8 Risk Factors For Back Pain
RISK FACTORS FOR BACK PAIN CALGARY
Lower back pain is very common. Back pain causes can arise from muscle strain or sprain in spinal ligaments of the back. More potential causes can lead to low back pain, and here we will take a look at eight risk factors that can cause an increased likelihood of an episode of back pain.
WHAT ARE RISK FACTORS?
Risk factor means that each factor can increase a person’s chances of developing a disease. For example, smoking is a risk factor for lung cancer, obesity is a risk factor for heart disease, and a sedentary lifestyle is a risk factor for obesity.
Age. Most Back pains start at around age 30 or 40, and it’s even more common as you get older.
Fitness level. When you are deconditioned or out of shape. Untrained and unused muscles around your abdomen, especially the core muscles, can lead to back pain
Excess weight. More weight around your abdomen means more stress for the spine to handle. Excessive weight around the abdomen can be linked with obesity as well.
Systemic Diseases. Different types of arthritis and cancer can contribute to back pain. Some inherited conditions such as Ankylosing spondylitis, a genetic form of low back pain disease, can cause fusion of facet joints together to cause immobility and back pain.
Compromised lifting technique. Using your back instead of your legs can lead to back pain. However, if you use your legs without properly engaging the core muscles can also lead to back pain.
Underlying psychological conditions. The medical field has brought more awareness to depression and anxiety associated with increased pain levels. It is important to note that depression and anxiety can pose a greater risk for back pain.
Smoking. Smokers have increased rates of back pain. This is because smoking has a higher frequency to cause more coughing, which can put pressure on spinal discs to cause bulge discs. Smoking can also decrease blood flow to the spine and increase the risk of osteoporosis.
Heavy Backpack for kids. Having heavier backpacks puts more stress on young children’s back muscles. It is suggested that the backpack's weight should not exceed more than 20% of the children’s body weights as a rule of thumb.
What is your next step for back pain?
After going through these eight risk factors, not all risk factors can be managed with a Calgary chiropractor. Things like systemic diseases require additional medical attention; thus, your chiropractor will be in contact with your family physician and update each other on the progress of the underlying medical illness. Risk factors such as compromised lifting technique, fitness level, and heavy backpacks can all be consulted with a chiropractor. At the Precision Performance & Wellness – Calgary Chiropractor, we have the best chiropractor in Calgary to help you give the best advice you need and treatment for back pain if you are currently dealing with it.
Additional Resources for Back Pain Risk Factor:
Physical Activity Guideline for 24-Hour Movement - From CSEP Guideline
Bad Backs and backpacks - Harvard Health
Symptoms and Causes for Back Pain Calgary - Precision Performance & Wellness
Risk Factors for Back Pain Calgary - Google my business
Q & A on Risk Factors for Back Pain
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Muscle and ligament sprains and strains are the most common cause for back pain. Most often, people gets injuries in their back due to improper lifting technique or lifting heavy objects without engaging core muscles.
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Yes, stress, anxiety, and mental conditions like depression all can lead to an increased likelihood of having back pain.
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