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Say Bye-Bye to Back Pain


What Increases the Risk of Back Pain?

Back pain becomes more common with age, although many 18- to 24-year-olds report back pain, as do people age 55 and older. Other back pain risk factors include:
  • Fitness Level
    Back pain is more common among people who are not physically fit. Weak back and abdominal muscles may not properly support the spine.
  • Diet
    A diet high in calories and fat, combined with an inactive lifestyle, can lead to obesity, which puts stress on the back.
  • Heredity
    Some causes of back pain, including disc disease, may have a genetic component.
  • Other Diseases
    Many diseases such as various forms of arthritis can cause or contribute to back pain.




As a reminder, always consult your doctor for medical advice and treatment before starting any program.

By Debra Fulghum Bruce, PhD

SOURCES: American Academy of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation: "100 Million Americans Live with Aching Backs, but Most Don't Seek Medical Help." WebMD Medical Reference: "What are the Causes of Back Pain." WebMD Public Information from the U.S. National Institutes of Health: "Low Back Pain Risk Factors." WebMD Medical Reference in Collaboration with the Cleveland Clinic: "Pain Management: Sciatica." WebMD Medical Reference: "What Kind of Back Problem do You Have?" WebMD Medical Reference: "Understanding Back Pain: Treatment." WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise: "Back Pain During Pregnancy." WebMD Medical Reference from eMedicineHealth: "Can You Prevent Back Pain?" WebMD Public Information from the U.S. National Institutes of Health: "Time to See a Doctor?" WebMD Public Information from the U.S. National Institutes of Health: "Acute Back Pain, Chronic Back Pain."