Obesity
Obesity could be the Cause of Back Pain
If you have frequent episodes of back pain, the cause could be obesity. Many people who are overweight or obese often complain of back pain. Excess weight has also been associated with joint pain, muscle strain, fatigue and shortness of breath. This can lead to inactivity and lack of exercise which is again bad for your back.
People who are obese feel more disabled and unable to carry out their normal functions compared to those with other chronic conditions.
Every extra pound you carry adds more stress to the muscles and ligaments of the back. This can lead to uneven forces on the spine causing it to develop an abnormal curvature. The lower back in particular experiences a lot of strain as a large and heavy abdomen pulls the pelvis forward.
If you are obese, you have an increased risk of developing painful conditions such as sciatica or herniated disc. Increased pressure on the intervertebral discs can result in rupture, herniation or bulging of the disc which can compress or pinch nerves leading to back pain.
Strain on the vertebral joints due to excess weight can wear out the cartilage lining the bones. This can lead to pain and inflammation, also called arthritis.
Am I Obese?
To determine if you are overweight, your basal metabolic index (BMI) is determined. This is a value that considers both your weight and height. A person with a BMI above 25 and below 29.9 is considered overweight, while a BMI over 30 is considered obese. The location where you carry your weight is also evaluated. Excess weight in the midsection increases the risk of developing back pain and other obesity-related health problems.
Weight Loss
If you are overweight or obese, a specific diet and exercise program is designed to achieve your weight loss goals. The program takes into consideration your general health and back pain that you may be experiencing. A combination of therapies may be recommended for the best results. Losing weight has been shown to alleviate back pain and prevent future episodes. It can also ease recovery after back surgery.
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