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Common Causes For Back Pain

By Dr. Brian McDonough, Medical Editor

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - Back pain is one of the most common reasons why people go to see the doctor. In fact, each year the diagnosis code for acute back pain is one of the leaders. The good news is that most people with acute back pain actually get better in a few weeks and don't require surgery or greater intervention. So, what is the cause?

In most cases it is an acute back spasm, which is the result of overuse or what is called a weak core. If a person is overweight and has weak abdominal musculature it puts extra pressure on the back musculature.

There is a good chance many of you who are reading this report have had this problem and a significant percentage will find yourself in this position.

The best protection is strengthening the abdominal muscles and to stretch on a regular basis.

Finally, be careful when you are lifting weight over thirty pounds that you bend at the knees and don't put the pressure on your low back.

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