Lower back pain is a huge problem for a large group of people from all ages and backgrounds.
This article and video is designed to provide you with effective solutions to help you get back to being strong and healthy again.
What Causes Back Pain?
Back pain can have many different causes, including:
- Muscle or ligament strain: This is the most common cause of back pain, and it can happen due to overuse, improper lifting, or sudden movements.
- Herniated or bulging disc: The discs in the spine can bulge or rupture, pressing on nearby nerves and causing pain.
- Spinal stenosis: This is a narrowing of the spinal canal, which can put pressure on the spinal cord and nerves.
- Arthritis: Osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis can cause inflammation and pain in the joints of the spine.
- Osteoporosis: This condition can weaken the bones in the spine, making them more susceptible to fractures.
- Skeletal irregularities: Scoliosis or other spinal abnormalities can cause back pain.
- Poor posture: Sitting or standing with poor posture can put strain on the muscles and ligaments in the back.
- Obesity: Being overweight can put additional strain on the back.
- Stress: Emotional stress can cause tension in the muscles of the back, leading to pain.
Treatment for back pain depends on the cause and severity of the pain, and may include rest, exercise, physical therapy, medication, or surgery.
Jeff Cavaliere is a certified strength and conditioning specialist, physical therapist, and former head physical therapist and strength coach for the New York Mets. He is the founder of Athlean-X, a fitness company that offers workout programs, supplements, and coaching services.
The Athlean-X YouTube channel is a popular fitness channel that features Jeff Cavaliere providing workout tips, exercise demonstrations, and fitness advice. The channel has over 13 million subscribers and offers a range of content, including workout routines, nutrition tips, and injury prevention techniques. Jeff Cavaliere is known for his attention to detail in exercise form and his emphasis on functional training to improve athletic performance and overall fitness.
Video
What are the Muscles of the Back?
The muscles of the back are divided into three main groups: the superficial back muscles, the intermediate back muscles, and the deep back muscles. Here are some of the major muscles in each group:
Superficial back muscles:
- Trapezius: This muscle runs from the base of the skull to the mid-back and helps to move the shoulder blades.
- Latissimus dorsi: This muscle runs from the mid-back to the pelvis and helps to move the arms.
- Rhomboids: These muscles run from the shoulder blades to the mid-back and help to retract the shoulder blades.
Intermediate back muscles:
- Serratus posterior: These muscles run along the ribs and help to raise and lower the rib cage during breathing.
- Levator scapulae: These muscles run from the neck to the shoulder blades and help to elevate the shoulder blades.
Deep back muscles:
- Erector spinae: This muscle group runs along the spine and helps to extend the spine.
- Transversospinalis: This muscle group runs diagonally along the spine and helps to rotate the spine.
- Multifidus: These muscles run along the spine and help to stabilize the spine during movement.
These muscles work together to support the spine, maintain posture, and facilitate movement of the arms and shoulders. Strengthening and stretching these muscles can help to prevent and alleviate back pain.
Why is a Strong Back Important?
Having a strong back is important for several reasons:
Posture: A strong back helps to maintain good posture, which can reduce the risk of developing back pain and other musculoskeletal issues. When the back muscles are weak, it can lead to slouching or hunching over, which can strain the muscles and ligaments in the back.
Injury prevention: Strengthening the muscles of the back can help to prevent injuries, such as muscle strains and sprains. A strong back can also help to protect the spine from injury by supporting proper alignment and reducing the risk of disc herniation.
Athletic performance: A strong back is essential for many athletic activities, such as lifting weights, throwing a ball, or performing gymnastics. The back muscles help to stabilize the spine and provide power and endurance for these types of movements.
Daily activities: A strong back is important for performing daily activities, such as carrying groceries, lifting children, or performing household chores. Weak back muscles can make these tasks more difficult and increase the risk of injury.
Overall health: A strong back is important for overall health and well-being. The back muscles are involved in many movements and activities throughout the day, and keeping them strong can help to maintain mobility and function as we age.
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Image Sources
- Sara-Sigmundsdottir-Back-Pain: CrossFit Inc / Depositphotos
- Lower-back-pain: CrossFit / Depositphotos