Ouch! My Back Hurts: Understanding and Dealing with Low Back Pain

Working in Occupational Medicine one of the most common injuries and complaints that I encounter are back pain/injuries. The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke states that nearly everyone at some point in their life will have back pain which will interfere with work, everyday activities as well as any leisure activities. It is also stated that back pain is the second most common neurological ailment in the United States whereas headaches is listed as the first common.

If anyone has ever suffered the agonizing experience of having low back pain, then they know the impact of having their quality of life affected. It us one of the most annoying and agonizing discomforts that just seems to present at the most unfortunate times. Rushing and stressful events may trigger this type of injury secondary to neglect and carelessness. I think we have all been there.

Often there is no one event that may be the cause of the low back, it may arise from many different sources such as lifting especially if done improperly, sitting, standing, or walking for a long period. Other precipitating factors may also contribute to low back pain such as a fall or a trip. Read More For Tips and Prevention of Back Pain