Causes of Back Pain in Women – Back pain is prevalent among women, causing issues with daily activities, posture and comfort. It may present as a dull ache, sharp stiffness and/or radiating pain, based on the source. The simple back pain women’s experience can vary in source due to the many physical and hormonal changes they will undergo throughout their lives. Identifying the source of back pain is the first step to long-term coping.
Causes of Back Pain in Women – Common Causes of Back Pain in Women
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Hormonal Changes
- Hormonal changes that occur with menstruation, pregnancy or menopause can elicit loosening of the ligaments that facilitate stability in the spine causing pain in the back.
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Physical Stress During and After Pregnancy
- An increase in body weight during pregnancy, along with postural changes, stance posture, and more stretching of the muscles during pregnancy increases the stress placed on the lower back.
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Menstrual Cycle and Endometriosis
- Many women will experience lower back pain during their menstrual cycle, commonly from uterine contractions and conditions such as endometriosis that can often cause pain to then radiate to the lower back as well.
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Sedentary Lifestyle
- Sitting for long periods at work or a lack of physical activity can weaken the core muscles, leading to the back being more susceptible to strain and stiffness.
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Poor posture
- Being in a poor position (e.g., slumped), standing for long periods of time while wearing high-heeled shoes, and sleeping awkwardly can all impact spinal alignment.
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Bone Wasting and Osteoporosis
- Women are at risk for developing osteoporosis at menopause, which is progressive and can lead to fractures, back pain, and other changes.
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Medical Conditions
- Problems with urinary tract infections, kidney stones, gout, or arthritis can sometimes present with back pain as the leading complaint.
Causes of Back Pain in Women – Recommendations for Prevention and Care
- Eat a balanced diet that has plenty of calcium and vitamin D.
- Participate in some form of exercise on a daily basis. This can include yoga, walking, swimming, etc.
- Utilize ergonomic chairs/mattresses.
- Avoid any heavy lifting, or, if heavy lifting cannot be avoided, learn to lift safely.
- If stress arises, manage the stress appropriately because stress will lead to more tension in the muscles of your back.
Causes of Back Pain in Women – Conclusion
Causes of Back Pain in Women – For women, back pain is typically due to a combination of hormonal, lifestyle, and medical factors and most cases will be multifactorial. Simple aches may often be relieved through self-care, exercise, and good posture practices; however, even with minor pain, it is important that patients receive the appropriate evaluation by their medical professional upon persistent pain or acute pain due to other potential conditions.
