5 Causes of Back Pain That Will Surprise You – Levitate Exercise Physiology
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5 Causes of Back Pain That Will Surprise You

by Patrick Jonczyk

Back pain is a prevalent and often debilitating condition that affects millions of people worldwide. While traditional approaches to understanding and treating back pain have primarily focused on physical factors, it is important to recognise that biological, psychological, and social factors all play crucial roles in the development and experience of back pain. Refer below for 5 surprising causes of back pain that you may not have been aware of.

1. Biological Factors: Biological factors refer to the physical aspects of back pain, including anatomical structures, genetics, and medical conditions. Understanding the biomechanics of the spine, muscle imbalances, and the impact of injuries or diseases is crucial. Recognising how these factors contribute to back pain lays the foundation for a holistic approach to treatment.

Biological Interventions:

  • Exercise therapy to address muscle imbalances and improve mobility.
  • Medications for pain management and inflammation.
  • Surgical interventions for structural issues when necessary.

2. Psychological Factors: Stress, anxiety, depression, and other emotional states can exacerbate or even trigger back pain. Chronic pain, in turn, can contribute to the development of psychological issues, creating a complex interplay between the mind and the body. Addressing the psychological aspects of back pain is essential for effective management and recovery.

Psychological Interventions:

  • Cognitive-behavioral therapy to address negative thought patterns and coping mechanisms.
  • Mindfulness and relaxation techniques to manage stress and anxiety.
  • Biofeedback to enhance awareness and control of physiological responses.

3. Social Factors: Job-related stress, socioeconomic status, family dynamics, and cultural influences can impact an individual's experience of pain. A supportive social environment can positively influence recovery, while negative social factors may contribute to the persistence of back pain. Exploring and addressing these social factors is integral to a comprehensive treatment plan.

Social Interventions:

  • Workplace adjustments to accommodate physical limitations.
  • Support groups and community resources to foster a sense of belonging.
  • Education and awareness programs to reduce societal stigma related to back pain.

4. Motor Control Dysfunction: Motor control refers to the coordinated activity of muscles and the nervous system to produce purposeful movements. Dysfunction in motor control can result from various factors, including injury, poor posture, muscle imbalances, neurological conditions, or a lack of proper neuromuscular coordination. 

Here are some ways in which motor control dysfunction may contribute to back pain:

  1. Muscle Imbalances: When certain muscles become overactive or tight, while others become weak or inhibited, it can affect the alignment and stability of the spine, leading to back pain.

  2. Poor Posture: Incorrect movement patterns and poor posture can result from motor control dysfunction. For example, if someone has difficulty maintaining a neutral spine during activities like sitting, standing, or lifting, it can contribute to strain on the back muscles and spinal structures.

  3. Joint Instability: When the muscles responsible for supporting the spine are not functioning optimally, it can lead to joint instability and increased stress on the spine, potentially causing pain.

  4. Compensatory Movements: Individuals may unconsciously adopt compensatory movements to avoid pain or discomfort. These compensations can lead to abnormal loading on certain areas of the spine, contributing to pain and potential injury.

5. Inactivity: Lack of physical activity or prolonged periods of inactivity can weaken the muscles that support the spine, making the back more susceptible to pain and injury.

Here are ways inactivity can be linked to back pain:

  1. Muscle Weakness: Inactivity can lead to the weakening of the muscles that provide support and stability to the spine. 

  2. Reduced Flexibility: Lack of movement can lead to decreased flexibility in the muscles and joints. Limited flexibility can contribute to stiffness and tension in the back, making it more prone to injury and pain.

  3. Weight Gain: Sedentary behaviour is often associated with weight gain and obesity. Excess body weight puts additional stress on the spine, especially the lower back. This increased load can contribute to the development or exacerbation of back pain.

  4. Impaired Circulation: Sitting for prolonged periods can lead to poor circulation, reducing the delivery of nutrients and oxygen to the spinal discs and muscles. This can contribute to disc degeneration and muscle stiffness, leading to back pain.

  5. Joint Stiffness: Lack of movement can result in joint stiffness, particularly in the spine. Stiff joints are more susceptible to injury and can contribute to discomfort and pain.

  6. Poor Posture: Inactivity often goes hand in hand with poor posture. Prolonged sitting or standing in awkward positions can lead to misalignment of the spine, causing strain and contributing to back pain.

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