Coach Presents: 5 Common Causes on Your Back Pain and Quick Correction

Back pain is a very serious…and very common problem. In fact, back pain sends more people for doctor visits any other ailment, other than the common cold. Studies have shown that it’s the third most common cause of surgery!

There are numerous causes of back pain, which also means there can be numerous possible solutions to your pain. Here are some common causes to your pain, and some easy solutions.

Cause #1: You’re a Desk Jockey-You are spending your day at your desk in front of a computer screen, slouched over, hovering over your key board, slogging through the hours. According to numerous studies, sitting puts 40% more pressure on your spine than standing does. Sitting with proper posture is difficult on long days, and on your busy days breaks to take a walk are sometimes not an option. However these habits are important to alleviate some of your back pain.

Solution #1: It is suggested that sitting at a 135-degree angle can reduce the compression in your spine. Try to have an office chair that supports the curve of your spine, or gain access to a lumbar support. Your lower back needs to be supported, and your head should be straight when you are looking at your computer screen.

Cause #2: You are not in good physical shape-This is a difficult one as many people can’t find the time during their days to get to the gym. If you are having back pain, getting the proper exercise becomes even more difficult as studies have shown that 40% of people become less active after back pain strikes.

Solution #2: The strange thing is that even with back pain, most people would benefit from more exercise. Many lower back pain problems stem from stiffness in glutes and hamstrings. Try to stretch regularly, and take regular walks.

Cause #3: Your commute to work is killing your back-This is similar to your hunched over stance at your desk. Hovering over your steering wheel can be just as bad on your back. There are plenty of problems with bad sitting posture including low energy levels and it can even make you appear heavier and frumpier, not to mention the back problems poor posture causes.

Solution #3: Work to sit up tall and straight while on your commute. Work on a 90 degree angle, where your legs are not extended too far out in front of you. You’ll notice just sitting taller will help you start to mentally feel better, and start to alleviate some of that shoulder pain from being rounded most of your day.

We all go through it, the aches and pains at work from being jammed behind a desk. But a few simple changes to our daily routine will help you feel better not only physically, but mentally as well.

~Sean Hogan has coached hockey at the international and collegiate levels for over ten years. He has spoken at numerous events about culture building, goal setting and healthy lifestyles. He holds a Master’s of Science Degree in Recreation and Sports Science with an emphasis on Coaching Education from OHIO University