As a result, over time, the back may lose its proper support and an unnatural curvature of the spine may develop. In particular, pain and problems in the low back may be aggravated by obesity. This occurs for people with extra weight in their stomachs because the excess weight pulls the pelvis forward and strains the lower back, creating lower back pain. According to the American Obesity Association, women who are obese or who have a large waist size are particularly at risk for lower back pain.
Obese or overweight patients may experience sciatica and low back pain from a herniated disc. This occurs when discs and other spinal structures are damaged from having to compensate for the pressure of extra weight on the back. In addition, pinched nerves and piriformis syndrome may result when extra weight is pushed into spaces between bones in the low back area. Arthritis of the spine that causes back pain may be aggravated when extra body weight strains joints.
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The American Obesity Association recommends modest weight loss as a treatment for some types of osteoarthritis. Obese patients are at higher risk for complications and infections after surgery compared to patients who are not obese. Although there is some debate over the specific meaning of BMI measurements, a BMI of 30 or higher is typically considered to be obese, while a measure of 25 to Patients who carry more weight around their midsection are at greater risk for obesity-related health problems, such as low back pain.
Weight loss for health considerations is often advisable for women with a waist measurement of more than 35 inches or men with a waist measurement of more than 40 inches. Spinal Anatomy and Back Pain. Lifestyle and Diet Tips for Healthy Bones.
How Obesity Leads to Back Pain
By Donald Frisco, MD. Peer Reviewed. Read more about Exercise and Back Pain This article examines the heightened risk and severity for certain back problems that obese or overweight patients may experience as a result of their weight. If you are suffering from back pain or mobility issues, here are some tips and ideas for your fitness routine. Most people know that yoga can increase flexibility, but studies show that regular yoga practice can also improve back pain and build strength in back muscles 2.
A trained yoga instructor will help you use proper form and alignment, but you can also try yoga at home with free online classes from websites such as Do Yoga With Me. Swimming can provide a full body workout that strengthens core muscles with minimal impact to joints.
Weight Loss for Back Pain Relief
It can also be effective in relieving back pain 3. But before you jump in the pool, keep in mind that certain swimming strokes can aggravate back pain. The breaststroke and backstroke may be better for swimmers with back pain, while the butterfly and freestyle should be avoided.
Stretching is not just for pre and post workout. Daily stretches when you wake up in the morning can alleviate tightness in the back. The key to getting maximum benefit from stretching is consistency. This video shows simple stretches that can be performed daily to relieve back pain. If you spend your day sitting at a desk, give yourself reminders to practice good posture and take a short break to do stretches such as these that you can do from your office chair.
Back pain sometimes occurs because your back overcompensates for weak muscles. Building up the muscles in your arms, shoulders, back, abdominals, and even your legs can help protect your back. If you suffer from back pain, your instinct may be to avoid weight bearing exercise, but studies show that resistance exercises or strength training with light weights can be beneficial for people with mild to moderate chronic back pain.
For exercises at home, try these back strengthening exercise videos. Sometimes the simplest solution is the best! A medical study of U. Keep your shoulders down and back, pull your abdominal muscles in, and walk at a pace that is comfortable but quicker than a stroll.
Losing Weight for Back Pain Relief
Keep the focus on walking and breathing no texting on your walk! Read more tips for walking to relieve back pain.
Whichever exercise you choose, keep in mind that consistency is the key to results. You may not find immediate relief from back pain after the first time you stretch, or lose any weight after your first week of daily walking, but if you stick with it you can experience benefits such as increased flexibility, reduced pain, and elevated energy.
Louis Bariatrics are committed to helping patients live healthier, more active lives. Contact us to schedule an appointment. Individual results may vary.