Coach Presents: Who Gets Back Pain? How common is it?

Back pain has become a major issue for many people. It has caused time away from work, and back pain has caused people to miss important family events. Back pain has also been linked to depression. With all these problems associated with back pain it’s important to know the facts about who is most likely to experience back pain and how common it really is. Because in reality you will most likely experience some sort of back pain in your life. In fact as we age it becomes increasingly common, some studies suggest as many as 8 in 10 people will suffer the effects.

Who Gets Back Pain?

The reality is that anyone can have back pain, regardless of sex, age, race or many other factors, back pain is just a fact for many people. However below are some major factors attributing to back pain.

• Being in less than great physical condition. Back pain is more common in people who are not physically fit. It’s important that we take care of our bodies.
• Our jobs. In obvious cases where you have to lift, or pull using your back, you may get back pain. However, often times if you work at a desk all day and not using a lumbar support, you may also get back pain.
• A major cause of back pain is smoking. Studies have shown that smokes heal slower than non-smokers, leading to back pain that lasts longer.
• Aging is a major factor. Back pain is more common the older we get. You may first have back pain as young as in your 20’s
• Having our bodies carry excess weight. A poor diet can make you gain weight and this excess weight will cause stress on the back and cause you pain.
• There can be a heredity component. Some causes of back pain, such as arthritis that affects the spine, can be genetic.

As you can see back pain is something that will or has effected nearly all of us. The easiest things you can do to prevent back pain are:

• Exercise often and keep your body healthy.
• Watch your weight and try to have a healthy diet.
• Practice great posture. AT your desk sit up straight, shoulders back, and take breaks to walk around the office.

~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