Can Weight Loss Cause Back Bain?
Lacey Weight Loss and Back Pain – What’s the Connection?
Are you struggling with chronic back pain and considering weight loss as a possible solution? You’re not alone. Many people experience back pain, but the connection between weight loss and back pain is still unclear other than pressure. We will take a look at the benefits of losing weight and how it can alleviate back pain, as well as other causes of back pain that obese people may experience.
The Benefits of Losing Weight
Most people associate losing weight with having more energy and feeling better overall—but did you know that shedding extra pounds can also help reduce your risk of developing various musculoskeletal conditions? Obese individuals are more likely to suffer from conditions such as lower back pain, which can be relieved by losing just 10-15% of their body weight. Losing weight can also improve posture, making it easier for you to move around without experiencing any discomfort.
Other Causes of Back Pain in Obese People
In addition to the strain on their joints from carrying around extra pounds, obese people may also suffer from other musculoskeletal issues such as degenerative disc disease (DDD). DDD occurs when discs in the spine wear down due to age or trauma, leading to inflammation and stiffness. This condition can become worse if an individual is overweight due to increased pressure on the spine. Other factors such as lack of exercise or incorrect posture while sitting can also contribute to DDD or worsen existing symptoms.
Lastly, obesity can increase your risk of developing osteoarthritis (OA), which is an inflammation of the joints caused by wear-and-tear damage over time. OA is most commonly seen in older adults but those who are overweight have been found to develop earlier onset OA due to excess stress being placed on their joints from carrying extra body weight. Fortunately, this issue can be addressed by gradually reducing body mass index (BMI)—the ratio between someone’s height and weight —over time through healthy dieting and regular physical activity.
Weight loss has many potential benefits for those who are suffering from chronic back pain, including reduced pressure on joints, improved posture, decreased risk of degenerative disc disease (DDD), and decreased risk of osteoarthritis (OA). While there are several causes for back pain that obese individuals should be aware of, engaging in healthy lifestyle changes such as eating a balanced diet and exercising regularly could potentially reduce these risks substantially over time. If you’re looking for long-term relief from your chronic back pain, then consider speaking with your doctor about whether engaging in a weight loss program could be right for you!