Back pain strikes the majority of adults at some point in their lifetime. The good news is that most cases of back pain are mechanical in nature and are not caused by threatening conditions like fractures, infections, or cancer.
The back is a complex structure made up of many bones, joints, nerves, muscles, discs, and ligaments- any of which can be the source of pain. There are countless factors that can lead to back pain and it is crucial to identify not only which tissue is affected, but more importantly, what caused that tissue to fail in the first place.
Here are a few tips to help avoid some common underlying triggers of back problems:
- Never lift by bending your back. Always bend your hips and knees. Lower your entire body while performing a squat and keep the object close when lifting. Face the object you are lifting and avoid twisting your body.
- Maintain proper posture while sitting. This includes sitting up straight with both feet touching the floor. Use a backrest cushion if needed to maintain the arch in your lower back. Avoid slouching. Take frequent breaks from workstations and car rides.
- Wear the right footwear. Avoid high-heeled shoes or boots. Flat or low-heels are preferred. Make sure your shoes have proper arch support. Use orthotics if necessary.
- Exercise regularly. Keep your muscles strong and healthy with a combination of aerobic and resistance exercise, 3-5 days per week.
That last one can be tough if you’re already suffering with back pain. Many times, symptoms not only steal quality of life, but also cause you to become less active. This, in turn, causes more problems, such as stiffness, deconditioning, muscle weakness, and more pain.
Back pain is not something you should live with for the rest of your life. Last month, the American College of Physicians published a major study that identified the best treatments for low back pain. Among the recommendations: Avoid medication and use manipulation, exercise, massage, and acupuncture.
Our providers are experts at delivering those recommended services. Our goal is to help you get back to living a healthy and active lifestyle, pain-free, ASAP. So if you or someone you know is experiencing back pain, call our clinic today. Help is only a phone call away.
Book a visit or give us a call at (618) 236–3738! We’d be happy to answer any questions or concerns you may have.
