Healthy Living

What Causes Back Pain?

What Causes Back Pain?

Back pain is a common ailment that affects everyone at some point in time. The pain differs in its severity, ranging from mild to unbearable. It can affect any age group but is very common for people between 30-years-old and 50-years-old. Majority of people have recurring pain.

Any of the causes that affect the components of an individual's back may lead to this agonizing pain. This includes the multitude of problems that affect muscles, ligaments, tendons, discs, and bones that together make up the complex structure of our back.

Causes for back pain:

  • Strain – Straining muscles or ligaments by activities like improper lifting of heavy objects or an awkward movement may result in back pain. Overexertion of the body parts leads to muscle spasms and strain affecting back.
  • Structural problems – Rupturing or bulging of disks that cushion our vertebrae, arthritis, osteoporosis or an abnormal curvature of the spine may all lead to a shooting pain at the back.
  • Poor posture – One of the most common causes of back pain is poor posture while sitting and standing. This includes sitting improperly while working and driving which affects the posture of the back. It also includes
  • Awkward bending
  • Pushing and pulling objects
  • Lifting heavy objects
  • Standing for prolonged periods
  • Coughing
  • Muscle tension
  • Driving for a long time at a stretch
  • Over-stretching

The most common cause for the pain is the strain inflicted on the muscles surrounding the spinal cord. This is mostly seen in the muscles in the lower back and base of the neck. In some cases, it is difficult to point out the real reason behind the pain. The pain is most likely caused by weak muscles that are stressed by everyday activities, including stretching, walking, and bending. Tension, lack of quality sleep, and stress may also result in back pain. Continued stress for a long time may result in myofascial tension that causes chronic pain in the back.

In women, pregnancy is one of the most common causes for back pain, as increased body weight and hormonal changes brings about considerable muscle strain. Injuries from falls, accidents, and contact sports may also result in muscle strain leading to back pain.