Did you know that around 8% of adults live with chronic back pain while millions of others suffer from sporadic episodes?
Not only is the pain frustrating, but it can also reduce the overall quality of your life. If you want to put an end to your back pain, then learning about the condition, causes, and treatments can help you nurture your health.
Are you asking yourself, “Why does my back hurt?” Keep reading to understand 5 of the most common causes of back pain.
1. Strained Muscles
One of the main causes of lower back pain is getting a strained muscle from exercising, lifting without good form, bending for long periods of time, or moving too fast. In order to take care of your back and reduce your risks, it’s always smart to stretch, lift with your leg muscles, maintain good posture, and be mindful of your movements.
The good news is that muscle strains can heal on their own with rest and easing your way into normal activities again.
2. Bulging, Herniated, or Ruptured Disc
Our spine has cushioning between each vertebra called discs. Discs can get injured the same way muscles can get strained, so those preventative measures will also protect your spine. It’s important to know that our discs get weaker as we age, so you need to practice more caution with your movements when you grow older.
3. Osteoporosis
When it comes to osteoporosis and back pain, prevention is always more productive than treatment. Women are most susceptible to this condition, which is why they need to prioritize getting enough nutrients, doing weight-bearing activities several times a week, and limiting their exposure to smoke, caffeine, and alcohol.
Chiropractic care is a popular back pain treatment that can even help people with osteoporosis. You can learn more info here to see if you should book an appointment.
4. Arthritis
Inflammation is known to attack all areas of the body, but some people feel it most in their back. Arthritis is a condition that causes chronic inflammation, so incorporating more anti-inflammatory foods into your diet is one way to get relief. If you’re experiencing back pain symptoms like swelling and stiffness, you may have arthritis.
5. Stress
Both emotional and physical stress can take a huge toll on your spine. Emotional stress raises cortisol levels, which creates widespread inflammation. Physical stressors like being overweight, having poor posture, and not getting enough sleep are other factors that can contribute to back pain.
Now You Know the Most Common Causes of Back Pain
Taking the time to learn about the top causes of back pain can help you understand what you can do to alleviate your symptoms. From lifestyle changes to stretching and medication, it’s reassuring to know that you have options.
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