What to Do About Spine Pain

Lower spine pain is one of the most common reasons people seek medical attention, as back pain can negatively impact your everyday movements. Sitting, standing, and any movement at all can feel like agony when you’re experiencing thoracic spine pain, but there are ways to find relief. Understanding what to do about spine pain starts with exploring the causes; read on to learn more. 

Why Do I Have Lower Spine Pain? 

There are many different causes for lower spine pain, ranging from injury to disease. Spine pain is most commonly brought on by: 

• Strain: caused by excessive activity, a torn or stretched muscle can result in stiffness and pain. 
• Disc injury: caused by twisting or heavy lifting, a disc injury can last much longer than a strain, and often requires professional attention.
• Sciatica: caused by a disc pressing on the sciatic nerve, this lower spine pain can feel like pins and needles. 
• Spine curvatures: caused by an abnormal spine shape, spine curvatures place additional pressure on the back muscles, tendons, ligaments, and vertebrae. 

Issues such as a strain may be able to heal themselves after a few days of rest, but other conditions, such as spine curvatures, will need additional attention to find relief. 

What Causes Thoracic Spine Pain?

If you are experiencing discomfort in your upper back, you may be dealing with thoracic spine pain. Upper back pain is most commonly caused by muscular problems or joint dysfunction, similar to the issues listed above. Any time muscles are irritated or vertebrae falls out of alignment, the discomfort will be felt in the spine. 

How to Reduce Spine Pain 

Depending on the cause, there are many ways to reduce spine pain. Even seemingly small adjustments can make a big difference in your spine’s health. Pay attention to your: 

• Posture: The way you sit and stand can have a dramatic impact on your spine’s alignment. Constantly hunched shoulders or excessive sitting in an unnatural position can cause additional pressure on your spine. 
• Furniture and mattress: We spend a lot of time sitting and sleeping, so having ergonomic furniture can help support your spine day and night. 
• Physical activity: Exercise is important for a healthy spine, but keep track of how you feel post exertion. If you notice lower spine pain after an activity, it may be too strenuous for your back. 

If you have spine pain that lasts for more than a few days, you may have a larger issue that could benefit from physical therapy. Physical therapy can help strengthen your back and protect it against future strain, while also helping you learn how to hold your body in proper alignment. 

Find Spine Pain Relief with IMPACT Physical Therapy 

Spine rehab is one of our specialties at IMPACT Physical Therapy. After a thorough examination, our team will assess your symptoms and develop a plan to help restore movement and strength. Request an appointment to start your path to healing today. 

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