Published on: 7/4/2025
Why does my lower back pain worsen when standing up straight?
Lower back pain can get worse when standing up straight due to how your body moves and holds itself, or because of changes in the spine after surgery.
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Explanation
Lower back pain when standing up straight can be linked to how your body moves and the way you hold your posture. Research shows that standing for a long time can make back pain worse, especially if your posture is not balanced.
Reasons for Pain:
- Prolonged Standing: Standing for a long time can cause discomfort in the lower back. Your muscles and joints may get tired, leading to pain.
- Posture and Movement: How you stand and move can affect your back. If your posture is not aligned, it can strain your back muscles.
- Spinal Changes: If you have had back surgery, like spinal fusion, it can change the shape of your spine. This might lead to a condition called flatback, making standing up straight uncomfortable.
Understanding these factors can help you manage your back pain better. It's important to pay attention to your posture and take breaks from standing for too long.
(References)
- Marshall PW, Romero R, & Brooks C. (2014). Pain reported during prolonged standing is associated with .... Experimental brain research, 25059911.
- Wernli K, O'Sullivan P, Smith A, Campbell A, & Kent P. (2020). Movement, posture and low back pain. How do they relate? .... European journal of pain (London, England), 32621351.
- Lagrone MO, Bradford DS, Moe JH, Lonstein JE, Winter RB, & Ogilvie JW. (1988). Treatment of symptomatic flatback after spinal fusion. The Journal of bone and joint surgery. American volume, 3356724.
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