By: K. Rad Payman on February 25, 2016
Is Working Out Hurting My Back and Neck?
Back and neck pain often occurs quickly -- especially after lifting heavy objects or bending awkwardly -- so it is probably no surprise that many people experience back or neck pain when exercising, working out or participating in sports, especially when starting new types of activities. "In some cases, this pain is the only sign that something may be wrong," says Rad Payman, M.D., a board certified spine surgeon. For others, additional problems such as leg pain, weakness and numbness may occur. If your workout seems to be causing or adding to your back or neck pain, it is important to understand the reasons you may be experiencing this, and when to see your doctor.
What Causes Back and Neck Pain During Exercise?
Most back pain that occurs after exercising is muscular, although structural problems in the spine and neck can also lead to back pain during and after working out. This type of pain is much more problematic, and may require treatment. Causes may include a herniated disc or degenerative disc disease. Of course, you may also injure yourself while working out. Injuries to the spine and the soft tissues that support the spine are not uncommon during exercising or participating in sports. In fact, some spine health professionals suggest as many as 20 percent of all sports injuries affect the neck or lower back.
How Do Damaged Discs Cause Workout Pain?
Between every vertebra is a disc that serves as a sort of shock absorber. High-impact exercises such as running, dancing and aerobics send shocks up the spine with every step. This repetitive impact can cause intense pain if there is a herniated or otherwise damaged disc.
Consistent lower back pain after this type of workout could be a sign of either disc damage or degenerative disc disease. It is a good idea to see a spine specialist in order to evaluate your condition and determine if treatment is necessary.
How Do Spinal Injuries Occur During Workouts?
There are three areas of the spine that may be hurt during a workout: the neck, the upper back and the lower back. Neck injuries are most common during contact sports, although previous damage may cause symptoms during a typical workout.
The upper back, known as the thoracic spine, is not injured as frequently as the neck or lower back. However, muscle strains may occur in the muscles the surround the spine and cause pain. This is most likely to occur in weight training exercises that require rotation, or sports that require a rotation of the torso.
The lower back is the area most prone to injury in the gym, and also the area most likely to have previous disc damage that causes pain during a workout. Injuries to the lower part of the spine may occur during:
• High-impact exercise
• Exercises that require twisting at the waist
• Weightlifting and other similar activities
How Can I Deal With Back or Neck Pain During or After Physical Activity?
If back or neck pain lasts for more than two to three weeks, it is a good idea to see a spine specialist to ensure you do not have disc damage or other spinal injury. If you have other symptoms such as sciatica, you may want to talk to your doctor sooner.
Your doctor will most likely modify your workout routine to include exercises that aim to strengthen your back. This is key in helping you heal, as well as in reducing the chances of a recurrence in the future. Visit www.TheSpineMD.com and call 818-501-2001 for more information.
For an appointment or consultation with Dr. K. Rad Payman, please
