can tell.

[abuckatatime]

Do not get surgery if the doctor wants to unless you absolutely have to due to pain. Exercise more and stabilize your abs to support the back and you should be fine. But I had a surgery dont in feb of 2005 and now I just had my fourth one. Dont ever mess with the back it is a bad thing to do...

[rxqueen]

thanks for all the responses...they did help....i am going to see my doctor soon and see if i can get an xray or something that will determine whats going on