15 Jan Back Pain: Why You Have It & What to Do About It
Back pain: it’s common, it can ruin your day, and it can be difficult to get rid of. So what’s the deal? Why do so many people deal with back pain every day and what can you do about it? We share some common causes of back pain, as well as what you can do to make your back feel better if it’s acting up.
Common Causes: There are many different reasons why you could experience back pain. You may have a medical condition that affects your spine or an injury that strained a muscle. These are just some general reasons you can experience back pain.
Injury: Car, work, and sports-related accidents are all different ways you can end up with an injury to your back. You can injure the muscle as well as your spine, depending on the nature of your injury.
Carrying Extra Weight: Many people carry extra weight around their midsection; if your core muscles are also weak, your back can pick up the slack and end up sore.
Medical Condition: Various medical conditions can affect your spine, causing pain. Arthritis, degenerative disc disease, and others can affect your spinal health and result in back pain.
What You Can Do About It: Although your back pain may be new or chronic, there are ways you can improve how you move and feel.
Keep Moving: ‘Bed rest’ isn’t a standard treatment for back pain anymore; in fact, moving is one way you can improve how your body functions and feels. This doesn’t mean you should go out and play contact sports if you have severe back pain: it does mean that you shouldn’t give up moving and lie in bed all day.
Lose Some Weight: Losing weight isn’t about looking better in your jeans. You can reduce stress on your lower back by losing weight and reducing the strain on those muscles. Focus on small, sustainable changes in diet and an exercise program you can handle – like a daily walk. 
Ice or Heat: A general rule of thumb is that ice is for acute (new) injury and heat is for loosening tense muscles. You can also try alternating ice and heat once you’re out of the immediate acute phase of an injury like a back strain. Sometimes, moist heat like a bath or shower can help loosen tight muscles and restore movement.
Physical Therapy: One of the best things you can do for your back is to visit a Physical Therapist. This is because a Physical Therapist is uniquely positioned to evaluate your spine, muscles, and movement. Your PT will work with you to improve movement, mobility, and reduce pain and discomfort through a blend of manual (hands on) therapy and exercise. With your PT’s guidance, you’ll use the power of your own body to work toward recovery. You’ll also learn the ‘why’ behind your pain, as well as how to prevent future injury.
If you’re tired of having a ‘bad’ back, we’re always here to help you get a ‘better’ back. At Body One Physical Therapy, we’re locally-owned and operated and have three locations serving Central Indianapolis: North Indy/Carmel, Fishers, and Zionsville. Our team of caring, expert Physical Therapists works with clients of all ages and activity levels and we’d love to add you to our list of happy patients. Don’t struggle with pain alone, get the best PT team in Indy working with you! Call or click today and get on your way to being a better YOU!
