Sep 8, 2020

Lower Back Pain? This May be the Cause

Healthy Living.

Many adults experience lower back pain but often don’t realize that their everyday activities are the cause of it. Back pain can interfere with your life, so it is important to pinpoint the cause and make changes that will help alleviate the pain

What’s Causing My Lower Back Pain?

Two of the most common causes of lower back pain are inactivity or exercising incorrectly.
People who spend large portions of their days sitting at a desk are more likely to experience lower back pain. Getting up and walking every hour can help. Using a standing desk instead of sitting can also be a good solution.
Surprisingly, exercise can also be a cause of lower back pain.  Lifting weights incorrectly can put strain on your back.  Additionally, if you neglect strengthening your core muscles, exercise can make lower back pain worse.

How Can I Prevent Lower Back Pain?

In addition to exercising correctly and making sure that you don’t sit for long periods, there are some things you can do to prevent lower back pain.
  • Work on improving posture: strengthening your core and upper back muscles can improve you posture. Be mindful of how you sit and stand, and how that may be causing pain.
  • Stay hydrated: dehydration can cause cramps and muscle spasms; often these can be felt in the lower back muscles.

How Can I Treat My Lower Back Pain?

There are several treatment you can try at home to relieve lower back pain.
  • Use heat and ice: apply an ice pack or heating pad for 10-20 minutes a few times per day.
  • Lie flat on the floor for a few minutes each day.
  • Take an anti-inflammatory to help relieve pain and inflammation.
  • See a physical therapist: A physical therapist can help you strengthen certain muscles that will help correct bad posture and relieve pain.

When Should I See My Doctor for Lower Back Pain?

While there are lifestyle changes and home remedies for lower back pain, there are times when it may be good to consult your doctor about your pain. If your pain has been ongoing for a few weeks, it may be good to tell your doctor so that it doesn’t become worse. 
 
If, along with your back pain, you are experiencing numbness, tingling, pain that radiates down your back, or bowel problems, you should notify your doctor. These symptoms could be a sign that your back pain is caused by another issue.
Crisp Regional’s Pain Management Center is here to help you determine how best to manage your pain. Ultimately, it’s important not to ignore your back pain. Some simple lifestyle changes could make all the difference in allowing you to live pain-free.

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