Much of the population suffers from back problems eventually. Doesn't it makes sense to put yourself into the 20 percent who don't experience these problems?
Eighty percent of Americans suffer from back pain at some point in their lives. The reasons for this vary. Age contributes as bone strength and muscle elasticity and tone tend to decrease. Moving heavy objects the wrong way, sudden movements, weak core musculature, particularly the abdominals and lower back can also contribute to back problems. The pain can be the result of strain or compression of a disk which can exert pressure on any of the more than 50 nerve roots running through the spine.
Pain may also originate from degenerative conditions such as arthritis or disc disease, osteoporosis or other bone diseases, viral infections, irritation to joints and discs, or congenital abnormalities in the spine. Obesity, smoking, weight gain during pregnancy, stress and poor sleeping position also may contribute to low back pain. Scar tissue from previous back injuries, which is not as strong or flexible, can be a catalyst to back injuries also.
Americans spend at least $50 billion each year on low back pain, the most common cause of job-related disability and a leading contributor to missed work. Back pain is the second most common neurological ailment in the United States — only headache is more common.
As mentioned above almost every one will experience back pain at some point in his life. This generally occurs between the ages of 30 and 50 and affects males and females alike. Aging certainly plays a role as does sedentary living. Occasionally over-training can produce back pain as well.
Interestingly pre-teens and teens have experienced back pains due to backpack overload, which can cause muscle fatigue and strain. It was estimated that more than 13,260 injuries related to backpacks were treated at doctors’ offices, clinics, and emergency rooms in the year 2000. Preventive measures include using proper techniques when lifting heavy backpacks (bending knees not the back), going to lockers between classes or using roller type backpacks. Remember back injuries are the second leading cause of job-related disability and a leading contributor to missed work. Even if your back feels fine, if you are not mindful of good posture, proper movement and being in shape, back injuries are probable.
Without overemphasizing the importance of taking care of your back (after all it is a part of the body) if you have ever experienced back pain or problems for any length of time you will understand the significance of conditioning, proper posture (spinal alignment) and proper movement. Back problems can greatly limit your ability to function normally. Performing everyday tasks becomes extremely painful or altogether un-doable.
A comprehensive conditioning program should include specific movements geared toward core conditioning. If you are like most people you don’t have much time to spend lying on your back involuntarily.
"A healthless man is a hapless man" -Chris Christian-
Source: National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke
