Most of us have faced minor back problems at one time or another. For example, we often experience an increase in lower back pain when bending, walking, sitting, or standing too long in one position. Back pain is extremely common - about eight in 10 people in the UK are affected at some time in their lives. To begin on the positive side, patients must understand that most episodes of back pain resolve, and usually within a few weeks. Unfortunately, back pain can be among the most difficult and frustrating problems for patients and their doctors. Back pain can affect anyone at any age, but it's most common in people between the ages of 35 and 55.
Causes of Back Pain: You're more likely to develop simple back pain if you:
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Stand, sit or bend down for long periods
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Muscle strains are the most common cause of low back pain.
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Spinal stenosis causes back pain in the aging population. As we age, the spinal canal can become constricted, due in part to arthritis and other conditions.
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Lift, carry, push or pull loads that are too heavy, or if you go about these tasks in the wrong way
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Have a trip or a fall
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Are stressed or anxious
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Are overweight
