Back Pain Archive

A small, randomized trial published online Jan. 3, 2022, by JAMA Network Open suggests that aquatic or pool therapy is more effective at reducing chronic low back pain than physical therapy.

Strong core muscles—those in the abdomen, back, sides, pelvis, hips, and buttocks—support cardiovascular health by helping people stay active. Easy core exercises include chair stands, standing leg lifts, and walk-and-carry exercises. The latter are especially helpful because they strengthen many muscles at the same time and simulate real-life activities such as carrying groceries or a laundry basket.

Chronic low back pain is a leading cause of long-lasting pain and disability worldwide. Treatment options help some people but not all, leaving millions seeking safe, effective treatment. An 8-week program using a virtual reality device aims to offers lasting relief, but valid questions about evidence of effectiveness have not yet been answered.

"Pandemic posture" refers to poor posture from slouching at a desk or on a couch during time at home during the pandemic, and it can result in back or neck pain. To reduce pain, doctors recommend exercising every day; working with a physical therapist to learn the right way to sit up straight and how to strengthen the muscles that support the posture; using a chair with cushioning for the buttocks and support for the lower back; using a footrest; keeping a computer monitor at eye level; and using an ergonomically designed mouse and wrist pad.

People commonly think back pain comes from the kidney, but it's more likely due to a muscle- or spine-related problem. When pain is related to the kidney, the pain is higher up in the back, and the symptoms are different, such as a fever and waves of intense pain rather than a steady ache.