If you’ve ever suffered with back pain, you’ll know the debilitating impact that it can have on your physical health. Everyday movements can become increasingly difficult, meaning you feel massively restricted in day-to-day life. Back pain can greatly decrease a person’s quality of life, so it is imperative that we look after our backs and spines, by incorporating a focus on back health into our fitness regimes.
According to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, lower back pain is the most common cause of job-related disability, and around 80% of adults will experience it at some point in their lifetimes. Therefore, back health is undeniably important in ensuring wellbeing in both personal and work capacities.
The causes of acute & chronic back pain
Back pain can be caused by a number of different factors and can impact anyone at any age. Some of the most common causes of back pain include bad posture, excess weight, heavy lifting, lack of exercise and increased stress or bodily tension. A lot of back pain however is non-specific (with no obvious cause) or mechanical, with pain stemming from joints, tissues or bones.
Prevention is better than cure
By actively maintaining a healthy back and spine, you will give yourself the best possible chance of avoiding any back injury. There are several pro-active ways for you to take care of your spine. These include:
- Regular exercise. Strong back muscles are essential for core stability and avoiding any unnecessary stresses to the body’s supportive structures, such as the ligaments and tissues. Back and core strengthening exercises, alongside full-body stretches, will help to strengthen your spine, and increase your flexibility and overall wellbeing.
- Eat well & drink water. Being overweight can increase the likelihood of back pain, as it puts additional stress on the body’s muscles. A balanced diet will help you to maintain a healthy overall body weight, and staying hydrated contributes to soft tissue elasticity and fluidity in your joints.
- Lift & work correctly. Whether your job is physical and includes heavy lifting, or desk-based with little movement, risks to your back health are always present. If lifting is part of your daily routine, you must take into account proper lifting procedures that will help to avoid damage to your spine. If your job is more sedentary, ensure that your workspace is fully functional and that you hold a good posture whilst sitting at your desk.
How can existing back pain be alleviated?
Sometimes, even with the best prevention techniques, back pain will still occur. If you’re experiencing acute or chronic back pain, our specialist chiropractors at The Health Lodge can help you to find relief.
We have a range of care services available, including: chiropractic and spinal care, osteopathy, physiotherapy and massage therapy. If you’re suffering with back pain, or if you would like any information about the services we offer, please feel free to get in touch today, and one of our friendly team will be happy to help.