Why Does My Back Hurt When Sitting Up Straight, and What Can Be Done to Improve Posture-Related Pain?

When your back hurts while sitting up straight, it can be due to a few different reasons. Often, if you have a chair or desk setup that doesn’t support your lower back (lumbar area) properly, sitting upright can put extra strain on your back muscles. Weak core muscles may also make it harder for your body to hold a good posture, leading to discomfort. In other words, if the muscles that support your spine aren’t strong enough, you might experience pain when trying to sit straight. To ease this pain, consider improving your workspace ergonomics. Use a chair with good lumbar support, or add a cushion to maintain the natural curve of your back. It’s also helpful to take frequent breaks from sitting so you can stand, move, or stretch to relieve muscle tension. Additionally, exercises that strengthen your core and back can help build better support over time. Simple stretches, gentle yoga, or guidance from a physical therapist can make a big difference. If your pain continues, make an appointment with a healthcare professional for personalized advice and treatment ideas.