Back pain is every adult’s enemy. It travels from the shoulder down to the bottom of the spine. There are many ways to alleviate the pain experienced by patients as it is a common condition. However, it’s helpful to understand what causes back pain to better address the situation. Aside from improper posture, what other reasons could influence back pain? Here are some ideas.

1. Underlying Health Conditions

An underlying medical condition is one of the main reasons why people experience back pain. Degenerative joint disease, osteoarthritis, diabetic nerve damage, herniated or bulging discs, spondylolisthesis, spinal stenosis, and osteoporosis are some conditions that cause back pain. If a person experiences unexplained pain that has no relation to work or sports, it is best to have a thorough medical checkup.

2. Excessive Stress

Stress can cause back pain. Many people have a habit of slouching when stressed, which can cause the back muscles to tighten and eventually suffer from pain. If you are aware of this habit and continue to slump, it can cause a more severe injury. There are ways to relieve stress aside from putting pressure on your back. Taking a deep breath, meditating and exercising is a great way to relieve stress.

3. Improper Movements

Sudden injuries, workplace injuries, and overuse injuries are among the most common causes of back pain. Just like any other body part, sudden movements can injure the back. It is important to remember that the back is the largest structure in the body, so you need to take care of it.

4. Poor Posture

Hunching forward or slouching is a widespread habit. It is also among one of the most harmful habits. Hunching forward can cause a strain on the muscles and ligaments in the back, and slouching can cause the shoulder girdle to shift forward, placing pressure on the back. It is best to avoid hunching or slouching by having a good body posture.

5. Strenuous Activities

Strenuous activities, especially ones that require lifting or pulling heavy objects, can be dangerous when done incorrectly. There are two ways to do proper lifting and squatting. One is lifting or removing things from the side, and the other is lifting or pulling from behind. You can also try lifting as close to your body as possible.

6. Obesity

Obesity is a common cause of back pain. It causes many spine problems, like herniated discs, spinal stenosis, degenerative disc disease, and spinal arthritis. Obesity is related to numerous health problems, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and cancer. It is best to start your weight loss efforts as sooner rather than later.

Why Should I Visit a Physiotherapist?

Several physiotherapy treatments are available for back pain. Stretching and strengthening exercises are among the most common treatments for back pain. Proper posture and movement can help a person prevent back pain from occurring. Hands-on treatment and other modalities can help to reduce or eliminate pain.

Conclusion

There are many possible reasons why someone experiences back pain, and it is best to consult a doctor or physiotherapist to know the actual cause. A physiotherapist visit can help a person understand what is going on with their back pain. Having a correct diagnosis will lead to proper treatment. The treatment approach of a physiotherapist can vary depending on the cause of back pain.

We take care of back pain in Whitehorse, helping patients experience less pain and improved function. For more information, speak to one of our physiotherapists  or book an appointment on our website.