Why Does My Back Hurt? Common Reasons for Pain and Tips for Relief
Noticing a constant, aching pain in your back?
Have you ever been injured in a car accident?
Are years of slouching at your desk at work catching up to you?
These are all factors that can play a role in creating back pain. Back pain is a common complaint that affects people of all lifestyles and ages. According to WebMD, back pain is the leading cause of disability in people younger than 45.
Whether it’s a dull ache, sharp stabbing pain, or persistent discomfort, back pain can have a huge impact on daily activities and your quality of life.
Understanding the common causes of back pain and learning effective strategies for relief helps manage and prevent this often-debilitating condition.
Common Reasons for Back Pain
- Spinal Issues: Spine-related conditions such as herniated discs, degenerative disc disease, bulging discs, and arthritis are all examples of issues that cause back pain.
- Strains and Injuries: Accidents, muscle sprains, and fractures can all create lasting back pain. People who have previous trauma from car accidents, falls, or other injuries are all more likely to experience back pain in their lifetime.
- Sedentary Lifestyle: Not maintaining a healthy weight can create more tension on your back, which creates more pain. Not getting enough physical activity leaves the muscles that are supposed to support your spine weak, making you more susceptible to back pain.
- Poor Posture: Slouching or sitting in a hunched position for extended periods of time can strain the muscles in your back, leading to pain and stiffness.
- Pregnancy: Extra weight, stress, and hormone changes can all cause back pain in women expecting. During pregnancy, a woman’s center of gravity can shift to the front of their body, causing them to lean backward which puts extra strain on their lower back.
Tips for Relief
- Improve Your Posture: Maintain a neutral spine position while sitting, standing, and lifting heavy objects. Use ergonomic chairs and equipment at your work place to support proper posture.
- Stay Active: Engaging in consistent low-impact exercise like walking, swimming, or yoga can help strengthen back muscles and improve flexibility.
- Apply Heat or Ice: Use heat packs or warm baths/showers to relax tense muscles and improve blood flow. Ice packs can help reduce inflammation and numb pain.
- Maintain a Healthy Weight: Excess weight puts strain on the spine and can make back pain even worse. Following a balanced diet and exercising regularly can help reduce pain.
- Seek Chiropractic Care: If your back pain continues, or gets worse, consult a chiropractor to asses your condition. They can provide you with targeted treatments, and recommend exercises or lifestyle modifications that are tailored to treat your specific pain.
Find Relief for Your Back Pain in Ann Arbor at Pivotal Chiropractic!
Knowing the common causes of back pain and implementing proactive measures for relief and prevention will help you take control of your health and enjoy a more active and pain-free life.
Remember to listen to your body, practice good ergonomics, and seek chiropractic care when needed to address back pain effectively.
If you’re searching for a chiropractor who specializes in back pain in Ann Arbor, contact us for a complementary consultation today!