Tucson: back pain and weight loss

Does your back ache more since you put on a few pounds? Back pain is one of the most common and most troublesome problems people have.

Many things can make low back pain and chronic back pain worse. These include strain, muscle weakness, sleeping position, lack of exercise and extra body weight.

Chiropractic care is one option many people use for back pain. Many chiropractors also encourage patients to look at other things that add stress to the back. Body weight is one of them.

How body weight and back pain are related

Research has linked extra body weight with a higher chance of back pain.

Extra weight can make everyday activity and exercise harder. Exercise helps strengthen your core muscles. A stronger core can take some of the load off your back.

Extra weight also adds load to your spine. That load can change your posture and put uneven stress on your lower back. This is one reason weight often comes up when people talk about lower back pain.

What weight loss may mean for your back

Some people notice less back pain after they lose weight. Research on the connection is still developing. Results vary from person to person.

One likely reason is simple. Less weight means less load on your spine and the muscles that support it.

How exercise supports your back

Many people find that regular exercise, paired with other care, helps them stay active. Exercise can help with weight loss. It also strengthens the core muscles that support your posture.

Talk with your medical doctor before you start a weight loss or exercise program.

If back pain keeps getting in the way of staying active, Dr. Rosseland can take a careful look at what is going on. You can also ask for pointers on fitting exercise into your routine alongside chiropractic care. Call (520) 444-1937 or request an appointment online. Same-day appointments are available when there is an opening.