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Could Your Holiday Habits Be to Blame for Your Back Pain?
From physical discomfort and mobility challenges to sleep problems and low moods, back pain complications can wreak havoc on your well-being. The holidays are no exception.
While back pain can happen at any time of year, the holidays could actually make you more vulnerable to the irritating symptoms — depending on your habits.
Dr. Nicholas Perenich and his team at Spine Institute of Florida in Dade City and Spring Hill offer a variety of back pain treatments, including conservative care and complex surgeries.
We put the following information together to up your odds of a comfortable, back pain-free season.
Back pain basics
Back pain happens when you strain, damage, or otherwise injure tissues in your back or spine. Back pain commonly stems from inflammatory conditions, like rheumatoid arthritis or lupus, or from conditions that compress your nerves, such as disc herniation and sciatica.
Gradual back pain often derives from osteoarthritis, due to the wear-and-tear of one or more joints over time. You can also develop idiopathic back pain, meaning the cause remains unknown.
Back pain that lasts or keeps flaring up for several months or more is considered chronic. About 8% of Americans develop chronic back pain at some point.
Holiday activities that strain your back
Anything that puts pressure on your back or spine, forces your spine into an awkward position, or compresses nerves in your back can lead to back pain.
Holiday habits that may cause these issues include:
- Awkwardly bending or reaching while decorating
- Engaging in winter sports, especially with poor form or equipment
- Exercising in the cold without a warmup
- Poorly lifting heavy packages
- Poor posture when you’re relaxing
- Long periods of sitting and less exercise
- Running or walking on slippery surfaces
Emotional stress through the holidays may also contribute to back pain by causing inflammation, muscle tension, or muscle spasms. A review of studies showed that the more stress someone experiences, the more likely they are to develop chronic low back pain.
What to do about back pain
If you’re experiencing sudden, severe, or ongoing back pain, our team can develop a customized treatment plan. Depending on your symptoms and overall health, your program may include rest, activity changes, a brace, or oral or injected medication. If your symptoms are severe or don’t respond to conservative care, we may recommend surgery.
We can also guide you through lifestyle habits that prevent back pain, such as improved posture and lifting techniques, managing stress, and eating an anti-inflammatory diet.
To learn more about back pain causes or get started with personalized support, call Spine Institute of Florida or schedule an appointment through our website today.