Extra Weight & Back Pain
/With the holiday season upon us, most people are earning their “winter coat” from all the sweets and overeating. If you were a bear, a few extra pounds would be great in the winter. It would keep you warm and you would just sleep it all off.
Unfortunately we are not bears and a few extra pounds of weight can cause extra strain on the body.
Most people may think that when we pack on a few extra pounds and that's it. I don't know about everyone else, but if I'm carrying an extra 10-20 or more pounds, I don't stay the same shape and size. Most people carry their extra weight in their midsection. When this happens it offsets their center of gravity. The same thing happens when women get pregnant.
In order to not fall forward because of the excess weight the body will naturally compensate. This usually involves arching backwards in the lower back, excessive tightening of the back muscles to keep you upright, or a combination of both. When this happens, there is an extra added stress in your lower back which usually results in an increase or worsening of symptoms.
This holiday season and for the future enjoy the sweets and delicious food, but maintain healthy eating habits and exercise routines to keep your body in tip top shape. Doing so gives your body the best chance at staying pain and symptom free.
