5 Bad Habits That Are Causing Your Back Pain

25 Aug 5 Bad Habits That Are Causing Your Back Pain

Back pain is a common problem and it can be difficult to pinpoint its origin. Though there can be many culprits to your aching back, there are some easy fixes that are often to blame. Changing up just a few of your daily rituals could relieve your pain.

Weak Core Muscles
When your core muscles are weak, your back is unsupported. Your core encompasses your abdominal, back, side, pelvic, and buttock muscles. All of these muscles support your spine. If these muscles are weak, other muscles will compensate, which can lead to poor posture and back pain.

Hunching Over
It’s no secret that poor posture leads to back pain. But did you realize how often you are hunched over? Slouching tends to happen most when you are in front of a screen. The average person spends nine hours a day hunched over in front of a computer. Make sure you pay attention to your posture and occasionally stretch out your neck to avoid any lingering effects of hunching over.

Too Much Sitting
Sitting puts pressure on your spine, more so than walking or standing. Take breaks from sitting, and occasionally stand up to relieve some of that pressure to your back and get your blood flowing.

No Arch Support
It’s true that high heels can cause back pain, but did you know that flat shoes can do that same? Any shoe without arch support—i.e. flip-flops, sandals, sneakers, etc.—can be harmful to your back. You don’t need to throw out unsupportive shoes all together but try mixing it up and alternating between different styles regularly.

Sleeping on Your Stomach
Lower back pain is common for stomach sleepers. Sleeping on your belly puts pressure on joints and muscles in your lower back and hips. Try switching up your sleeping positions or sleep with a pillow under your hips to lessen the stress that can be put on them.