Why Does My Back Hurt?

Frequent complaints of back pain are heard by doctors today, with lower-back pain outranking all others in the number of complaints. Your spine is central to the way your body moves, and pain in the spine is prone to affecting any other action you may take. Why each patient is experiencing back pain varies, but there are some common themes that are heard when an investigation of that pain takes place. Determining the source of your pain and how to treat it starts with analyzing it for clues.

Sleeping Position

How you sleep can have a profound effect on how your back feels in the morning. Poor sleeping positions frequently contribute to cases of back pain, especially lower back pain. Patients who state that they sleep on their stomach report more problems with back pain, while those who sleep on their sides experience the least amount of pain. A pillow helps those who sleep in either position when placed between the knees for side sleepers, or under the pelvis or abdomen for stomach sleepers.

Your bed can also be the culprit, especially when combined with poor sleeping practices. If your bed is too hard, too soft, or otherwise doesn’t provide proper support, it may be time to pick up a new mattress. Doing so can not only alleviate back pain but can provide a better night’s sleep.

Degenerating Discs

This is another common cause of back pain and is most often reported in older patients. In most cases, the cause is mere wear and tear that causes the intervertebral discs wearing down over time. Degenerative Disc Disease is another common cause and can occur in patients of any age. Patients experiencing this condition may receive pain medications or steroid injections to help ease discomfort. Back braces are also known to be effective.

Fibromyalgia

This condition can cause discomfort in all parts of the body, and the bones and muscles of the lower back are no exception. This condition directly affects how your body experiences pain signals and is most commonly found in female-bodied patients. If you live with any of these conditions in addition to morning back pain, the cause may be fibromyalgia.

• Fatigue

• Memory Issues

• Irritable Bowel Syndrome

• Restless Sleep

• Depression

• Anxiety

• Tension Headaches

Fibromyalgia has no cure, but there are medications and treatments available that can help mitigate its effects.

The Delaware Valley Pain & Spine Institute helps patients like you treat their back pain with the aim of alleviating discomfort and restoring quality of life. Dr. Todd Bromberg works closely with our family of patients, listening attentively to their specific concerns and addressing them in ways that are effective and suitable for their lifestyle. Call today to schedule an appointment at our clinic in Chalfont, PA, and start taking action to restore your quality of life by treating your back pain. Some conditions that cause back pain can become worse over time if left untreated, so contact us today!