Our spines are built to move. Poor posture/prolonged positions are one of the most common causes of back pain. Our modern society is much more sedentary than previous generations, and the prevalence of back pain is increasing.

Back pain from poor posture is frequently associated with prolonged activities such as sitting and standing. Maintaining a posture can irritate the tissues in your body, resulting in pain, dysfunction, and, in the long run, inflammation or injury.

A back sprain occurs when the ligaments in your spine are overstretched, whereas a back strain occurs when your back muscles are overstretched. These injuries are frequently associated with a lifting injury or an accident (i.e., motor vehicle accident, slip, or fall).

Discs are specialized tissues that connect two vertebrae (i.e., spine bones). The discs help direct the movement of our spines, absorb forces, and protect the bones from injury.

Bending and twisting movements are particularly dangerous to the discs, especially when lifting in these positions. The disc is also vulnerable to prolonged sitting or awkward task postures.

Injury to the discs can cause severe back pain and lead to a more serious condition known as radiculopathy (nerve pain) in your thigh, leg, or foot (aka sciatica).

The good news is that physiotherapy at our Clayton, Cloverdale, Surrey & Langley, BC clinic can help you if you are suffering from back pain caused by disc problems.

Another common cause of back pain is degenerative disc disease, which is most commonly associated with aging. Degenerative changes can also be caused by smoking, certain medications, and injury.

Pain from degenerative disc disease frequently manifests as changes in mobility and is commonly felt when initiating movement after a prolonged position (i.e., sitting, standing, or lying).

People frequently describe a dull, painful ache in the lower back that worsens with prolonged standing or walking.