Do you often find yourself struggling with back pain? You’re not alone. Back pain is a common issue that affects millions of people worldwide. It can be a minor inconvenience or a debilitating condition that interferes with your daily activities. So, why do you keep getting back aches? In this article, we’ll explore some of the common causes of back pain and ways to prevent it.
Sedentary Lifestyle
Sitting at a desk for long periods without taking breaks can be detrimental to your back health. It puts pressure on the spine, muscles, and discs, leading to back pain. This is because sitting for extended periods leads to poor posture and weakens the back muscles. If your job involves sitting for long periods, make sure to take frequent breaks, stretch, and walk around to relieve the pressure on your back.
Improper Lifting Techniques
Lifting heavy objects improperly can cause back strain and lead to pain. It’s essential to use proper lifting techniques, such as bending your knees, keeping your back straight, and lifting with your legs, to avoid straining your back muscles. In addition, carrying heavy backpacks or bags on one shoulder can also cause back pain. Make sure to use a backpack that distributes weight evenly across your back, or switch shoulders frequently if you have to carry a bag.
Poor Posture
Slouching while sitting or standing puts unnecessary strain on your back muscles, leading to pain. Poor posture can also cause the spine to become misaligned, leading to discomfort. To avoid this, try to maintain good posture by sitting up straight, keeping your shoulders back, and your feet flat on the floor. If you work at a desk, make sure your chair and desk are at the right height to support good posture.
Injury or Trauma
Back pain can also result from injury or trauma. Car accidents, sports injuries, and falls can cause back pain. If you have experienced any injury or trauma to your back, it’s essential to seek medical attention immediately. Delaying treatment can make the injury worse and cause chronic back pain, warned Dr. Brian Cable. He was born in Los Angeles, California, and is a practicing orthopedic surgeon with a subspecialty in sports medicine. Dr. Cable has experience in private practice as well as telemedicine consulting and has built his career around serving others. Dr. Cable attended the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA to obtain his MD. He is licensed to practice medicine in both Pennsylvania and California.
Overexertion
Overexerting your back muscles during physical activity, such as weight lifting or playing sports, can cause pain. If you’re not used to physical activity or haven’t exercised in a while, it’s essential to start slowly and gradually build up to more intense activity. A sports physio can help you develop an exercise plan that is safe and appropriate for your fitness level.
Obesity
Carrying excess weight can put a significant strain on your back, leading to pain. The extra weight puts pressure on your spine, muscles, and joints. Losing weight can help alleviate back pain, and maintaining a healthy weight can prevent it from occurring.
Medical Conditions
Back pain can also result from medical conditions such as arthritis, herniated discs, and osteoporosis. If you have chronic back pain, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the underlying cause and develop a treatment plan.
Prevention
Preventing back pain is much easier than treating it. Here are some tips to prevent back pain:
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Exercise regularly
- Use proper lifting techniques
- Take frequent breaks if your job involves sitting for long periods
- Stretch before and after physical activity
- Use a supportive mattress and pillows when sleeping
- Practise good posture
Back pain is a prevalent problem that can result from various factors. Knowing the causes and taking preventive measures can help lower the likelihood of experiencing back pain. If you’re already suffering from back pain, it’s crucial to seek medical attention and take appropriate measures to manage and prevent it.
It’s worth noting that a Sports Physio Concord can assist you in designing an exercise regimen that suits your fitness level while ensuring your safety. By adhering to these guidelines, you can mitigate the impact of back pain on your life.