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17 Feb Why Does My Back Keep Hurting?

Posted at 08:28h in Pain Management by

Musculoskeletal disorders are among the most prevalent long-term illnesses, and account for more pain and disability than any other medical condition. The most commonly reported musculoskeletal complaint is Low Back Pain (LBP). It has been extensively reported that in up to 85% of all cases of low back pain is diagnosed as Non-Specific meaning we do not know why it occurs.

There are many risk factors that may predispose people to back pain including but not limited to:

  • Occupational hazards/conditions/postures
  • Genetics
  • Pregnancy
  • An acute injury e.g. a blow to the back

 

However in many cases back pain can strike without the presence of any risk factors. Observations from clinical practice reveal that low back pain has a strong tendency to recur, “ups” and “downs”.  It is the ups and downs of back pain that ultimately lead to the weakening of the deep spinal stabilisers. The muscles of spine unfortunately do not automatically recover once pain subsides leading to further up and downs.

What Can I do:

  • Keep moving, the intuitive reaction when pain strikes is to rest, in many cases this leads to longer recovery times. Continue gentle movement that does not increase your pain.
  • Ideally perform exercise which Isolate and progressively strengthen the deep muscles of the spine, in order to return them to optimal health.
  • Become active, maintain general health and fitness which will help avoid future episodes of back pain – Exercise is Medicine.

 

Seek Professional Help

Persistent prolonged back pain can be debilitating, leading to a loss of movement, avoidance of usual activity, absence from work and potentially early withdrawal from the workforce. These can ultimately lead to a worst case scenario of psychosocial upset and a self-enforced mental and physical downward spiral.

An Accredited Exercise Physiologist will use their in depth understanding of the human body and prescription of exercise to tailor a plan to address your back pain and assist you to return to your normal activities.

 

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