Risk Factors for Back Pain

It is estimated that 80% of all Americans will experience back pain in their lives. This means that it is likely you will suffer from back pain eventually. There are several risk factors that can contribute to the frequency and intensity back pain episodes. By being aware of them, you can modify your behavior to reduce your risk of suffering from back pain.

The most common age to first experience back pain is between 30 and 40. At this time the body is beginning to lose its flexibility. Back pain becomes more common with age, as the number of conditions that can cause back pain increase. Musculoskeletal strains are more common with younger people, while arthritis and degenerative disc disease tend to be leading causes of back pain among seniors.

People who live sedentary lifestyles are more likely to experience back pain than those who engage in regular activity. Those with a higher level of physical fitness generally have stronger muscles in the back, legs and abdomen, all of which help support the back. The exception to this is the so-called "Weekend Warriors", people who engage in vigorous activity only periodically, with little exercise in between. They are at the greatest risk of injuring themselves during their periods of exertion. Those who are least likely to suffer from back pain are those who engage in a moderate level of activity on a regular basis.

Perhaps the most significant risk factor is obesity. The strain of carrying excess weight can contribute greatly to back pain. Regular exercise and a balanced diet can help control obesity, and reduce the frequency of back pain episodes.

Having a job that requires heavy lifting, particularly while twisting or vibrating the spine, can lead to injury and back pain. It is important that if your job involves heavy lifting, pushing or pulling, you should make the effort to use proper techniques in order to protect your back.

Bend your knees and lift with your legs, keeping your back straight. Before starting your day, consider doing a series of stretching and strengthening exercises to loosen your back muscles and help prepare them for the work ahead.

A desk job may also lead to back pain, particularly if you sit all day in an uncomfortable chair or have bad posture. Try to sit straight with your feet firmly planted on the ground. Make sure your computer monitor is at the correct height, which is usually recommended to be that the top on the monitor is two inches above your eye level. Stretching activities done throughout the day can help to keep your back loose.

Although smoking may not directly cause back pain, it increases your risk of developing low back pain sciatica. Smoking may lead to pain by blocking your body's ability to deliver nutrients to the discs of the lower back.