Published on: 7/4/2025
Why does my lower back pain go away when sitting?
Lower back pain may go away when sitting because this position can reduce pressure on certain parts of the spine, especially in conditions like spinal stenosis.
Explanation
When you sit down, the position can help reduce pressure on your spine. This is because sitting can open up spaces in the spine that might be narrowed, especially if you have a condition like spinal stenosis.
How Sitting Helps:
Spinal Stenosis: Spinal stenosis is a condition where the spaces in the spine get smaller, putting pressure on the nerves. Sitting can help by opening up these spaces, which might reduce pain.
Discogenic Pain: Some back pain comes from the discs between the bones in your spine. Sitting can change the pressure on these discs, sometimes making the pain better.
Position Change: Simply changing positions can sometimes help relieve pain, as it gives different parts of your back a break from pressure.
It's important to remember that if you have ongoing back pain, it's a good idea to talk to a healthcare provider to understand what's causing your pain and how to treat it.
(References)
- Maigne JY, Lapeyre E, Morvan G, & Chatellier G. (2003). Pain immediately upon sitting down and relieved by .... Spine, 12811279.
- Goldman SM, Funk JD, & Christensen VM. (1997). Spinal stenosis. A common cause of podiatric symptoms. Journal of the American Podiatric Medical Association, 9086718.
- Mayer HM. (2001). Discogenic low back pain and degenerative lumbar spinal .... Schmerz (Berlin, Germany), 11793155.
Tell your friends about us.
We would love to help them too.
For First Time Users
What is Ubie’s Doctor’s Note?
We provide a database of explanations from real doctors on a range of medical topics. Get started by exploring our library of questions and topics you want to learn more about.
Learn more about symptoms
Learn more about diseases
Was this page helpful?
Purpose and positioning of servicesUbie Doctor's Note is a service for informational purposes. The provision of information by physicians, medical professionals, etc. is not a medical treatment. If medical treatment is required, please consult your doctor or medical institution. We strive to provide reliable and accurate information, but we do not guarantee the completeness of the content. If you find any errors in the information, please contact us.