Stress Can Be a Catalyst for New Back Pain

DEAR DOCTORS: While doing the dishes, I experienced a sudden muscle spasm in my lower back. Initially, I thought it might be due to bending over, but my mother believes it’s because of all the stress we’re under. Our home has been severely affected by smoke damage following the recent wildfires in Los Angeles. Is it possible for stress to trigger back pain?

DEAR READER: We begin with an issue many people face—back pain—which is among the most frequent health concerns in the U.S. Statistics reveal that nearly 60% of individuals aged 18 and above have encountered back pain within the last three months. This high rate of occurrence can be attributed largely to the intricate and fragile nature of spinal components. These elements collectively create a slim structure responsible for numerous—and sometimes contradictory—tasks.

The backbone needs to be robust enough to bear the load of the upper torso but flexible enough to permit extensive movements like extending, bending, and twisting. Its elements should also be lightweight not to overburden the surrounding muscles while being sturdy enough to safeguard the spinal cord along with associated nerves. Taking into account factors such as an individual’s mass, stature, overall wellness, chronological age, exercise habits, daily exertions, ailments, and hereditary traits, it comes as little surprise that almost everybody encounters at least one instance of backache throughout their life span.

Concerning the discomfort in your lower back, referred to as the lumbar area, both you and your mother might be right. This type of pain could stem from physical exertion and can likewise be exacerbated or affected by stress.

While doing dishwashing, you lean forward from your waist and continuously reach and lift. This activity involves various movements like twisting, pulling, and pushing, which may put stress on the muscles and ligaments supporting your lower back. Additionally, leaning at an angle could negatively impact the five spinal disks in the lumbar area designed to cushion the vertebrae. Such postural issues might lead to discomfort or potential injuries.

Stress can likewise have an impact. Studies have confirmed that experiencing stress can affect sleep patterns, emotional well-being, psychological health, regulation of blood glucose levels, production of cortisol, and body weight.

Prolonged stress is now recognized as a factor that makes individuals more vulnerable to back injuries and discomfort. Chronic stress triggers various bodily reactions that result in muscle tightness, heightened susceptibility to muscle twitches, and greater pain perception, thereby elevating the likelihood of sustaining a back injury.

When experiencing localized lower back pain for the first time, these symptoms might persist for only a short period—just a couple of days—or they could require several weeks to subside completely. Common treatments typically involve taking over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to alleviate discomfort. Additionally, applying heat through methods like using a heating pad or soaking in a warm bath can help relax tense muscles and improve blood flow to the affected region.

When you return to your usual routines, be particularly mindful of your posture and alignment. Should the discomfort continue or intensify, consult your healthcare provider. They might prescribe medication for pain and inflammation and could also propose undergoing physical therapy. Universal Features Syndicate

Provided by Syndigate Media Inc. ( Syndigate.info ).