Almost everyone has or will experience back pain at some point in life. It is a common problem and one of the leading reasons why people miss work in the United States. Fortunately, back pain can resolve independently or with simple home treatments and proper body mechanics. However, some back pain episodes may last for months, negatively affecting the quality of life. In such cases, your doctor may recommend Great Neck, NY pain management to eliminate or alleviate the pain. The following are the common causes of why you may have a sore back.
Pulled muscles, ligaments, or tendon
Most cases of back pain result from muscle or ligament strain. These soft tissues get strained due to repeated heavy lifting or sudden awkward movement. If your job involves lifting heavy objects, you want to employ the proper lifting techniques, like using your legs instead of your back. Anyone can strain their muscles and ligaments but being in poor physical condition elevates your risk. Therefore, building muscle strength and flexibility is essential to avoid hurting even with slight movements is essential. Back pain from a pulled muscle or ligament can cause painful muscle spasms.
Carrying heavy bags
You also strain your lower back when you wear your purse, backpack, or briefcase over your shoulder. That is because the lower back supports your upper body and any additional weight you carry. Therefore, an overstuffed bag can strain your lower back, especially if you carry it daily. When packing your bag for school or work, only carry essential items to avoid overloading.
Herniated discs
Discs are small, pillow-like structures that cushion the vertebrae stacking up to make your spine. They comprise a soft, jelly-like center called the nucleus and are enclosed by a tough membrane called the annulus. Over time, degenerative disc changes may cause the discs to slip out of place into the spinal cord. For example, the annulus gradually wears and tears, allowing the disc’s nucleus to push through a weak spot. Most people with diagnosed herniated discs have no symptoms, but if a disc presses on a nerve root, an individual may experience pain, numbness, tingling, and weakness.
The pain location depends on where along the spine a disc herniates. A herniated disc can occur anywhere along the sine, but it is less common in the thoracic region.
Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis is a common form of arthritis that occurs when the protective cartilage covering joints wear down, allowing bones to rub on each other. It is an age-related condition that is most likely to affect older adults. Osteoarthritis can affect any joint but commonly attacks the hips, spine, hands, and knees. The cartilage damage is irreversible, but treatment can help slow disease progression and alleviate symptoms, including pain.
Poor posture
Slouching when you sit or stand strains your spine, increasing your risk of back pain. Therefore, you should sit with good lumbar posture for your shoulders, and back with your feet resting on a stool. Keep weight evenly balanced on your feet when you stand to avoid back problems.
If your back pain doesn’t improve with simple home treatments, book an appointment with your doctor at AABP Integrative Pain Care for medical treatment to improve your quality of life.
