Back Pain

As a very common problem, 80% of adults will experience back pain. Once you have damaged this area, it is much more likely to be injured again.

It can be very debilitating, preventing you from doing you daily activities. The good news is that back pain can be prevented and treated.

Most back pain is in the lower region and is cause by muscle strain, injury and overuse. It can also be caused from ligaments and discs damage. The causes of back pain tend to accumulate- by trying to avoid one area you end up causing pain to another. Here are some of the few common causes:

• Injury or overuse of muscles, ligaments and joints
  
  
• Nerve root compression - it can be caused by a herniated disc, spondylosis (vertebrae defects that cause sliding) or fractures of the vertebra or spinal deformities
  
  
• Compression fractures.

Some uncontrollable and controllable risk factors for this condition are:

• Being middle-aged
• Being male.
• Having a family history of back pain.
• Having had previous back surgery.
• Having spine problems since birth
• Not getting regular exercise.
• Smoking.
• Being overweight.
• Having poor posture.
• Being under stress. Having long periods of depression.
• Using medicines long-term that weakens bones, such as corticosteroids.

Healthy habits are the best way to avoid getting this illness. Start early and make it a lifelong commitment.