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Obesity and Back Pain
- 2025-02-03
- Reading time: 10 min.
Table of Contents
Understanding Obesity and Back Pain
While people often use the terms overweight and obese interchangeably, they are not the same. Obesity is medically determined using the Body Mass Index (BMI), a simple calculation based on height and weight.4 A BMI over 30 means that someone is obese, while a BMI above 40 signifies severe obesity. Obese individuals often face significant health challenges, including a higher risk of developing diabetes, heart disease, sleep apnea, cancer, and musculoskeletal problems.5
Chronic back pain describes lower back discomfort that persists for over three months. Symptoms may include a dull ache, sharp pain, and reduced flexibility. The connection between obesity and chronic back pain arises from the additional weight that exerts pressure on the spine and surrounding muscles. In addition to causing physical strain, this pressure may disrupt normal posture and spinal alignment, further exacerbating discomfort and limiting mobility.
When not properly managed, this insidious combination can make it exceedingly difficult to perform everyday tasks inside the home, trapping individuals in constant frustration and discomfort.
Treatment Options for Obesity and Back Problems
Healthcare providers may recommend several treatments for obese individuals with coexisting back pain, including:
Weight Loss Programs
Structured diet and exercise regimes can help obese individuals lose weight. On the other hand, program adherence can be challenging, especially when faced with chronic pain.
Physical Therapy
Tailored exercises can strengthen core muscles and improve movement, alleviating back pain. Unfortunately, excessive pain levels can hinder therapy session attendance and effort.
Medications
Pain relief and weight loss medications may provide temporary relief. However, most come with potential side effects and dependency concerns that can complicate long-term use and efficacy.
Surgery
While bariatric surgery or spinal surgery can help alleviate obesity or back issues, surgeries come with inherent risks and require significant post-operative lifestyle modifications.
Counseling
Whether group or individual, professional counseling can help participants cope with emotional challenges related to either condition. However, the effectiveness may vary based on one’s willingness to participate and stop negative behaviors.
Ready to Reclaim Your Freedom and Independence?
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