Lower Back Pain When Standing But Not Sitting
Hyperlordosis is the excessive curve of the lower spine, creating a C-shaped curve. While slight curvature is typical, excessive curvature of the lower spine could lead to lower back pain and numbness. People often refer to hyperlordosis as swayback or hollow back.
Hyperlordosis creates an excessive and characteristic C-shaped curve in the lower back, or lumbar region, where the spine curves inward just above the buttocks. While lordosis refers to the natural inward curvature of the spine, hyperlordosis refers to an extreme curvature. While some curvature is typical, too much may cause pain and discomfort.
The spine consists of three curved segments :
the cervical spine, or neckthe thoracic spine, or chestthe lumbar spine, or lower back
Lumbar hyperlordosis often occurs due to slouching or a lack of exercise. Certain conditions may also cause or exacerbate the condition. In many cases, physical therapy can help improve symptoms that may occur with hyperlordosis. This article explores hyperlordosis and explains its symptoms and treatment.
- It also provides a list of exercises that may help relieve symptoms.
- A 2018 study investigated the effect of certain exercises on lower spine curvature, back muscle strength, and chronic lower back pain.
- The study participants performed a regular 60-minute workout, consisting of eight lumbar stabilization exercises that aimed to strengthen back muscles and increase spine flexibility.
They did this workout 3 days a week for 12 weeks. After 12 weeks, there was a reduction in lower back pain and increased lumbar muscle strength and flexibility. However, there was no significant change in the curvature of the spine. The workout included the below lumbar stabilization exercises.
Contents
Why does my lower back hurt only when I stand?
At times you can feel pain from simply walking or standing for long periods. You may believe you are doing everything correctly. Still, the discomfort is there as a daily reminder that something is not quite right. What Causes Lower Back Pain while Standing? The lower back is made up of vertebral bones that are assembled to support the body in an upright position. A jelly-filled disk is located between each of these bones to cushion them and offer stability. Also located on each side of these back bones are joints called facet joints.
These joints allow your back to be flexible when you have to twist or bend down. If the disk and facet joints become inflamed, they may produce pain in the lower back when standing. Does Standing for Long Periods of Time Cause Pain in the Lower Back? As we age, the disks and facet joints may begin to deteriorate.
This often produces lower back pain when standing during normal daily activity. When you are standing, the spine has a curvature, which may intensify contact between the facet joints. When there is inflammation in these joints, standing for long periods of time may worsen the inflammation and cause lower back pain.
Stress. Walking or standing for long periods of time puts pressure on your lower back. If you are standing a lot at a high-demand job, your back muscles may tense; thus, increasing the pain. Poor posture. Having poor posture for many years will affect the anatomy of your spine. The joints, disks, muscles, nerves, ligaments, and blood vessels in your back will experience additional stress. Being overweight. Did you know that for every pound of extra weight places an additional four pounds of stress on your joints, including the facet joints in your back. Sedentary lifestyle. Inactivity leads to what’s called Disuse Syndrome. If your lifestyle is inactive, you could unintentionally be causing the deterioration of your musculoskeletal system. Consequently, you’ll experience a long list of health conditions, including chronic lower back pain.
How Can I Stand with Back Pain? Here are some tips to try if you are one of the people who have more pain in standing:
Try placing one foot on a step. This limits too much spine curvature in standing. Stand for shorter periods. Stay away from high heels! High heels force the lower spine into increased curvature and can squeeze the facet joints. Consider a desk that adjusts from sitting to standing.
Many people with low back pain describe increased pain when sitting instead of standing. This pain is caused by flexion of the spine. Flexion happens in the seated position and increases compression on the lumbar disks. In this case, standing may reduce symptoms and control the excessive forces on the disks.
This may help to reduce lower back and hip pain. What Should I Do If I Can’t Make My Lower Back Pain When Standing Stop? If the low back pain suggestions listed above do not help, it may be worth seeing a orthopedic specialist so that they may find out what is causing your back pain. Orthopaedic Associates of St.
Augustine has a team of experts with world-class experts who can help you!
Why does my lower back hurt so much when I walk or stand?
The lowdown – Lower back pain when walking or standing can be caused by a range of problems, including poor posture, excess body weight, poor sleeping positions, and a lack of exercise. You can treat back pain at home with over-the-counter pain medication, physical therapy, and massage therapy.
Why does my back hurt when I just stand?
Stress on your back from poor posture is the most common cause of back pain for people who stand at work all day. It creates increased pressure on your spine that makes lower back muscles tighten and then spasm, which causes pain.
Is it OK to walk with lower back pain?
Low back pain: Why movement is so important for back pain Created: February 9, 2012 ; Last Update: February 14, 2019 ; Next update: 2022. One of the most important things that people with low back pain can do is to stay as physically active as possible in daily life and exercise regularly.
- Things that have been proven to help include exercises to strengthen the core muscles, as well as certain exercises used in pilates, tai chi and yoga.
- Not moving enough can weaken your core muscles, make the pain worse over the long term, and also lead to other health problems.
- Because of this, people who have back pain are often advised to get “more exercise” and “stay active.” There are good reasons for this advice: For a start, regular physical exercise has been shown to reduce pain.
What’s more, it’s a good idea to go about your daily life as normally as possible, and not to let the pain limit your activities too much. Isolating yourself or no longer doing things you enjoy will make it even harder to cope with back pain. More than 100 studies have looked into various types of exercise.
- So this is by far one of the best studied treatment approaches.
- Exercise and sports are also among the few treatments that have been proven to relieve back pain.
- This is the reason why most medical societies around the world recommend regular exercise for people with back pain.
- Although exercise programs don’t always make back pain go away completely, they often relieve the pain and improve your overall fitness and mobility.
Research has also found that doing regular exercise can reduce the frequency of recurring back pain attacks by almost half. It is often hard to stay active if you are in pain. Some people are even scared of moving too much. They might be worried that the pain is a sign of a back injury.
- But that isn’t the case when it comes to non-specific back pain, which is usually caused by many different factors.
- These include weak or tense core muscles, inappropriate physical strain, a problem with the processing of pain in the brain, as well as stress and other types of emotional strain.
- It’s important to remember that if the doctor has ruled out (rare) serious causes of the symptoms, there is no need to be afraid of movement.
Types of exercise that have proven effective include the following:
Special programs consisting of exercises to strengthen and stabilize the deep abdominal (tummy), back and pelvic muscles, as well as endurance training and exercises to stretch the muscles in the calves, hips and thighs. Pilates : A total body workout in which strengthening the deep core muscles is key. Tai chi : Originally an Asian martial art, tai chi is now practiced with slow, flowing movements. It can improve your balance and coordination skills, strengthen your muscles, and is said to help you relax your body and mind. Yoga : An ancient Indian practice that aims to improve your body awareness and health. Yoga typically involves getting into various positions or carrying out certain sequences of movements that aim to promote strength and flexibility, body awareness and a good posture. Going on walks : Initial research suggests that going on a walk or brisk walking (Nordic walking) can help relieve back pain if done regularly – for instance, every two days for 30 to 60 minutes.
A doctor or physiotherapist can help you to find a suitable type of exercise that is tailored to your situation and that you enjoy. People who have medical problems often find it helpful to have a course instructor or trainer with the appropriate experience.
You may need patience to start off with: It can take several weeks for the exercise to have an effect. Your body also needs to get used to the extra movement. That can be tiring and lead to harmless muscle ache, and it sometimes makes the pain worse for a while. In order for it to help in the long run too, you have to stick to your exercise program.
This requires a lot of motivation, and many people find it tough after a while – particularly if they have a very busy job or home life. It is then important to find a way to fit the exercise into your daily routine. Many people find it easier to exercise regularly if they sign up for a class or exercise together with friends.
Some make sure they pack their sports bag before going to work, or increase their motivation by rewarding themselves with a treat afterwards. It is also a good idea to have check-ups with a physiotherapist or doctor to adjust the exercise program if necessary. If you spend a lot of time sitting in an office, you can be kind to your back by taking regular breaks and moving your body – for instance, by getting up out of your chair, stretching, doing short exercises and going on a walk in your lunch break.
Some people find it helpful to wear a fitness tracker watch, or to set reminders on their mobile phone or computer. Other ways to get more exercise into your daily routine include the following:
Not using escalators or elevators (lifts), and always taking the stairs instead. Regularly getting off one stop before your actual bus or tram stop, and walking the rest of the way. Trying to walk or cycle as much as possible. Getting up and walking around while you’re talking on your mobile or cordless phone.
Patient education classes provide you with facts and techniques to help prevent or relieve back pain. There is usually both a theoretical and practical part. The classes typically include modules on the anatomy of the spine and the back, advice on postures and movements that don’t put harmful strain on the back, and back-strengthening exercises.
- These courses are often offered at gyms and physiotherapy practices.
- Patient education classes haven’t yet been scientifically proven to help people with chronic low back pain.
- Some studies found that they helped a bit, while others did not.
- There are a lot of different patient education classes, sometimes differing greatly in terms of what they cover and the approaches they use.
This might explain why the results of the studies varied so much.
How do I know if back pain is muscle or more serious?
5 sensations that might indicate a medical emergency – 1. Sharp pain rather than a dull ache: This could indicate a torn muscle or ligament, or a problem with an internal organ in the back or side.2. Radiating pain: This pain “moves” or shoots to the glutes or legs, which could indicate a nerve compression condition. : 5 signs your back pain might be an emergency
How long does lower back strain last?
Fund Neurosurgical Research While You Shop – Did you know you can support education and research for low back strain and sprain while you shop, at no extra cost to you? Register with AmazonSmile to designate the NREF as your charity, and a percentage of your purchase is donated automatically. sign up for free If low back pain lasts for longer than one to two weeks, seek medical care.
- Severe abdominal pain
- Unexplained fever (higher than 100.4F or 38.0C)
- Loss of control of your bowels or bladder
Diagnostic testing is usually not necessary, unless pain has lasted for more than six weeks and has not improved as expected following physical therapy. It is important to rule out underlying causes, such as an undetected disc injury. If symptoms are persistent for longer than six weeks and physical therapy has not improved the condition, the following tests may be ordered by a doctor.
- X-ray: An x-ray produces a picture of a part of the body, and can show the structure of the vertebrae and the outline of the joints. X-rays of the spine are used to search for other potential causes of pain, i.e. infections, fractures, etc.
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI): A diagnostic test that produces three-dimensional images of body structures using powerful magnets and computer technology; can show the spinal cord, nerve roots and surrounding areas as well as enlargement, degeneration and tumors.
Low Back Strain Image from Radiopaedia Staying active and avoiding bed rest is recommended when experiencing back pain. Bed rest can lead to a loss of muscle strength and may increase muscle stiffness, adding to pain and discomfort. Sprain and strain is commonly treated with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medication, if the pain is mild to moderate.
- A doctor may recommend physical therapy,
- The therapist will perform an in-depth evaluation, which, combined with the doctor’s diagnosis, dictates a treatment specifically designed for patients with low back pain.
- Therapy may include pelvic traction, gentle massage, ice and heat therapy, ultrasound, electrical muscle stimulation and stretching exercises.
A physical therapist will also recommend exercises to do regularly at home in the long-term. Alternative holistic options to relieve low back pain include acupuncture, chiropractic care, massage and yoga. Pain medications and muscle relaxants may also be helpful on a short-term basis in combination with the physical therapy.
- The likelihood of a complete recovery from a lumbar strain or sprain injury is excellent.
- More than 90% of patients completely recover from an episode of lumbar muscle strain or sprain within one month.
- Heat and ice treatment are recommended on an as-needed basis at home to treat sudden flare-ups of low back pain, along with anti-inflammatory medications.
However, low back strain may develop into a chronic condition unless efforts are made to change habits that contribute to the problem. Low Back Strain Image from Ehealth Star The following tips may be helpful in preventing low back pain associated with strain and sprain:
- Do core strengthening exercises to provide more spine stability in the long-term. Swimming, stationary bicycling and brisk walking are good aerobic exercises that generally do not put extra stress on the back.
- Use correct lifting and moving techniques, such as squatting to lift a heavy object. Do not bend and lift. Get help if an object is too heavy or awkward.
- Maintain correct posture when sitting and standing.
- Quit smoking. Smoking is a risk factor for arthrosclerosis (hardening of the arteries), which can cause lower back pain and degenerative disc disorders.
- Avoid stressful situations, if possible, as this can cause muscle tension.
- Maintain a healthy weight. Extra weight, especially around the midsection, can put strain on the lower back.
- 1. Cleveland Clinic. (2018). Back Strains and Sprains. Retrieved from https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/10265-back-strains-and-sprains
- 2. NIH. (2019). Low Back Pain Fact Sheet. Retrieved from https://www.ninds.nih.gov/disorders/patient-caregiver-education/fact-sheets/low-back-pain-fact-sheet
Patient Pages are authored by neurosurgical professionals, with the goal of providing useful information to the public. Julie G. Pilitsis MD, PhD, FAANS, is a professor of neurosurgery and of neuroscience at Albany Medical College and Chair for the Department of Neuroscience and Experimental Therapeutics.
- To date, Dr.
- Pilitsis has served as chair of the AANS/CNS Section on Pain as well as chair of the AANS/CNS Section for Women in Neurosurgery. Dr.
- Pilitsis maintains an NIH sponsored research program focused on device optimization for neuromodulation and has published over 120 journal articles, 4 books and numerous chapters.
She serves as section editor of functional neurosurgery in Operative Neurosurgery and is on the editorial board of Neuromodulation. Disclaimer The AANS does not endorse any treatments, procedures, products or physicians referenced in these patient fact sheets.
Why does my back hurt when I straighten up?
Category: Back Pain | Author: Stefano Sinicropi – The motion of bending forward is incredibly common. You probably bend over more than you realize to pick something up or set something down. Because this is such a regular task, back pain in this area can be a big obstacle that impedes on a person’s daily life.
Bulging Disc & Pinched Nerves. Spinal Arthritis,, Stenosis of the Spine.
All of these factors can lead to pain in the cervical or lumbar region of the spine.
How long should you have lower back pain before seeing a doctor?
When Should I See a Doctor for Back Pain? – Content When your back first starts to hurt, try taking an over-the-counter pain reliever (for example, aspirin, ibuprofen, or acetaminophen) and applying ice in the first 48 hours. You may apply heat after 48 hours.
You may need to take it easy for a while, but “it’s best to stay as active as tolerated, and to avoid absolute bed rest,” said Dr. Guo. If your back pain lasts more than two weeks and keeps you from participating in normal, daily activities, see your family doctor. If your pain is severe, you should see a doctor sooner.
You should seek urgent medical care if you have:
Fever associated with back pain Back pain after trauma Loss of bladder or bowel control Loss of strength in your arms and legs Unexplained weight loss associated with back pain
Also, always be more cautious if you have special risk factors for cancer, infection, or fractures that may affect the spine.
How long should I rest for lower back pain?
Abstract – Bed rest is usually considered an efficient treatment for acute low back pain. However, the optimal duration of bed rest is still being discussed. The recommended periods vary from 2 days to 2 weeks. The duration of optimum length is an important topic given the economical and physiological drawbacks of prolonged inactivity. The purpose of this work is to measure objectively the efficacy of two different durations of bed rest through a dynamometric measure of trunk function. Some 51 male patients, students or self-employed, being treated for acute low back pain were randomized into two groups. Group I was prescribed a bed rest period of 3 days and group II, a period of 7 days. We used a multi-axis isoinertial trunk testing dynamometric device (Isostation B200, Isotechnologies, USA). Patients were all assessed on day 1 and also on day 5 for group I or on day 9 for group II. The variables measured in the sagittal plane were isometric torques in flexion and extension, unresisted range of motion, average dynamic torques and average velocities. Patients were also asked to fill in a visual analogue pain scale on both assessment days. The improvement of all performance measures were important and highly significant (P < 0.001) in both groups. The results of the functional testing and the visual analogue pain scale showed no significant differences between the groups. In these relatively young and motivated patients, a duration of bed rest of 3 days resulted in the same objective functional improvement of trunk function and pain rating as a period of 7 days. This shorter duration should be considered as preferable, given the same objective results but important physiological and economical advantages.
How to tell the difference between muscle strain and herniated disk?
Herniated disc symptoms – A herniated disc occurs when one of the spongy discs located between each pair of spine bones gets squeezed out of its normal position and bulges outward, beyond the edge of the bones. The bulging or herniated part of the disc presses on nerves as they exit the spine, resulting in pain and other symptoms.
Your symptoms extend from your neck or lower back into your shoulders, arms, buttocks, or legs. When the nerves exit your spine, they travel to other parts of your body. Since a herniated disc presses on these nerves, you can experience pain and other symptoms anywhere along that nerve pathway — even all the way down to your hands or calves. You’re experiencing numbness, tingling, or shock-like bursts of pain. Since your nerves are responsible for sensation, when a nerve is compressed, it can interfere with your ability to feel, and it can also cause electricity-like jolts of discomfort along the nerve pathway. Your symptoms are focused around your neck and shoulders or your lower back and buttocks. The lower back and neck are the most flexible parts of your spine, and they’re also where most herniated discs occur. While pain in your mid-back may be related to a disc, it’s more likely caused by muscle strain or other issues. Your symptoms feel worse when you bend or straighten up from a bent position. Movement can increase pressure on the herniated disc and the surrounding nerves, causing symptoms to increase. Many people find that sitting or lying in specific positions makes their pain worse as well. You have muscle weakness or muscle fatigue in your arms, hands, or legs. Your nerves also control muscle movements, so if a nerve is compressed, your muscles can also be affected.
Herniated discs can occur in just about anyone, but they’re more common among people who are:
Older Obese or overweight Pregnant Inclined to stand or sit for long periods of time Mostly sedentary
Repetitive movements like bending or lifting, as well as carrying unbalanced loads like a heavy backpack or shoulder bag, can also increase your risk for developing a herniated disc.
What does a pulled muscle in lower back feel like?
Common Symptoms of a Pulled Back Muscle – Symptoms to expect from a pulled lower back muscle—or any type of lower back strain—typically include:
Dull, achy low back pain. Strained muscles usually feel sore, tight, or achy. Pain that feels hot, tingling, or electric is more likely caused by an irritated nerve root, not a pulled muscle. Intensified pain with movement. Low back strain typically worsens with specific movements that activate the affected muscles. For example, there may be a flare-up of pain when getting up from a seated position, when bending forward, or when first getting out of bed in the morning. Pain that is localized in the low back. Pain is usually concentrated in the lower back. It may also be felt in the buttocks and/or hips, as these muscles help support the low back. Rarely does pain travel down the legs and into the calves and feet, as in cases of sciatica,
Stiffness, difficulty walking or standing. Typical movements may be limited when a low back muscle is strained, making it difficult to bend, shift positions, or walk or stand for extended periods. Local tenderness and inflammation. A muscle strain may become inflamed and feel tender to the touch. Muscle spasms and cramps can cause intense pain and temporarily limit mobility, as the affected area in the lower back may be swollen for a few days. Watch: Causes of Back Muscle Spasms Video Pain relief when resting. Briefly resting the low back muscles allows them to relax, alleviating tension and spasms. Reclining in a supported position, such as sitting in a recliner with legs elevated or lying in bed or on the floor with the knees slightly elevated, may temporarily reduce pain. Pain will likely intensify when getting up to move again. See Lower Back Pain Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment
A common underlying component of the intense pain associated with a lower back muscle strain is from muscle spasms, The acute contraction of muscle fibers in the lower back, which are intertwined within and around an extensive network of nerves, can cause intense pain. Dr. Kojo Hamilton is a neurosurgeon at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center. For more than a decade he has specialized in spine trauma, adult spinal deformity, and minimally invasive spine surgery.
How long does a pulled muscle in the lower back take to heal?
Recovery and Outcome – Back muscle strains typically heal with time, many within a few days, and most within 3 to 4 weeks. Most patients with mild or moderate lumbar strains make a full recovery and are free of symptoms within days, weeks, or possibly months.