Lower Back Pain: Risks and Prevention

Is tying your shoe laces a painful task every morning? Do you think twice before you bend over to sweep the floor? If your answer is YES, then here is what you need to know about lower back pain.

Risks factors

  • Ageing: The chances of back pain increases with your age. It generally starts from 30 plus with wear and tear of the spine. People between 30-60 years have disc related disorders while people over 60 have back related issues because of osteoarthritis.
  • Genetics: Certain types of spinal disorders like degenerative disc disease have genetic components.
  • Occupational risks: If you have a job that required you to stand for long hours, sit for long hours without proper back rest or do a lot of bending and lifting weights like construction workers do then you are at a higher risk.
  • Lack of exercise: If you are someone who does not exercise at all you may be at a risk of back pain. Weak and unused muscles often lead to back pain.
  • Being overweight: Being overweight puts extra stress on your back.
  • Diseases: Diseases such as cancer or arthritis also cause back pain.

Prevention is better than cure

There are other factors such as smoking, improper lifting, and psychological issues that may contribute to your back pain. Try following these simple preventive measures to keep your back pain at bay.

     Exercising helps prevent lower back pain and increases core stability

     Be cautious of hurting yourself when you lift weight

     Try different sleeping postures

     Wear low-heeled shoes and footwear that is comfortable

     Pick the right backpack or briefcase with wide adjustable straps.

     Change your lifestyle: stop smoking; improve your diet; and take up meditation or see a counselor to help manage your stress levels.

Take good care of your back, and it will always ‘have your back’!