Lower back pain is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide. While many individuals assume that lower back pain is caused by a mechanical issue, such as a herniated disc or spinal stenosis, studies indicate that this is not always the case. In fact, many cases of lower back pain are related to lifestyle factors, including stress, lack of sleep, transition peroids like moving or changing jobs and lack of exercise.

WHY?
Stress is one of the leading contributors to lower back pain. Chronic stress causes the muscles in the lower back to tense up, leading to pain and discomfort. Additionally, stress can lead to inflammation in the body, which can exacerbate existing pain. One study published in the Journal of Psychosomatic Research found that individuals with high levels of stress were more likely to experience chronic lower back pain.
It is worth noting that imaging is typically unnecessary for individuals with lower back pain. While imaging can be useful in identifying serious structural issues, such as a tumor or fracture, the vast majority of lower back pain cases do not require imaging. In fact, imaging can often lead to unnecessary procedures and treatments that do not actually address the underlying issue.
HOW YOU CAN BE PAIN FREE
Conservative care, including movement therapy and physical therapy, are considered the keys to recovery for individuals with lower back pain. Movement therapy, which involves exercises that promote mobility and flexibility, has been found to be particularly effective in reducing lower back pain. Physical therapy, which involves a combination of movement therapy and manual therapy, has also been found to be effective in reducing pain and improving function in individuals with lower back pain.
DON'T GIVE INTO PAIN
Lower back pain is a common condition that can be caused by a variety of factors. While many individuals assume that lower back pain is always caused by a mechanical issue, studies indicate that this is not always the case. Lifestyle factors, including stress, poor posture, and lack of exercise, can also contribute to lower back pain. Conservative care, including movement therapy and physical therapy, are considered the keys to recovery for individuals with lower back pain. If you are experiencing lower back pain, conctact us to develop a treatment plan that is tailored to your specific needs.
References:
McBeth J, Jones K. Epidemiology of chronic musculoskeletal pain. Best Pract Res Clin Rheumatol. 2007;21(3):403-425. doi:10.1016/j.berh.2007.03.003
Henschke N, Ostelo RW, van Tulder MW, et al. Behavioural treatment for chronic low-back pain. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2010;(7):CD002014. doi:10.1002/14651858.CD002014.pub3
Fritz JM, Childs JD, Wainner RS, Flynn TW. Primary care referral of patients with low back pain to physical therapy: impact on future health care utilization and costs. Spine (Phila Pa 1976). 2012;37(25):2114-2121. doi:10.1097/BRS.0b013e318269d03a
Linton SJ. A review of psychological risk factors in back and neck pain. Spine (Phila Pa 1976). 2000;25(9):1148-1156. doi:10.1097/00007632-200005010-00017
Comments