Lower back pain is the second leading cause of missing days from school or work in America. Some lower back pain is caused by stress or disease. But often there is an injury that results in lower back pain. While some of these injuries are unavoidable, you can manage your risk for others, and keep your back healthy in the long run.

Back Pain from Accidents

The most common injuries resulting in lower back pain come from accidents. Auto accidents can cause muscle strains, sprain the ligaments and tendons in the back, and compress discs (which causes nerve pain in the back). Injuries resulting in lower back pain can also stem from fractures in the back, whether large or hairline. Back pain can also come from motorcycle accidents, especially since a motorcycle provides no protection for the muscles and bones in your back. There are also household accidents that can result in injury to the lower back. Things like falling down the steps can result in a serious injury; actress Jenna Fischer was in the hospital for weeks after falling down a flight of stairs and breaking bones in her back. While accidents are usually unavoidable, defensive driving and awareness of your surroundings can help to minimize your risk

Back Pain from Overuse

Overuse injuries can also result in lower back pain. Things like continual lifting can wear down cartilage over time. Overuse of back muscles without taking proper precautions can lead to a slipped or ruptured disc, both which put pressure on the nerves in the spinal column. Be sure that when you are doing any activity that involves lifting or puts strain on your back that you are using proper technique and are taking necessary precautions to avoid injury.

Back Pain from Sports

Sports injuries often result in lower back pain. Sports of any type put a strain on your body, and can result in injury, even when done correctly. Muscle strains and tears are the most common sports-related injury that can result in lower back pain. It’s important to treat these carefully, and seek the advice of a doctor or trainer. Most recommend treating this type of injury with the “RICE” method – rest, ice, compress, and elevate. Back pain can be treated using this method as well. Resting the muscles, using an ice pack, and keeping pressure off of the lower back (lie on your back with your feet elevated) can all help.