You might often hear your friends complaining about their back pain. This issue has been reported by many people, and the chances are that you suffer from such pain too. Low back pain can be caused by a range of factors, from physical causes such as muscle strain or postural issues to psychological issues such as stress and anxiety. Identifying the underlying cause is a good move if you want to prevent or treat chronic low back pain effectively. That’s why today, we’re going to share with you the most common reasons behind chronic low back pain and how to fix them.
Poor Posture
Slouching, hunching, and slumping should be something you don’t do, especially if you spend a lot of time sitting. Sitting or standing in a bad position for an extended period puts stress on your spine and muscles in the area. To fix this issue, practice good posture by sitting upright with your feet flat on the floor and your shoulders straight and relaxed. According to a recent study, having an ergonomic chair is also beneficial. An ergonomic chair with good lumbar support can reduce the stress on your spine and make you more comfortable.
Inadequate Exercise
Exercising regularly helps promote flexibility, strength, and endurance in your body, which are critical factors in preventing chronic low back pain. However, if you limit yourself to only a few exercises or don’t exercise at all, it can lead to muscle weakness and tightness that can cause pain in your lower back. To deal with this issue, it’d be such a huge advantage for you if you add some regular exercises (such as walking, swimming, and low-impact aerobics) into your routine. Doing stretching exercises can also help loosen up the muscles around your spine, which can alleviate the tension that is causing the pain.
Muscle Strain or Injury
If you’ve recently been lifting something heavy or have had a minor accident that caused some trauma to your lower back, this can lead to chronic pain. To fix this issue, the best thing to do is to rest for at least 48 hours and apply ice packs for 15-20 minutes each time. You can also take over-the-counter pain medications to help reduce the discomfort. If, after a few days, you still feel the same pain, it is recommended that you visit your doctor for further diagnosis and treatment. No one should suffer in silence, and your doctor can help determine what is causing the pain.
Stress and Anxiety
It’s no secret that stress and anxiety can have a significant impact on your physical health, including chronic low back pain. Stress creates muscle tension which can cause discomfort and even pain in your lower back. If you feel like you’re having a hard time managing your stress level, there are some things you can do to help. Exercise, mindfulness practice, and talking to someone you trust effectively manage stress and anxiety. Plus, don’t forget to take time for yourself every day to relax and unwind.
Knowing the common causes of chronic low back pain and how to fix them can help maintain your spine health and prevent the pain from getting worse. As always, if you’re having any issues with your back, it’s best to consult a doctor for further diagnosis and treatment. No one deserves to suffer from low back pain. So do your best to get it treated and take the necessary steps to prevent it from coming back.