Spinal column in body

The Dangers of Prolonged Rest For People With Lower Back Pain

Cheyne Thompson General Health, Joint Injury, Lifestyle Health

If you’re like most people, all you want to do is sit or lie down after the onset of lower back pain. In some cases, it may be a good idea to rest for a day or two—but read on to learn more about the dangers of prolonged rest for people with lower back pain.

There are numerous structures in your spine that may be the cause of your lower back pain. Contact our office to identify the cause of your issue.Cheyne Thompson

Weight gain and lower back pain

A number of large muscles work together around your lumbar spine (lower back) to provide support and assist with various types of movements. These include your extensor, flexor, and oblique muscles—and if you injure one of these lower back muscles a few days of rest can promote healing.

However, prolonged rest past 48 hours can cause your lower back muscles to atrophy (at a rate of 1 to 1.5 percent per day). So if you rest for too long, your weakening muscles may not be able to adequately support your spine—which can cause lower back pain and lead to other kinds of lower back injuries.

Lower back muscles and prolonged rest

As you likely know, prolonged periods of inactivity can lead to weight gain. This is no trivial matter, as people who are overweight are more likely to experience back pain, joint strain, and muscle strain.

In part, your excessive weight can lead to added lowerbackrelated problems by pulling your pelvis forward, which places stress on your lower back. In addition, people who are overweight are more likely to suffer a herniated disc injury, which can cause lower back pain and sciatica symptoms.

Another danger posed by weight gain is an increased risk for complications and infections following surgery. So if you are awaiting surgery for a lower back problem, it is best to remain active.

Additional dangers of prolonged rest

In addition to dangers directly related to your lower back, prolonged rest may lead to any of the following complications:

  • Cardiopulmonary deconditioning (at a rate of up to a 15 percent loss in 10 days)
  • Decrease in bone density
  • Increased risk of blood clots

Of course, the above list is not exhaustive—but it provides more than enough reasons to avoid prolonged rest after the onset of your lower back pain.

It’s important to keep moving after the onset of your lower back pain. So if your pain is severe, talk with us about creative solutions to help you stay active—such as water therapy.

Cheyne Thompson

Author: Cheyne Thompson

Cheyne graduated from Sydney College of Chiropractic and Osteopathy in 1984. She also has postgraduate qualifications in paediatric chiropractic care. Before joining Clayfield Chiropractic Clinic in 1993, Cheyne enjoyed seven years in a Sydney based practice. Cheyne has three children and 2 grandchildren.