Common Back Problems and Their Causes | Physical Therapy for Back Pain

Decoding The Causes of Common Back Problems

Are you in a world of pain every time you move? You’re definitely not alone. Four in five people suffer from back pain. Understanding the causes of common back problems can help you determine what treatment to seek so you can feel better faster.

Causes of Common Back Problems

Whether you’re an athlete, a gamer, a gardener or somewhere in between, chances are you’ll eventually deal with some sort of back pain. Even simple, everyday activities that you do without even thinking, such as tying a pair of shoes, sitting at your desk, or getting out of bed in the morning can “make or break” your spinal health.

Many back problems are muscle strains or joint sprains. These are typically brought on by overuse or injuries, such as repetitive lifting, car accidents or slip and falls. Other times, a pinched nerve can create back pain. But, a lot of times, chronic back pain results from smaller lifestyle factors, for instance poor posture wears down the back over time, leading to bigger problems.

So, what causes this buildup to happen? A number of triggers can be to blame.

Here are some clues to help you decode the causes to common back problems so you can determine the right treatment approach.

Being Sedentary

Your level of activity can play a role in back health. When you’re sedentary, your muscles that support the spine can weaken and become more prone to injury. Exercise can help to maintain a healthy back.

But, exercising must be done with proper form, such as rounding the back during deadlifts, for example, can put unwanted stress on the spine. Never substitute proper technique for increased intensity when exercising. Not only is there an increased risk of injury but also the full benefit of the exercise is reduced.

Too Much Screen Time/Slouching

Nine hours. That’s how long the average individual spends in front of a screen each day. The increasing use of technology, like smartphones and tablets, is a leading cause of upper back pain. Often, people slouch or hunch over while using devices or working on a computer. This leads to more aches and pains in the back, neck and shoulders. Sitting for too long puts more pressure on the vertebrae than standing, further exacerbating back problems..

For a simple upper back reliever at home or work, stretch your neck for 10-15 seconds in the forward, left and right positions, and rotate your head to direction. Repeat this 4-5 times a day.

Being Overweight

Being overweight or obese does increase the risk to structural compromise or damage to the spine. The low back, or lumbar spine, is the most vulnerable region of the spine to the effects of obesity.

In fact, the American Journal of Epidemiology published a review that assessed data from 95 high-quality studies and concluded that the risk of lower back pain was directly related to increases in body mass index (BMI). The research stated that people of normal weight were at lowest risk, overweight people had a moderate risk, while those who were obese had the highest risk overall. A study from the University of Tokyo Hospital in Japan came to a similar conclusion.

Wearing the Wrong Footwear

Sure, you’ve probably heard that high-heels can lead to back problems, but some flats can cause trouble, as well. Flip-flops or sandals offer little—if any—arch support. Wearing flip-flops continuously can lead to foot, knee and back problems in the future.

Your best bet is to alternate footwear throughout the week instead of wearing the same style every day. If you walk as part of your commute, wear supportive sneakers, then slip on more fashionable footwear when you get to the office.

Other Common Back Problems

Other common factors that lead to chronic back problems include, arthritis of the spine, sprain or strain, injuries, nerve compression, bulging disc and/or degenerative disc disease.

Multiple studies have also established a link between smoking and lower back pain, as smoking is known to raise inflammation, and decrease circulation hindering the body’s healing process.

Read More: Spine Rehab Common Questions

Read More: Common Complaints for Dealing with Back Pain

Physical Therapy Treatment for Common Back Problems

Even though back problems are common, they are still painful. At Twin Boro, pain-free motion is our goal. One of our knowledgeable physical therapists can help you accomplish that.

As one of the best physical therapy centers in NJ, Twin Boro utilizes a unique One2Four approach to help patients find the upper and lower back pain relief they need. Call the skilled experts at1-732-444-3578 or schedule an appointment to learn more about Twin Boro Physical Therapy in NJ and obtain a treatment plan made specifically for you, with in-office therapy and a plan for back pain treatment at home..

Find out more about Spinal Orthopaedic Rehab >>

Find out more about Neurological Physical Therapy >>

Twin Boro Physical Therapy: Voted Readers’ Choice Best of New Jersey

Voted Readers’ Choice Best of New Jersey, Twin Boro has provided NJ residents with high quality physical therapy and rehab for over 38 years! It’s our award-winning approach, proven results and reputation that sets us apart. By incorporating the One2Four program into each patient’s program, the latest and most reliable scientific research and techniques are incorporated into effective evidence-based practice. We deliver only the highest standard of care with the unique One2Four approach.

It’s no surprise that Twin Boro Physical Therapy has also been voted the best physical therapy practice in New Jersey by the readers of mycentraljersey.com.