How many of you have experienced Low Back Pain?
Treating low back pain is an every day occurrence at Active and something we are highly skilled at!. Our aim is to reduce your discomfort and help your body back to optimal function. Alongside treatment (gentle chiropractic, we may add in acupuncture, massage, or all 3) this is likely to include advice on lifestyle, posture and exercises.
Low back pain is one of most common reasons people visit a doctor or miss days at work. Back pain can range in intensity from a dull, constant ache to a sudden, sharp or shooting pain. The pain may radiate down your leg or worsen with bending, twisting, lifting, standing or walking. It can begin suddenly as a result of an accident or by lifting something heavy, or it can develop over time as we age. Getting too little exercise followed by a strenuous workout also can cause back pain.
What can cause back pain
We get asked this all the time, as often there is no obvious reason to our patients! Back pain is more common as you get older, starting around age 30 or 40 and can occur for a variety of reasons, from the more obvious traumas, car accidents, falls, sporadic gardening sessions to poor posture, poor workstation, stress, the list goes on!
Lack of exercise. Weak, unused muscles in your back and abdomen might lead to back pain.
Excess weight. Excess body weight puts extra stress on your back.
Psychological conditions. People prone to depression and anxiety appear to have a greater risk of back pain.
Smoking. Smokers have increased rates of back pain. This may occur because smoking prompts more coughing, which can lead to herniated disks. Smoking can also decrease blood flow to the spine and increase the risk of osteoporosis.
How can you help yourself to avoid back pain
Exercise. Regular low-impact aerobic activities — those that don't strain or jolt your back — can increase strength and endurance in your back and allow your muscles to function better. Walking and swimming are good choices.
Build muscle strength and flexibility. Abdominal and back muscle exercises, which strengthen your core, help condition these muscles so that they work together like a natural corset for your back.
Maintain a healthy weight. Being overweight strains back muscles. If you're overweight, trimming down can prevent back pain.
Stop smoking!