Back pain may result from several reasons, including your weight. If a person weighs more than his or her recommended weight, the extra pounds can put excess pressure on the spine. This excess pressure can contribute to the faster degeneration of the spine and its components, ultimately leading to back pain issues. 

Back pain must not be taken lightly.  For many, this condition is a top reason for visits to the hospital. Around 1 in 4 Americans will experience back pain at least once in their lifetime. One question might arise from those affected, “What is the reason behind my back pain?”

Pain and anti-inflammatory medications like Advil for back pain are already being used to relieve the symptoms of this condition. However, the key to long-lasting relief from back pain is by addressing the root of the problem.

Read on to know the answers to some frequently asked questions about back pain and natural alternatives to alleviate its symptoms.

1. Are weight and back issues related? 

Your weight has a direct correlation to your back pain. The more weight a person has, the more weight the spine has to support. Now, this excess weight may place more pressure and tension on the spine. The spine will have to adjust, which may lead to misalignment and, therefore, resulting in back pain. Losing weight can help you eliminate the excess strain in the back, reducing the risk for back pain.

2. Can sleep position cause back issues?

Back pain is a debilitating condition that can affect a person’s quality of life and sleep. The ironic thing is that poor sleeping habits also contribute to increased back pain tendencies in a person. If you experience back pain when you wake up in the morning, then your sleeping position might be the one to blame.

Sleeping on your belly and propping your head too high when you sleep can place excess tension in the neck. These sleeping habits can lead to faster wear and tear in this area of the neck and the rest of the spine, resulting in back pain.

For people who sleep on their backs, using a soft pillow is most advisable. Placing a pillow behind your knees can also significantly lessen the pressure in the lower spine. For people who sleep on their sides, using a firm pillow can alleviate the stress on the neck. It is also advisable to place a pillow between the knees to remove the pressure on the lower back. Sleeping in these positions is also beneficial for blood circulation.

3. Are posture and back issues connected?

Poor posture, constantly slouching or slumping your shoulders, may put extra strain on your back. Good posture is often overlooked, but maintaining a straight back can help prevent back issues from ever happening. When you correct your posture, soon enough, you won’t need Advil for back pain. The first step to correct your posture is by being conscious of how you are standing, sitting, walking, and even working. Make a constant effort to change your posture.

4. Does a sedentary lifestyle result in back pain?

The short answer here is yes. The long answer is that prolonged inactivity can lead to weight gain. Excess weight, as mentioned earlier, can lead to back issues. Hence, a sedentary lifestyle is directly connected to experiencing back pains.

Refusing to exercise, sitting for prolonged periods, or even stretching your back regularly can cause the joints in your spine to stiffen up. Proper exercise and changing to an active lifestyle can also directly benefit your spine, making it stronger and less susceptible to issues like back pains. Exercising a few times a week can ultimately lead to a decrease in the need for Advil for back pain. Before you exercise, make sure that you consult a professional or a chiropractor about what exercises works best for your condition.

5. Can back pain stem from smoking?

Nicotine contains a property that constricts the blood vessels, which results in poor circulation. When there is a delay in blood circulation, necessary nutrients and oxygen might not immediately reach the spine. Poor circulation can mean faster degeneration in the spine's components, leading to back issues and back pain. Quitting smoking can bring several benefits, including relief from back pain.

6. Is stress a contributor to back pain?

Stress impacts the body not only mentally but also physically. Stress can lead to mood changes, migraines, weight changes, hormonal issues, as well as spinal pain. Similar to stress, back pains result from a build-up of different factors. Over time, stress can contribute to issues in the neck and spine. The hormones released in the body due to stress can potentially cause the muscles around the spine to become tense, causing spasms and back pain.

Avoiding stress can possibly help you with reducing the severity of your back pains. Some activities to try to alleviate stress are taking vacations, socializing more, discovering a hobby, and exercising.

7. Are neck and back issues related?

Yes, they are related. Misalignments in the spine can definitely cause back pain. The neck is the part in the spine that is the most vulnerable to misalignment. A misalignment in the neck can create a domino effect of issues, beginning with damaging the nerves in the spinal cord. Now, this may result in musculoskeletal issues, which can cause back pain. Soon enough, more problems can arise from this condition. 

Certain medications, like Advil for back pain, can temporarily ease the pain sensation. However, seeking a long-term solution should be a priority for those with chronic back pain. Fortunately, misalignments in the neck can be easily corrected by upper cervical chiropractors.

Upper cervical chiropractic care is a branch of chiropractic care that focuses on the neck area of the spine. Upper cervical chiropractors use gentle, safe, and accurate techniques to adjusts the neck bones to return to their original positions. 

Now, if you or someone you know are trying to fight back pain, a visit to an upper cervical chiropractic office might be what you’ve needed all along. Learn the benefits of chiropractic care for you today.

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