Finding the Cause of Lower Back Pain

The lower back is where the upper and lower portion of our bodies are connected. This area of our body takes a lot of wear and tear, so it is understandable that most people will suffer from lower back pain at some point in their life.  In fact, statistics state that as many as 80% of Americans’ will suffer back pain at some point in their life and for many lower back pain will be the problem that afflicts them. 

Luckily, there are many ways to treat lower back pain, but it is important before starting treatment that you understand the source of the lower back pain.  When you understand where the pain comes from you can choose the most effective treatment.  Many times when the lower back pain starts will help you to determine the cause. 

Muscle Strain 

Muscle strain is the most common cause of lower back pain.  It is very easy to strain the muscles of the lower back, especially if you don’t take great care to protect this region of your body.  In most cases, lifting heavy objects is the cause of lower back pain.  Too many of us don’t bend the knees when we lift, which forces the back to do the work, instead of receiving assistance from the strong muscles of the leg. 

Muscle strain is also commonly done through daily activities such as sweeping, mopping, raking, gardening, and vacuuming.  Any activity that causes us to bend at the waist can cause strain.  Usually taking over the counter pain medication and applying hot and cold packs will help to heal the strains and get you back on your feet again. 

Poor Posture 

Remember when you were a child and your mother always got after you about sitting up straight?  She had good reason!  Poor posture is a common cause of lower back pain and it is often difficult to remedy.  Poor posture is learned behavior, something that becomes harder and harder to unlearn as you age. 

Fortunately, some braces or supports can be worn to help you improve your poster and reduce the lower back pain, but they cannot be worn all the time.  Exercising and strengthening these muscles will also help you to improve your posture.  Keep your mind on your posture and you may just see an improvement in the pain.   

There are many causes of lower back pain.  Many times these are just wear and tear pains that can be treated with rest, over the counter pain medications, as well as exercise.  Be sure to pin point the cause of your lower back pain so it can be treated as efficiently and as effectively as possible so you can get back on your feet.