Lower back pain is one of the most common complaints doctors see. A variety of factors can contribute to it like pregnancy, genetics, even race.
It can be dull or excruciating, and could be a sign of a much more serious condition, especially for women. The National Institutes of Health reports women are four times more likely to develop osteoporosis than men. Here are three simple ways women can keep their backs healthy.
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First, be careful when you wear heels.
"It will just make your back pain worse," explained spinal surgeon Kenneth Light, MD.
Next is to lift correctly. Light recommended bringing the object close to the body and lifting with your legs.
Last, when you're at work, try to get up and walk around every half hour.
"Sitting in a chair [too long] produces pain in the back by causing it to arch excessively," Light explained.
According to the NIH, you should see a doctor for your pain if you have:
- Trouble urinating
- Weakness
- Numbness in your legs
- Fever
- Weight loss when not on a diet