Lower back pain is the leading cause of disability worldwide. An estimated 80% of people will experience back pain at some point in their lives. It can result from any number of things, and it rarely stems from a serious health issue. Most of the time it is caused by something that you can fix.
Here are a few things that could be causing your back pain:
An Unhealthy Diet
Being overweight increases the risk for back problems, so it’s important to maintain a healthy weight. A poor diet will lead to weight gain, back pain, and painful joints.
A Sedentary Lifestyle
Inactivity can lead to weight gain, which we know causes back pain. Exercise strengthens the muscles that support your back, which can help prevent back pain. Focus on exercises that are aimed at strengthening your core and back muscles. Stretching and cardio exercises are also extremely effective for alleviating back pain. Try to exercise two to three times a week to see results.
Bad Posture
Poor posture is one of the leading causes of back pain. Slumping your shoulders can lead to muscle spasms and put pressure on your nerves. When sitting, keep your ears aligned with your shoulders, your shoulders directly over your hips, and your hips over your ankles. It’s important that you’re aware of your posture when engaged in a prolonged activity. When using an electronic device, like a smartphone, be sure to keep the screen at eye level to prevent slouching.
Sitting Still
Despite what your mother told you, we should not sit still. The body is meant for activity. Whether you’re sitting at your desk, driving your car, or standing in one place for an extended amount of time, be sure to take a short walk at least every 45 minutes. This will help maintain strength and a balanced posture.
Old Shoes
Wearing shoes with worn soles can lead to back pain. Be sure to keep an eye on your footwear. Replacing old shoes, or even old inserts, could alleviate back pain.
An Old Mattress
We’ve all had to spend a night on a terrible mattress at some point in our lives, and have felt the painful effects the next day. A mattress should support your body without causing you to sink in when you lie down. Memory foam mattresses are perfect for providing firm but comfortable support.
At Advanced Wellness and Rehab, we provide safe and effective back pain relief, with a focus on long lasting results. If you’re experiencing back pain, call us today for your free consultation.
