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There are a variety of reasons why older adults tend to experience more back pain than younger adults. Individuals over the age of 60 have an increased chance of stiffness and discomfort in their lower back. If you’re among this group, you’re not alone, and you’re not without options, either.
Your condition is unique after a lifetime of posture habits, previous injuries, and genetic factors. Ultimately, you will be best off consulting with a professional who can examine and treat your specific condition. Here are a few common factors that could be contributing to low back pain.
Osteoarthritis
If the pain that you experience in your lower back is most intense in the morning or before you go to sleep, it might be caused by osteoarthritis. Older adults with this condition have reported symptoms such as tenderness around a particular area of the spine, pain that worsens after physical movement, and limited range of motion.
This condition is caused by cartilage degeneration and can even result in sciatica pain if not properly treated by a medical professional.
Spinal Compression Fracture
Compression fractures are common among many older adults, particularly women over the age of 50 who have experienced menopause and have osteoporosis. These fractures can result from even gentle activities and will cause sudden pain along the spine.
The discomfort that can occur from spinal compression is usually lessened by laying flat on your back and can be exacerbated by walking or even standing for prolonged periods. If you believe you are experiencing spinal compression or a spinal fracture, ensure that you reduce any physical activity until speaking with your doctor.
Pinched Nerve or Herniated Disc
Nerves that travel from the spine are at risk of becoming pinched for a variety of reasons. Whatever the cause, the pain that results is persistent. While age is not necessarily a factor when it comes to experiencing this problem, older adults suffering from pinched nerves will experience sharp or even shooting pain which branches out towards the arms or legs.
Herniated discs will also result in similar discomfort, and it is important to ask your doctor to help you identify which of these issues you are experiencing to find the best treatment option.
Muscle Strain
Older adults who frequently participate in physical activity are more likely to experience muscle strain. Even low-impact activities such as walking, jogging, or yoga can result in this particular discomfort. Muscle strain can cause a feeling of tightness in the back that can persist for hours.
Adults who experience this pain have also reported persistent soreness and even occasional spasms. While many choose to seek out home remedies for this type of pain, including the application of both hot and cold temperatures to the affected area, the best course of action is to seek treatment with a medical professional as soon as you believe there is a problem.
Treat Your Lower Back Pain in Florida
If you find that your lower back pain interferes with your daily activities, contact us here at Orthopedic and Laser Spine Surgery in Florida. Our world-class specialists will provide you with a thorough evaluation and put you on the path to recovery by using state-of-the-art technology and treatments.
Want to learn more? Call 855-853-6542 or fill out a contact form to book an appointment today.