Back pain

The complaint of low back pain is among the most common medical problems. To begin on the positive side, patients must understand that most episodes of back pain resolve, and usually within a few weeks. Unfortunately, back pain can be among the most difficult and frustrating problems for patients and their doctors.

Causes

Sudden injury to the back such as may occur in an auto accident, fall, or other manner.

Gynecological conditions such as endometriosis, menstrual cramps, fibroid tumors, and pregnancy are sometimes the cause of lower back pain in women.

Stress to the muscles, nerves, or ligaments in the lower back.

Certain jobs such as those that require repetitive movements, sitting in chairs that are not ergonomically proper for your back, or standing for long periods of time often increase back stress and cause lower back pain.

Arthritis, osteoporosis, osteoarthritis, and other bone or joint diseases often cause lower back pain.

Not getting enough physical activity, being sedentary, or being overweight often stresses the lower back causing pain.

Slipped discs, pinched nerves, sciatica, aging, and infections are other common causes of lower back pain.

Prevention Techniques

The most important preventive measure for lower back pain is practicing good posture when standing and sitting. During the day, you’re using your back muscles constantly, and these strained and weakened muscles need the additional support good posture can provide. Sit up straight, round your shoulders back and hold your head high.

The body’s foundation starts with the feet, so minor changes in shoes – buying more therapeutic shoes, avoiding high heels, giving your feet support with orthotics (shoe inserts) – can also help limit the strain feet place on the hips and back.

Strengthen your back muscles to prevent injury by stretching and performing back toning exercises – use the low back machine at your local gym – on a regular basis.

If you already have an injury, or are experiencing some back pain, companies like FootSmart make many products for back support, including back cushions, back supports, back support pillows and more. These products can help improve your posture and provide good support to relieve your lower back pain.