Lower Back Pain affects Old & Young

Office worker experiencing discomfort due to lower left back pain while at their desk.

Lower back pain usually starts when something irritates, strains, or overloads the structures in the lower spine.

Here’s a clear, age-appropriate way to understand how it happens:

1. Muscle or ligament strain (most common)

This happens when muscles are stretched or used too much.

• Lifting something heavy the wrong way

• Sudden twisting or bending

• Poor posture (slouching while sitting or using a phone)

• Carrying a heavy backpack

Tiny tears form in the muscle fibers, causing soreness and stiffness.

2. Poor posture over time

Sitting or standing with bad posture for long periods puts extra pressure on the lower back.

• Slouching at a desk

• Looking down at a phone for long periods

• Sitting without back support

Over time, muscles get tired and tight, leading to pain.

3. Weak core muscles

Your core (abs + back muscles) supports your spine.

• If these muscles are weak, the lower back works too hard

• This extra effort can lead to pain, especially during sports or physical activity

  
  

4. Overuse or sudden increase in activity

Doing too much too fast can strain the back.

• Starting a new sport

• Exercising intensely without warming up

• Repeating the same movement again and again

  
  

5. Growth-related factors (teens)

During growth spurts:

• Muscles can become tight

• Bones may grow faster than muscles adapt. This can temporarily cause lower back discomfort.

  

6. Injury or impact

• Falling

• Sports collisions

• Accidents

Even minor injuries can cause inflammation and pain.

Most mild back pain gets better with rest, gentle movement, and good posture & may improve within a few days to weeks; however, this isn't always the case. If your pain lasts more than a couple of weeks; is severe; keeps getting worse; or affects sleep, walking, or school activities, you should see a doctor and for a professional diagnosis to rule out any major issues. Best also to request an x-ray or MRI if necessary.

If the diagnosis is muscular, a Therapeutic Massage from a licenced professional Neuromuscular Therapist will help bring relief. If we (at Reformation Health Massage) can help - Please let us know. https://www.reformationhealthmassage.com/?utm_source=GMB&utm_medium=WebURL