Understanding back pain: causes, prevention and osteopathic treatment

This article is also disponible en français – Back pain… We’ve all had to deal with it at one time or another, haven’t we? Whether it’s mild discomfort or sharp, intense pain, it can really ruin your day and affect your overall well-being. In this article, we break down the causes of back pain, how to prevent it and how osteopathy can help you manage and relieve the discomfort.

This is not an in-depth analysis of the medical world of back pain, but rather a simple, easy-to-understand guide. It aims to give you a general idea of what back pain is, why it can occur and what you can do about it.

Quick links :

• Types of back pain
• Causes of back pain
• Prevent back pain

What is back pain?

Back pain is essentially discomfort anywhere between the neck and the lower back. They can be short-lived (acute) or last for months (chronic). They can come on suddenly due to injury, or develop slowly as a result of repeated stress or other health problems.

Source: World Health Organization and Statistics Canada

In 2020, low back pain (LBP) affected 619 million people worldwide, and it is estimated that this number will rise to 843 million by 2050, largely due to demographic expansion and an ageing population. LDs are the leading cause of disability worldwide, and the condition for which the greatest number of people could benefit from rehabilitation. LDs can occur at any age, and most people will experience them at least once in their lives. Around 90% of cases are non-specific LD. In Canada, back problems are among the most common chronic conditions: four out of five adults will experience at least one episode of back pain in their lifetime.

Common causes of back pain

Back pain can have several origins, such as :

• Muscle and ligament strains
  Muscle and ligament strains are common and can result from: improper lifting of heavy loads, abrupt movements, overexertion, poor posture or an inadequate sitting/standing position, which can stress the spine and muscles over time.
  
• Herniated discs
  This occurs when an intervertebral disc becomes displaced and compresses the nerves, causing pain, especially in the lower back.
  
• Arthritis
  Osteoarthritis of the spine can cause stiffness and pain as joint cartilage deteriorates.
  
• Spinal stenosis (narrowing of the spinal canal)
  When the spinal canal narrows, it can exert pressure on the nerves, causing pain, particularly in the elderly.
  
• Lifestyle factors
  Being overweight, smoking, not exercising or being stressed can aggravate back pain.
  
• Underlying medical conditions
  Certain conditions, such as scoliosis, osteoporosis or infections, can also cause back pain.

Symptoms of back pain

Back pain can vary depending on the cause, but common symptoms include:

• Muscle pain or stiffness
• Sharp or stabbing pain
• Pain radiating down the legs
• Difficulty getting around
• Pain aggravated by bending over or lifting objects

If your pain is accompanied by numbness, weakness or difficulty controlling your bladder or bowels, consult a professional promptly-it could be more serious.

Tips to prevent back pain

Osteopathy can help treat your back pain, but it’s best to prevent it in the first place. Here are a few tips:

Photo credits WikiHow

1. Adopt good posture

Keep your shoulders back and your spine straight when sitting or standing. Use an ergonomic chair at the office.

2. Exercise regularly

Choose activities that strengthen your back and core, such as yoga, Pilates, walking or swimming. And don’t forget to stretch to maintain your flexibility.

3. Lift heavy weights correctly

Bend your knees, not your back, when lifting heavy loads. Avoid turning your body when lifting.

4. Maintain a healthy weight

Extra weight can overload the spine, so a balanced diet and regular activity can help.

5. Stay active

Sitting too long? Stand up, stretch or take short walks to keep your back moving.

6. Invest in a good mattress

A mattress that supports your spine can make all the difference in preventing back pain. Some people find it helpful to use a cushion under the knees when sleeping on their back, or between the knees when sleeping on their side.

When should you consult a professional?

If your back pain lasts more than a few weeks or seriously disrupts your daily activities, it’s time to consult a professional.

In December 2024, I fell down the stairs at home. I consulted a doctor and had X-rays taken. The result? Nothing broken, but contusions to the spine on three lumbar vertebrae. I consulted Marie-Claude urgently. She first referred me to a fellow physiotherapist before seeing me. She then treated me, and I healed, really knowing what I could and couldn’t do.

— Catherine Mayer, customer

Look out for the following 3 signs:

• Pain radiating to one or both legs
• Weakness, numbness or tingling
• Difficulty controlling the bladder or bowels

Osteopathy can be an excellent option in your rehabilitation plan, offering personalized care to manage pain and promote recovery.

Sources:

• https://www.canada.ca/fr/emploi-developpement-social/services/sante-securite/rapports/dos.html
• https:// www.who.int/fr/health-topics
• https://www.statcan.gc.ca/
  

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