Back pain is one of the most common health problems in the world. According to the World Health Organization, it is also among the top 10 diseases and injuries responsible for disability-adjusted life years (number of years lost due to health problems). It can affect people of any age, potentially affecting their working life and overall well-being.
Fortunately, there are some simple techniques you can use to avoid common causes of back pain. This article will identify these techniques and explain how they can also reduce the level of back pain you are currently experiencing.
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What are the common causes of back pain?
The human back is a complex system of muscles, bones, tendons, and ligaments. These components must work together to support the body and allow movement. The column also contains cartilage-like pads called discs. They provide cushioning between the components of the spine. Problems that affect any of the back components can lead to back problems. The most common causes of back problems include:
Excessive physical effort
Improperly picking up heavy items or bending over repeatedly can force the muscles, tendons, and ligaments in the back. The pain of overexertion can occur quickly or take many months to appear.
Accident
An injury usually causes back pain due to an accident. The most common accidents that cause back injuries include car accidents, sports field collisions, and falls. These injuries may include ruptured discs, broken bones, and torn ligaments or tendons.
Medical conditions
A variety of medical conditions can cause back pain, including osteoporosis, spinal cancer, sleep disorders, kidney problems, arthritis, and sciatica. In some cases, these conditions cannot be cured; therefore, the pain they cause can only be managed.
Ruptured or protruding discs
Sometimes the discs between each vertebra of the spine may rupture or change shape. When this happens, more pressure is put on the nerves in the back, potentially causing back problems.
Poor posture
Poor posture can eventually contribute to back pain and may even cause long term damage.
How to Avoid Common Causes of Back Pain
Seek help in Chiropractic
Getting chiropractic care is one of the most effective ways to reduce back pain. A chiropractor is a medical professional trained to identify and treat musculoskeletal problems of the human body. They can identify the causes of your pain and suggest treatments that address them.
Some of the ways a chiropractor can help you avoid pain causes include:
- · Ensure Your Spine Is Aligned Properly Chiropractic care involves the alignment of the spine and other joints in the body. Correcting joint alignment will prevent premature wear and may reduce the likelihood of pain.
- · Identifying Any Problems with Your Posture Chiropractors can diagnose and correct postural problems that cause back pain.
- · Diagnosing Serious Illnesses or Injuries that Cause Back Pain Chiropractors can also identify other serious health problems that can potentially contribute to pain, such as ruptured discs and sciatica.
Sleep on your back
When you are sitting, walking, running, and lifting all day, your spine may become compressed. Lying on your back gives your spine a chance to recover, reducing the likelihood of back pain.
Exercise more
An exercise that strengthens the core muscles can be beneficial in reducing or preventing back pain. The core muscles are the muscles found in the abdominal and lower back. If these muscles are well developed, they will relieve the strain on the ligaments and tendons in the back, which can reduce pain levels. Having a strong core also reduces the risk of a back injury.
Buy a good pair of shoes.
If you stand for long periods, buy a pair of high-quality shoes that will fit your feet well. This will ensure your body has a stable, well-balanced base that supports your legs and back. This will help to prevent back problems associated with ligament, muscle, or tendon strains.
Get regular massages
Massages can help relax back muscles and increase blood flow. This can help you stay flexible while avoiding sore muscles and painful ligaments.
Diagnosed medical problems
If you have unexplained back pain, it is a good idea to consult a doctor. They will be able to perform tests to check your overall health and identify any health conditions that may be causing your pain. Your doctor can also help you identify health problems before they get worse and cause even more pain.
Practice good ergonomics and improve your posture
Good posture involves standing, sitting, and moving in a way that reduces the amount of tension in your body. When you exhibit good posture, your joints are well aligned – reducing the risk of injury or wear to your back joints. This reduces the risk of long-term injuries, which causes back pain.
