Back and neck pain are rarely the result of a singular injury. Instead, they usually develop over time due to posture, age-related changes, and lifestyle habits. Being aware of these factors, making meaningful lifestyle changes, and knowing when to see a professional are key to protecting your spinal health and preventing your neck and back pain from becoming chronic.
How Posture Affects the Spine
Slouching or leaning your head down at your phone can actually cause a lot of pain. When your head isn’t properly aligned over your neck, it can put stress on your cervical spine. Even the smallest deviation from proper alignment can cause unnecessary pressure because your muscles have to work extra hard to keep your head in place.
When your neck is pulled forward, your shoulders naturally pull forward as well, creating a hunched appearance and tension in your shoulders and neck, as well as back pain. Over time, posture can also lead to degenerative spine issues from putting too much pressure on the discs in your spine, joints, and vertebrae.
Disc Issues that Cause Neck and Back Pain
Disc issues are a common cause of neck and back pain, as discs are foundational to shock absorption in the spine. Because intervertebral discs cushion the vertebrae against daily impact, problems with these discs often result in increased pain. Here are two common disc conditions that can develop over time as you age:
Cervical Degenerative Disc Disease
The name cervical degenerative disc disease is deceiving because it is actually a condition, not a disease, where the spinal discs lose strength and flexibility due to aging, injury, or poor posture. It can lead to bone spurs, nerve compression, neck and back pain, numbness, and stiffness.
Herniated Disc
A herniated disc occurs when the outer layer of a spinal disc tears, allowing the inner disc material to compress nearby nerves. Herniated discs can cause neck and back pain, weakness, and numbness.
Lifestyle Factors that Affect Spinal Health
Over time, the everyday wear and tear begins to affect your body. The gradual breakdown and loss of function in body tissues and joints is known as degenerative change. Age is not the only factor in degenerative changes. Everyday aspects of your lifestyle may be contributing to your neck and back pain. Here are some common behaviors that might be affecting your spinal health:
- Prolonged sitting
- Repetitive strain from work or other activities
- Poor sleep positions
- Weak core or back muscles
- Carrying heavy bags
- Ignoring stress
Looking out for your spinal health means making small changes that can have a big impact. For example, if you’re seated at work all day, get up to stretch and walk around once an hour. Or if you’re used to carrying heavy bags on one shoulder, consider switching to a backpack with two straps.
When to See an Orthopedic Specialist
Catching your pain early is key to avoiding further issues. If your neck or back pain persists despite rest, stretching, or over-the-counter medication, it may be time to seek professional care. Signs that you should consult with an orthopedic spine specialist include:
- Pain that disrupts daily activities or sleep
- Weakness or numbness in your extremities
- Change in the alignment of your spine
- One shoulder is higher than the other
- Problems with bowel or bladder function
At Orthopedic Specialists of Jacksonville, we provide personalized spinal care tailored to your needs. From physical therapy and imaging to surgical consultations, we’re dedicated to helping you achieve lasting relief so you can get back to your best.
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