Back Pain

Did you know that 70-90% of people will experience lower back pain at some point in their lives? For women, this issue is even more common. Studies show that 73.9% of women aged 18 and over report back pain, compared to 68.2% of men.

Lower back pain can stem from various sources, including repetitive movements, improper loading of the spine, disc bulges, and nerve impingement. The two main types of lower back pain are:

1. Mechanical Pain: Often caused by stress on the spine and joints.
2. Radicular Pain (Sciatica): Associated with nerve root compression, resulting in sharp pain that radiates down the leg, often accompanied by numbness, tingling, or weakness.

Common Symptoms of Back Pain:

• Sharp or Burning Pain: Often localized to the lower back but can radiate to the hips or legs if nerves are involved.
• Tingling or Numbness (Sciatica): Can travel down one leg, indicating nerve root irritation.
• Muscle Tightness or Spasm: Results from muscle strain, imbalance, or overuse, leading to stiffness.
• Loss of Bladder or Bowel Control: This serious symptom, potentially indicating cauda equina syndrome, requires immediate medical attention.
• Difficulty with Movement: Pain may make standing, walking, or sitting for long periods challenging, impacting daily activities.

Co-contributing Factors to Back Pain
Back pain can be worsened by several factors, including poor posture, improper lifting techniques, lack of exercise, and excess body weight. Additional factors, such as pelvic floor or hip dysfunction, can also contribute to or exacerbate lower back pain. 

Pelvic floor dysfunction, including weakened or overactive pelvic floor muscles, can cause instability and increase pressure on the lower back. 

Chronic hip conditions like arthritis, hip impingement, or muscle imbalances can alter movement patterns, placing extra stress on the lower back and aggravating pain.

Pregnancy and Back Pain
During pregnancy, hormonal changes, the growing baby, and shifts in posture can put additional stress on the spine and joints, leading to back pain. As the body adjusts to accommodate the growing baby, women may experience increased pressure and discomfort in the lower back.

Menopause and Back Pain
In menopause, hormonal fluctuations and decreased estrogen levels can lead to musculoskeletal changes, contributing to joint stiffness and discomfort. This condition, known as musculoskeletal syndrome of menopause, can cause aches and pains, including back pain, as women experience changes in their bones and connective tissues.

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, seeking help from a Women’s Health Physiotherapist can make a significant difference in managing your pain and improving your quality of life.

Physiotherapy is a highly effective approach for managing back pain, improving mobility, and enhancing overall quality of life. 

Our Women’s Health Physiotherapists not only have specialized knowledge of back pain but we also understand the unique wellness needs of women at different life stages. Whether you’re navigating pregnancy, postnatal recovery, menopause, healthy aging or looking to maintain general wellness, we provide individualized care tailored to your specific needs. We provide hands-on care and tailored exercise programs to reduce pain, improve function, and help you stay active and comfortable in daily life… for the long term.