While lower back pain is common in both sexes, our chiropractors at Homewood suggest that women are more likely than men to seek treatment for back pain and discomfort. Therefore, a true picture of the amount of men suffering from back pain may not be present. When men do report their back pain, it is often associated with a work/ sports related injury whereas women are more likely to report pain of an unknown cause.
Overall, however, lower back pain is more commonly reported in both sexes than pain in the middle or upper regions of the spine.
Muscle strain in the lower back is a major cause of lower back pain for both men and women. Structures that have previously been injured are often prone to re-injury if the patient does not take appropriate risk-reducing precautions. Ensuring a proper lifting technique when handling heavy items and properly warming up and cooling down before and after a workout can help to prevent new or reoccurring injuries. Bending the spine can also put excess strain on the spinal column and risk damage to muscles and ligaments; so regular stretching can be effective in making the lower back muscles more flexible and less prone to injuries.
Nerve compression is another common form of lower back pain in both men and women. When a spinal nerve is compressed, symptoms such as muscle weakness, numbness and tingling may be present along with pain. This type of nerve compression may be due to a variety of conditions and symptoms usually only present in parts of the body that the compressed nerve supplies.
Other far less common conditions that can present with low back pain in both sexes include fractures of vertebrae due to advanced osteoporosis, bone infections, arthritis, spinal tumours and certain spinal deformities. (Even though men can suffer from osteoporosis, it is most commonly diagnosed in postmenopausal women). Some other medical conditions may also mimic lower back pain such as urinary tract infections, kidney stones, gall bladder stones and inflammation of the prostate gland.
Whether you are male or female, if you experience severe or persistent back pain, it is important that you seek medical advice. In most cases, an effective treatment plan can be put into place.
Our renowned team of chiropractors in Fareham are here to help and advise you on all aspects to do with your back pain.
For friendly advice or to book an appointment, contact us today on 01329 280 283 or email frontdesk@homewoodchiropractic.co.uk
Our Experience Counts: 55 Years in Fareham
Serving the people of Fareham, and surrounding areas of Southampton, Portsmouth, Hampshire and the local areas of Whiteley, Hedge End, Locks Heath & Portchester
