According to a study presented by Georgetown University, back pain affects as many as 16 million adults. All chronic pain can affect daily living, but back pain, especially, can make working and living independently difficult. Finding ways to counteract your back pain is crucial, but it’s only possible when you know the source of the pain. That’s why knowing you need to know the common health problems that impact your back.
Sprains and Strains
Rigorous activity causes a majority of the cases of back pain. This usually involves a sprain—an injury to the tissue between the bone—or a strain, which is pulling the muscle itself. Rigorous activity such as labor-intensive jobs or high-intensity workouts increases the risk of these types of injuries. However, less rigorous activities, such as gardening or sitting with poor posture, can also lead to repetitive stress injuries in the back over time.
Disk Problems
Most of us know that our spines are made of a series of vertebrae. However, not as many people realize there are disks filled with soft material that act as cushions between the vertebrae. When these disks become ruptured or damaged, this can cause serious pain and mobility issues. Avoiding disk problems requires taking steps to keep your spine healthy. This means using proper lifting techniques, stretching regularly, and having an active lifestyle.
Arthritis
We tend to think of arthritis as a condition that affects the hands and feet. But arthritis can attack the joints between the bones in any part of the body. This includes the spine. Of the different forms of arthritis, osteoarthritis is the most common health condition impacting the back. This type of arthritis breaks down the cartilage between bones. Medication can help osteoarthritis symptoms, but lifestyle changes such as weight loss and exercise are also beneficial.
Back pain can affect every area of our lives, but that doesn’t mean we’re powerless against it. By working with a physician to identify the root of the pain, you can address it for better relief.
Christina Duron is a writer living in the Chicagoland area. Her passion for writing and health helps her create thought-provoking, engaging pieces, and she hopes to use them to empower readers to play a more active role in their personal health care journeys.
