OVERVIEW:
Low back pain can affect the back anywhere below the ribs and above the legs. The lower back is the connection between the upper and lower body, and it bears most of the body’s weight. Because of these roles, it is easily injured when you lift, reach, or twist.
CAUSES:
Low back pain is often caused by overuse, strain, or injury. For instance, people often hurt their backs playing sports or working in the yard, being jolted in a car accident, or lifting something too heavy.
Aging plays a part too. Your bones and muscles tend to lose strength as you age, which increases your risk of injury. The spongy discs between the bones of the spine (vertebrae) may suffer from wear and tear and no longer provide enough cushion between the bones. A disc that bulges or breaks open (herniated disc)can press on nerves, causing back pain.
PREVENTION:
Exercise to keep your back healthy and strong. Exercise programs that include aerobic conditioning and strengthening exercises can help reduce the recurrence of low back pain. Protect your sitting, standing, and sleeping posture. Manage stress, have a healthy diet and weight, and quit smoking if your a smoker.
