Why Back Pain Keeps Coming Back (and What to Do About It)
If you’ve experienced back pain that comes and goes, you’re not alone.
For many, it seems like a minor inconvenience—annoying, but manageable. You rest, grab some Advil, maybe throw an ice pack on it, and in a few days, you’re feeling "fine" again.
But here’s the truth: just because the pain disappears doesn’t mean the problem is gone.
Let’s break down one of the biggest misconceptions about back pain and why addressing the root cause is the key to long-term relief.
The Cycle of Recurring Back Pain: Meet Bob
Every 2-3 months, Bob gets hit with back pain. Sometimes it’s a mild nuisance; other times, it’s severe enough to slow him down. His go-to remedies? Rest, Advil, and his trusty ice pack. After a week or so, the pain fades. But mornings stay a little stiff, and sudden movements cause a “catch” in his back.
To avoid another flare-up, Bob decides to take it easy and stop exercising.
This pattern continues for a few years. Then one day, Bob wakes up, and his back pain feels… different.
Now there’s pain shooting down his leg, accompanied by a tingling sensation in his foot. He quickly Googles his symptoms and concludes, “I must have sciatica… but isn’t that something only older people get?”
Bob tries his usual remedies—rest, Advil, ice. But this time, weeks go by, and the symptoms persist. Getting out of his car is tough, his foot stays numb, and even lying down doesn’t help.
What Happened to Bob?
Bob’s current symptoms didn’t appear out of nowhere. They’re the result of years of ignoring the root cause of his back pain.
Back pain is rarely the result of one sudden injury (outside of traumatic events like car accidents). Instead, it’s often caused by long-term stress on the lower back due to poor postures and movement habits—how we sit, stand, and move every day.
Bob’s tendency to treat only the symptoms (like pain) without addressing the underlying cause allowed the problem to worsen over time.
The Root Cause of Most Back Pain
Back pain often stems from:
Prolonged postures: Sitting or standing in positions that place extra stress on the lower back.
Poor movement habits: Repeatedly moving in ways that strain the spine.
Weak or imbalanced muscles: Lack of support from surrounding muscles can make the lower back more vulnerable to injury.
These factors create a cycle of recurring pain, making flare-ups more frequent and severe over time. Left unaddressed, the symptoms can escalate into nerve pain, like sciatica.
Why It’s Never Too Late to Take Action
Here’s the good news: even if your symptoms have progressed, you’re not destined to live with back pain forever. Like Bob, you can regain control—but it requires addressing the root cause of your pain.
Effective treatment involves more than masking the symptoms. It focuses on:
Understanding your postures: Assessing how you sit, stand, and move throughout the day to identify stressors on your lower back.
Improving movement patterns: Learning how to move safely during everyday activities and exercise.
Strengthening and supporting your back: Incorporating targeted exercises to build resilience and prevent future pain.
Education on pain management: Understanding how to interpret your symptoms and respond appropriately.
Why Ignoring Pain Isn’t the Answer
Pain is your body’s way of getting your attention. Ignoring it or masking it with quick fixes doesn’t solve the underlying problem. Over time, this approach can lead to more frequent and severe symptoms, limiting your ability to live the active, pain-free life you deserve.
Take Control of Your Back Pain
If Bob’s story sounds familiar, take it as a sign to act now. You don’t have to wait for your symptoms to get worse before seeking help.
At Momenta Chiropractic, we specialize in helping people like you identify the root cause of pain and build a plan for long-term relief. Whether it’s assessing your posture, refining your movement patterns, or building strength, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
FAQs About Back Pain
1. How do I know if my back pain is serious?
While most back pain resolves on its own, persistent pain, numbness, or tingling in your legs (like Bob’s symptoms) should be addressed by a professional. These could indicate a more serious issue, such as nerve compression.
2. Can strengthening my back really help with pain?
Yes! Building strength in the muscles that support your lower back can reduce stress on your spine, improve posture, and decrease the likelihood of future flare-ups.
3. What should I do if my back pain comes and goes?
Even if your pain seems minor, recurring symptoms are a sign that something needs attention. Addressing the root cause now can prevent more severe problems down the road.
Ready to take the first step? Let’s work together to help you move pain-free again.
Ready to Feel Your Best in Bryn Mawr, PA?
If you’re frustrated with treatment plans that haven’t worked or are ready to take the next step, we’re here to help. Our approach focuses on uncovering the root cause of your pain, tailoring care to your goals, and giving you the tools for long-term relief.
Ready to stay consistent with a personalized rehab plan?
Visit our office in Bryn Mawr or book a consultation today to get started.
Find Us in Bryn Mawr, PA
We’re proud to serve the Bryn Mawr community and help patients achieve long-term relief from pain. Stop by or give us a call to learn how we can help you move better and feel better.
Our Address:
Momenta Chiropractic LLC
827 West Lancaster Ave, 2nd Floor
Bryn Mawr, PA 19010
Looking for more tips on staying active and pain-free? Explore our blog for more resources.
