Published on: 7/4/2025
Why does my lower back hurt when I get up from sitting?
Lower back pain when getting up from sitting can be linked to how you sit or conditions like piriformis syndrome, which affects muscles near the hip.
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Explanation
When you sit for a long time, your lower back can start to hurt. This is because sitting puts pressure on your back muscles and spine. If your posture is not good, this can make the pain worse.
- Sitting Behavior: Sitting for a long time can cause your back muscles to get tired and sore. If you sit with your back bent or slouched, it can make the pain worse.
- Piriformis Syndrome: This happens when a muscle near your hip, called the piriformis, presses on a nerve. This can cause pain in your lower back and legs.
To help your back feel better, try to sit up straight and take breaks to move around. Stretching the muscles in your back and hips can also help reduce pain. If the pain continues, it might be a good idea to talk to a doctor.
(References)
- Papadopoulos EC, & Khan SN. (2004). Piriformis syndrome and low back pain. The Orthopedic clinics of North America, 15062719.
- Bontrup C, Taylor WR, Fliesser M, Visscher R, Green T, Wippert PM, & Zemp R. (2019). Low back pain and its relationship with sitting behaviour .... Applied ergonomics, 31422243.
- Cranfield KA, Buist RJ, Nandi PR, & Baranowski AP. (1997). The twelfth rib syndrome. Journal of pain and symptom management, 9114637.
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