Most people get their first taste of low back pain in their 30s. Low back pain is a universal human experience--almost everyone has it at some point in their lifetime. The odds increase with age. The lower back, which starts below the ribcage, is called the lumbar region. Pain here can be intense and is one of the top causes of missed work. Fortunately, low back pain often gets better on its own. When it doesn't, there are effective treatments, such as spine decompression therapy.
There are many culprits that can cause low back pain, including:
- Your Job - lifting, pulling, or anything that twists the spine, or sitting at a desk all day.
- Your Bag – an overstuffed bag, especially if you carry it day after day. Although you may wear your purse, backpack, or briefcase over your shoulder, it is the lower back that supports the upper body. Consider switching to a wheeled briefcase.
- Your Workout -- Overdoing it at the gym, softball field, or golf course is one of the most common causes of overextended muscles, especially if you tend to be inactive during the work week.
- Your Posture -- Your back supports weight best when you don't slouch. This means sitting with good lumbar support for your lower back, and shoulders, with feet resting on a low stool. When standing, keep weight evenly balanced on both feet.
- Herniated Disc -- The spine's vertebrae are cushioned by gel-like discs that are prone to wear and tear from aging or injuries. A weakened disc may rupture or bulge, putting pressure on the spinal nerve roots, and causing intense pain.
- Chronic Conditions -- Several chronic conditions can lead to low back pain, such as spinal stenosis (a narrowing of the space around the spinal cord, putting pressure on the spinal nerves), spondylitis (chronic back pain and stiffness due to severe inflammation of the spinal joints), fibromyalgia (causes widespread muscle aches, including back pain).
Prevent Low Back Pain
There's no sure way to prevent back pain as you age, but there are steps you can take to lower your risk:
- Stay at a healthy weight.
- Exercise regularly.
- Lift with your legs, not your back.
- Make sure your workstation position is correct.
Our doctors at McKim Chiropractic specialize in spine decompression therapy and treat qualifying patients with the DRS Protocol™, a non-surgical alternative to treat back pain associated with spinal and disc problems. Call McKim Chiropractic or go to https://www.mckimchiropractic.com for more information about spine decompression therapy. Our licensed and certified staff is happy to help the residents of Nampa, ID obtain pain-free living.
