Millions of people suffer from lumbar pain every year. This type of pain can be caused by a variety of factors, some of which are unavoidable, while others can be managed or avoided with some simple lifestyle changes.
In this blog, we will discuss the various risk factors that contribute to lumbar pain, offer some tips for managing pain, as well as where you can go to find treatment for lumbar pain in Johnson City, TN.
What Is Lumbar Pain?
Lumbar pain, also known as lower back pain, is a common problem that affects millions of people every year. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including recent injury, aging, lifestyle choices, and underlying medical conditions. Some of these risk factors are unavoidable, but others can be managed or avoided with some simple lifestyle changes.
Risk Factors for Low-Back Pain
Recent Injury
Have you ever lifted a heavy box and felt your lower back twinge as you strain to pick it up? It’s likely you’ve injured your lumbar spine and will have pain for the next few weeks. It turns out this sort of event is quite common – two out of every three adults suffer from back pain at some point in their lives. Fortunately, about 97% of back pain cases are due to a sudden functional or mechanical back injury and tend to heal quickly and completely with time and rest.
To avoid such issues, never attempt to pick up heavy items by yourself. Get a friend to help and always live with your legs, not your back.
Aging
The spine comprises bones stacked on top of each other, called vertebrae. In between these bones lie cushion-like tissue called discs that help absorb the force of walking, running, and everyday activities.
Unfortunately, as we get older, the quality of the vertebrae and discs tends to diminish. After age 40, the discs in our spine begin to deteriorate, which can lead to pain and stiffness in the spine. As such, if you are above the age of 40, take precautions to keep your back safe. Don’t live heavy items on your own, exercise and play sports safely, and maintain a healthy weight.
Lifestyle
There are some lifestyle choices that can increase your risk of developing lumbar pain. If you live a sedentary lifestyle, you are more likely to experience back pain than those who are active, because your back muscles are weaker, tire out more quickly, and do not provide as much support to your spine as needed. In addition, sitting for long periods of time puts extra strain on the spine. Other lifestyle choices that can contribute to lumbar pain include smoking, obesity, and poor posture. These factors weaken body structures, which makes back pain a more likely reality, especially as you get older.
How to Manage Risk Factors that Cause Lumbar Pain
There are some simple lifestyle changes that you can make to help manage the risk factors for lumbar pain. If you live a sedentary lifestyle, add some physical activities to your day. Taking a brisk walk or going for a light jog are great ways to get moving without putting too much strain on your back. If you are a smoker, quitting is the best thing you can do for your overall health, including for your back. If you are carrying extra weight, losing even a few pounds can help reduce the amount of stress on your spine. Finally, be sure to practice good posture when sitting, standing, and moving to avoid putting unnecessary strain on your back.
Orthopedic Specialists in Northeast Tennessee and Southwest Virginia
If you are suffering from lumbar pain, several risk factors may contribute to it, but practicing good posture and living a healthy lifestyle can substantially decrease your symptoms.
At Watauga Orthopedics, our orthopedic surgeons, physician assistants, APRNs, and physical therapists are all dedicated to treating lumbar pain and other musculoskeletal injuries. We help our patients recover quickly and teach them ways to prevent future injury by promoting a healthy lifestyle and good posture habits. To schedule an appointment, call us at (423) 282-9011 or fill out our appointment request form. We look forward to serving you!
