Can Being Overweight Cause Lower Back Pain?
May 18, 2024 | by Yashaswi Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's
Yes, being overweight can indeed cause lower back pain. There are several reasons for this:
- Increased Load on the Spine: Extra body weight, especially around the abdomen, can put additional stress on the lower back. This increased load can strain the muscles and ligaments in the back, leading to pain.
- Altered Posture: Excess weight, particularly in the abdominal area, can alter posture. This often results in an exaggerated lumbar lordosis (inward curvature of the lower back), which can cause discomfort and pain over time.
- Disc Degeneration: Carrying extra weight can accelerate the wear and tear on the spinal discs. These discs act as cushions between the vertebrae, and additional stress can lead to disc degeneration, which is a common cause of lower back pain.
- Muscle Imbalance and Weakness: Overweight individuals may have weakened abdominal muscles, which can lead to an imbalance. The back muscles have to work harder to compensate for this imbalance, often resulting in pain.
- Inflammation: Excess body fat, especially visceral fat, can contribute to chronic inflammation. This systemic inflammation can affect various parts of the body, including the lower back.
- Increased Risk of Other Conditions: Being overweight is associated with a higher risk of conditions like osteoarthritis and herniated discs, both of which can cause lower back pain.
Maintaining a healthy weight through a balanced diet and regular exercise can help reduce the risk of developing lower back pain. Additionally, strengthening core muscles can provide better support for the spine and alleviate some of the strain on the lower back.