7 Surprising Causes of Back Pain

Contributed by Dr. Todd Wendell of Ruby Mountain Chiropractic and The Nectar IV Nutrition

Back pain plagues more than 1 in 10 people worldwide. 

And when we think of back pain, we often think of injury, accident, or overuse. But there are many other, less commonly known, causes of back pain. Knowing these may help you pinpoint the cause of your pain and help you discover a way to fix it.

 

Lack of exercise. 

Try to incorporate cardiovascular and strength training exercises into your routine a few days a week, focusing on your abs and back muscles for a strong, supportive core.

Your phone. 

Headphones are a great solution that allow you to keep better posture when on long phone calls. Be mindful of texting, too, as bending your neck to look down at your phone can cause similar pain.

Your office chair. 

If your office chair is not supportive, is uncomfortable, or you don’t get up and move every 45 minutes to an hour, it may only be a matter of time before your back starts to feel the effects.

Worn out shoes.

If you spend a lot of time in one pair of shoes, make sure they’re supportive and the soles aren’t worn out. Proper arch support is crucial and without it your gait is impacted, which can lead to back pain.

Mattress. 

If your mattress is old, you sink into it when you lie down, or it’s just not supporting you in a way that’s comfortable, it may be time to replace it. Lean toward the firmer, more supportive side if you’re dealing with back pain.

Heavy over-the-shoulder bags. 

Carrying around a large handbag or heavy backpack on one shoulder can affect the curve of your spine and put strain on your neck.

Smoking. 

We all know smoking is bad for your lungs and heart. But did you also know that smoking deprives your body of oxygen, which can lead to weak muscles? Weak muscles can lead to back pain. 


Chiropractic Checkup for Back Pain

If you’re dealing with back pain, it may be time to come in for a visit. We can help you determine the cause of your pain and you may find relief with adjustments and alternative therapies. Let us help you get “back” to your old self!