If you’ve suffered back pain, you’re not alone. Around 80 percent of adults have experienced low back pain and if you haven’t yet experienced it, there’s a significant chance you will. This is especially true if you work in an occupation or engage in hobbies that cause you to overuse or underuse the muscles in your lower back.
You may have also heard that back pain causes a significant number of lost workdays for people just like you, which is true. Back pain is only second to the common cold in workdays missed every year. Low back pain may seem like no big deal at first, but it can severely limit your ability to lead a normal life and engage in your normal daily activities, including the required functions of your job.
What Contributes to Low Back Pain and Injuries
There are many different types of activities that can lead to low back pain and the injuries that come along with it. The most common types of injuries that cause low back pain are sprains and strains. While some of these pains may simply be caused by getting older, many young people under the age of 45 also suffer from low back pain and related injuries. These injuries can be caused or exacerbated by:
Lack of exercise. If you do not work out to strengthen your low back muscles. you may be more susceptible to injuries and pain.
Overuse of your back muscles. If you regularly do lifting at work, you may be at a high risk for experiencing strains, sprains, and pains in your lower back.
Incorrect movements. If you’ve ever heard the term, “Lift with your legs,” take heed. Lifting with your back muscles is one of the most common causes of pains and injuries in the low back.
Being overweight. If you are obese or extremely overweight, you will experience additional pressure on your low back that can make you more susceptible to injuries.
Although these are the most common causes of injury and pain, you should also avoid sitting for long periods of time, smoking, poor diet, and other lifestyle choices that can weaken your muscles and your ability to protect your back.