Oh, My Aching Back!

As much as we love our hobbies, they can often cause unwanted back pain. Whether you’re swinging golf clubs or weeding the garden, popular sports and activities can take a toll on our backs. Even day-to-day activities, like lifting heavy groceries or carrying a large load of laundry can be the cause of back pain.

Every year, millions of people suffer from back pain. Although most is acute or short term and lasts no longer than a few days or weeks, some types of back pain can be chronic, lasting longer than three months.

Back Pain Causes

• Back pain stems from an array of causes, many of which are mechanical:

• Traumatic injury such as falls, auto accidents and sports related injuries can result in intense back pain.

• Sprains and strains: A strain of the muscle or ligament in the back commonly causes acute lower back pain. Abrupt movements, twisting, or lifting heavy objects can all cause sprains and strains.

• Sciatica: When the sciatic nerve is compressed, back pain, along with pain down the leg, can be common.

• Disc degeneration: As we grow older, back pain can become more regular. Intervertebral discs may lose fluid and flexibility resulting in a decrease in the discs’ ability to protect the spine and prevent unobstructed nerve communication.

Prevention

When it comes to preventing back pain, losing those few extra pounds and working towards maintaining a healthy weight is important, as excess weight causes back strain.

Practicing good posture while sitting and walking is also important. If you are planning to move heavy objects, like furniture, be sure to lift with your legs and not your back. Invite friends or family members to help you, as lessening the work load means lessening the wear and tear on your body.

Lastly, be sure you keep up with your regular chiropractic checks, as we can help you keep your back healthy and strong, and less likely to experience pain!