Common Causes of Lower Back Pain: Posture, Sleep, Diet

You have bad posture

Anytime you slouch or stoop, your back muscles and ligaments strain to keep you balanced, which can cause stress on the back, Khelemsky says. When standing, make sure your shoulders are back, your stomach is pulled in, and your feet are about shoulder-width apart. If you have to stand for a while, shift your body weight from your toes to your heels (or vice versa) and/or from foot to foot. When sitting, keep your feet flat on the floor, with your thighs parallel to them, legs uncrossed. If your chair can’t support your lower back, place a small pillow behind it. Not sure you’re doing it correctly? Check your sideview in a mirror, or consider seeing a physical therapist or occupational therapist for a consult.

You ramp up activity too quickly

“If you go on a week-long golf vacation and your balls have been gathering dust in storage for the last 10 years, you’re asking for trouble,” Press says. Even if you’re in decent physical shape, just the twisting and turning involved in certain activities like golf can cause back strain. “Your spine and back muscles are less forgiving than when you were younger, so you need to make sure your body is prepared for the load put on it,” adds Press. Whether you're headed for a golf, tennis or yoga outing, fit in some practice time a few weeks ahead.