Preventing Back Pain

Preventing Back Pain

manual therapy

Approximately 80% of all Americans will suffer from back pain during their life. For some it will often be temporary but for many it will become chronic. Back pain can affect those from any age group, fitness level or gender. Here are some of the most common causes of back pain.

Sprains and strains – sprains involve over stretching or tearing of ligaments and strains are stretching or tearing of muscle and tendons. This can often occur from poor lifting technique or lifting too heavy of a weight.

Disc degeneration – there is a spongy layer between each of your vertebrae and as we age these discs become less spongy. This spongy layer acts as a cushion and shock absorber and loose that ability as we age.

Spinal Stenosis – this is a condition where the spinal column narrows and increases pressure and the spinal cord and nerves which can also lead to loss of sensation.

So how can we prevent back pain?

Maintain a strong core, this will help support and reduce stress on the bones and support of the back.

Maintain a healthy weight, this will also reduce stress and sheer forces on the spine.

Always use proper lifting techniques – bend your knees and keep your back straight. Drive through your legs, if there is any strain than get help.

This is not a complete list of causes and strategies but provides a starting point.

 

Mike Van Nice, PTA

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