Back pain – 5 sneaky causes!
Back pain is one of the world’s most prevalent health problems, almost everyone will experience pain in their lower back at some point in their lives!
In fact, 1 in 6 people in England are coping with some form of back pain. Arthritis Research UK estimates that 9 million people in England live with back pain. Sixty-one per cent, or approximately 5.5 million people suffer from a severe case. The report also stated that low back pain is the leading cause of disability in the U.K.
Backpain is often not a disease itself but a symptom of a musculoskeletal condition, the pain varies in severity, ranging from uncomfortable to debilitating enough that the person is forced to give up working full- time and has difficulties completing everyday tasks!
While herniated discs, spinal trauma and pulled muscles are well known causes of back pain, there may not always be an obvious trigger for the ongoing discomfort. Let’s take a look at 5 sneaky causes of back pain!
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Working from home!
The dining room table, bed and couch just can’t match an office desk and ergonomic chair. If you work from home and you don’t have your workspace set up correctly, long hours on the computer can wreak havoc on your back, neck and even hands.
Do everything possible to recreate a back healthy work zone in your home. Stick with good habits like sitting straight, getting up for breaks and doing exercises that stretch and strengthen the back.
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Smoking!
Avoid smoking, as this is a known cause of back pain and disc deterioration. Research has shown that smoking cigarettes not only increases the risk of developing osteoporosis as you age but damages the arteries in your back muscles and joints.
Nicotine is also a vasoconstrictor, meaning it causes blood vessels to narrow – in turn decreasing the amount of nutrients and oxygen the spine receives.
If you aren’t prepared to give up smoking, try reducing how much you smoke – let’s face it – anything is better than nothing!
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How you sleep!
Adults need 7 to 9 hours of sleep each night. If you are waking up after a night’s rest with a sore back, the way you are curling up in bed may be to blame.
Despite common misconceptions – there is no “best” or “one size fits all” sleep position. Basic anatomy and health conditions can impact what feels most comfortable to you.
Do what you can to get some back friendly rest, make sure you have a supportive mattress and if you lie on your side place a pillow between your knees if it makes you more comfortable.
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Carrying too much!
It is not just a problem for our kids – adults face painful consequences from overstuffing their bags as well!
Back packs can be a better choice that shoulder bags and briefcases – when worn correctly. Follow the advice you give to your kids:
- Wear both straps.
- Only pack what you truly need.
- Place heavy items at the bottom and towards the centre.
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Lack of Vitamin D!
Vitamin D supports strong bones and well-functioning nerves and muscles. Over time, you may develop health problems if you don’t get enough Vitamin D, especially in the long dark days of winter that we have in the U.K.
If you have muscle spasms or chronic pain, consider asking your G.P. to test your Vitamin D level – it could be the root cause of your pain!
On a final note ………
When you begin to notice you have a painful back, try to pinpoint the trigger – it could be one of the five sneaky causes of back pain discussed here!
However, it may be time to speak to your Chiropractor if a sore back begins to interfere with your daily activities and sleep!
If you would like some further information or to speak to a member of our team please call us on: Hitchin 01462 420077 or Luton 01582 579687, alternatively e-mail us at: hitchin@healesclinics.com or luton@healesclinics.com