Causes of back pain in middle of back
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Causes of Back Pain in the Middle of the Back
Back pain, particularly in the middle of the back, is a prevalent issue affecting individuals globally. Understanding the causes of this condition is crucial for developing effective prevention and treatment strategies. This article synthesizes findings from multiple research studies to highlight the primary causes of middle back pain.
Obesity and Physical Inactivity
Obesity and lack of physical activity are significant contributors to back pain. Studies have shown that individuals with higher body weight and those who do not engage in vigorous physical activity are at an increased risk of experiencing frequent back pain. Specifically, middle-aged women with obesity and those who are physically inactive are more likely to report persistent back pain over several years 13.
Psychological Factors: Depression and Stress
Psychological factors such as depression and stress are also closely linked to back pain. Research indicates that depressive symptoms significantly increase the risk of frequent back pain. This association is particularly strong in middle-aged women, where depression can exacerbate the perception of pain and contribute to its persistence 13. Additionally, stress sensitivity and anxiety have been found to correlate with back pain, further highlighting the importance of mental health in managing this condition 9.
Socioeconomic Status and Education
Low socioeconomic status and lower levels of education are associated with a higher prevalence of back pain. Individuals from lower socioeconomic backgrounds often have limited access to healthcare and may engage in more physically demanding jobs, which can contribute to the development and persistence of back pain 23.
Bone Mineral Density
Interestingly, there is a positive relationship between bone mineral density and back pain in middle-aged women. Higher bone mineral density has been associated with an increased likelihood of experiencing back pain, suggesting that both low and high bone mineral density can be problematic for musculoskeletal health 5.
Cluneal Nerve Entrapment
Cluneal nerve entrapment is another cause of back pain, particularly in the lower and middle back regions. This condition, known as cluneal nerve syndrome, involves the entrapment of the superior and middle cluneal nerves, leading to pain that can radiate to the buttocks and legs. The pain is often deep, aching, and poorly localized, and it can be relieved with local anesthetic injections 6.
Physical and Mental Comorbidities
Individuals with physical and mental comorbidities, such as those with physically demanding jobs, smokers, and those with other chronic conditions, are at a higher risk of developing back pain. These comorbidities can exacerbate the severity and duration of back pain, making it more challenging to manage 2.
Conclusion
Middle back pain is a multifaceted condition influenced by a variety of factors, including obesity, physical inactivity, psychological distress, socioeconomic status, bone mineral density, and nerve entrapment. Addressing these risk factors through targeted interventions can help reduce the burden of back pain and improve the quality of life for those affected. Further research and global initiatives are needed to develop comprehensive strategies for managing and preventing back pain.
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Most relevant research papers on this topic
Course and Contributors to Back Pain in Middle-aged Women Over 9 Years: Data From the Australian Longitudinal Study on Women's Health
Obesity, depressive symptoms, low-education status, and lack of vigorous physical activity are associated with increased risk of frequent back pain in middle-aged women over 9 years.
Observational Study
Very Rigorous JournalWhat low back pain is and why we need to pay attention
Low back pain is a common and leading cause of disability worldwide, with increasing disability and costs in low-income and middle-income countries.
Rigorous Journal
Highly CitedPredictors of Back Pain in Middle Aged Women: Data from the Australian Longitudinal Study on Women's Health
Increased weight, weight gain, and depression are predictors of back pain in middle-aged women, while vigorous physical activity is protective.
WITHDRAWN: Multidisciplinary bio-psycho-social rehabilitation for chronic low-back pain.
Multidisciplinary bio-psycho-social rehabilitation shows limited evidence for improving pain, function, employment, quality of life, and global assessment outcomes in chronic low back pain patients.
Systematic ReviewHighly CitedPositive relationship between bone mineral density and low back pain in middle-aged women
High bone mineral density is significantly associated with low back pain in middle-aged women, making it a public health issue as important as low bone mineral density and osteoporosis.
Observational StudySuperior and Middle Cluneal Nerve Entrapment: A Cause of Low Back and Radicular Pain.
Cluneal nerve syndrome, characterized by deep, aching low back pain and variable involvement of buttocks and legs, can be effectively treated with local anesthetic injections.
Literature ReviewLow Back Pain in Low- and Middle-Income Countries, Part 1: The Problem.
Low back pain is a leading cause of disability and economic burden in low- and middle-income countries, challenging the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals and requiring urgent policy action.
The epidemiology of back pain and its relationship with depression, psychosis, anxiety, sleep disturbances, and stress sensitivity: Data from 43 low- and middle-income countries.
Back pain is associated with elevated mental health comorbidity in low- and middle-income countries, suggesting integrated interventions addressing both pain and mental health issues could be beneficial.
Observational StudyHighly CitedCauses of Pain Worldwide
Chronic pain is a global health epidemic, with low back pain being the leading cause and higher prevalence in the elderly population.
Very Rigorous Journal