Back pain affects millions of people around the world. Some doctors estimate that three out of every four people will experience back problems in their lifetime. Back pain can be caused by many different things: From trauma and injuries to inappropriate bending and lifting and even disease. Although back pain is common, hundreds of hours of worktime and productivity are lost from it each year. And while some people suffering it for a few short months before it disappears never to be felt again, others will feel the pain daily for their entire lifetime.

What Causes Back Pain?

If we discount disease, and severe trauma, most back pain comes from improper back care. Sitting incorrectly or lifting wrong can put strain on the back and cause pain.

The muscles of our trunk are where we get our strength to stand and move. They exert pressure that forces the bones to move. The muscles are the locomotive mechanisms that are constantly interrupted by the actions we take and the gravity and influence of the weight that affects us from the earth. When we perform asymmetrical (that is -- equal on both sides) actions, the muscles derive a degree of strength from the spinal column and the other muscles. The trunk and ribs also support these muscles to a degree.

But the muscles must be free to move independently, enabling us to perform asymmetrical (unequal on both sides) actions such as walking, swimming, running and turning. During each movement, symmetrical or asymmetrical, the muscles will act by contracting. This means the muscles shrink, expend, tighten and narrow. During unequal actions, such as lifting incorrectly, we often force a small group of muscles to perform above its limits causing strain. The muscles start to absorb shock then will release pressure or tension.

Nerves get into the act when we over extend the muscles creating pain and letting us know that we have done something wrong. Often we pay with pain or even a trip to the emergency room.

How Can We Avoid Back Pain?

Take care when lifting heavy objects. Stand straight with both feet flat on the floor. Bend at the knees not the hip and lift with your legs.

Practice good posture when sitting and standing. Don't slouch.

With proper care perhaps you can be one of the one in four who will not have back pain in your lifetime.