1.Weak muscles, caused by insuffient exercise, are a major cause of back pain. The body is a unit-the various muscles act together. The lower torso is carried by the abdominals as well as the lower back muscles. The upper torso is carried by the pectorals or chest muscles, as well as the upper back muscles (trapezius and lats). So any exercise plan for back pain need to strengthen and stretch not only the major back muscles, like the lats and traps but also muscles in the front of the body, particularly the abdominal muscles. The abdominal muscles (often called the core muscles) help to support the spine and upper body. The abdominal muscles comprise the internal and external obliques down the side of your waist, and the six-pack muscles or the rectus abdominus, that run down the middle of your abdomen.

2.Poor range of movement in the back muscles or lack of flexibility. This is also caused by lack of regular exercise. If you perform a sudden movement outside of your normal range of motion you can strain your muscles. For example, if you twist suddenly and your lower back muscles are inflexible, you are likely to strain these muscles. You need to stretch the muscles of the back regularly.

3.Tight muscles in the legs, chest and shoulders. Because the body is a unit, you need to stretch connected muscles. The hamstring muscles and gluteal muscles, if tight, can cause rounding of the lower back, and which will cause back pain. Stiff shoulder muscles will likely cause neck and upper back pain. Tight chest muscles pull on the shoulder and will also likely cause neck and shoulder pain.

4.Poor or incorrect posture. Most of us sit for long periods, whether at work, watching TV or driving a car. Incorrect posture while walking or standing can cause backache. eg rounded shoulders can cause upper back pain. The best way to improve posture is exercise to strengthens the postural muscles.

5.Moving your body incorrectly. A common way of pulling and straining back muscles is whilst picking up objects. I’ve done that a few times, as I’m sure most of us have. When picking up objects, bend your legs and let the legs take the weight, not the back. Everyday actions like getting into and out of a car or sitting down in a chair are also important to be aware of. Twisting your body when you get into or out of a car can strain your back.

6.Being overweight. This puts a lot of strain on the back. If you are overweight you are likely to also be less flexible, with a smaller range of motion. This will mean that sudden movements will be more likely to cause muscle strains.

Tags: back pain, causes of back pain, exercise, fitness, health, Health and Well Being, helath