What you need to know about back pain

If you’re experiencing back pain, you’re not alone. In fact, it’s one of the most common medical problems in the U.S.¹ Back pain is different for everyone, but knowing how to prevent it — and when it’s time to call a doctor — can help you protect your health and stay feeling your best.

• Age. Back pain is more common with age, especially after you turn 45. 
• Lack of exercise. Weak back and stomach muscles often aren’t strong enough to properly support the spine.
• Weight gain. Excess body weight puts extra stress on your back and joints.
• Job-related risks. Some physical jobs that require heavy lifting, twisting, or pulling make you more likely to injure your back. Desk jobs can also cause problems if you have poor posture or use a chair that doesn’t offer enough support.
• Family history. Certain genetic problems, such as degenerative disc conditions, can cause back pain.

• Work out. Low-impact exercises that don’t strain your back, like walking, yoga, and swimming, help increase your strength and endurance and keep your back muscles strong.
• Eat a healthy diet. Foods rich in calcium and vitamin D help strengthen your spine. A healthy diet also helps keep weight in check.
• Practice healthy back habits. Good posture reduces the stress on your back muscles, so try to stand and sit up straight. Avoid lifting heavy objects, but if you must, let your leg muscles do the work and bend at the knees.
• Quit smoking. Smokers are nearly three times as likely to suffer from back pain as non-smokers.² That’s because smoking prevents blood from flowing normally to bones and tissues, which can damage the spine. Smoking also makes it harder for your body to heal naturally.

• Lasts longer than a few weeks.
• Starts after an injury, like a fall or blow to your back.
• Accompanies a fever, numbness and tingling, unintended weight loss, or problems going to the bathroom.
• Spreads down to your legs.