Lower back pain affects many people, impacting how they go about their daily lives and their quality of life. Understanding how lower back pain limits mobility can help manage and mitigate its effects. Here are four ways lower back pain in Minnetonka, MN, can restrict movement and hinder your ability to perform routine tasks.
Muscle Weakness
Chronic lower back pain in Minnetonka, MN, can cause the muscles in your lower back and surrounding areas to weaken. This muscle weakness can lead to an imbalance in your body’s support system, making it harder to maintain proper posture and perform movements that require strength and stability. Weak muscles can also increase the risk of further injury, exacerbating mobility issues.
Gait Alterations
Pain in the lower back can significantly affect the way you walk. To avoid pain, you might unconsciously change your gait, leading to an uneven distribution of weight and strain on other parts of your body. These alterations can cause additional discomfort and further limit your mobility, making walking or standing for long periods particularly challenging.
Reduced Range of Motion
Lower back pain often leads to a decreased range of motion. Bending, twisting, and even standing up straight can become challenging. The stiffness and discomfort associated with back pain can make it difficult to perform simple movements, reducing your ability to engage in physical activities and maintain an active lifestyle.
Fear of Movement
The fear of aggravating lower back pain can lead to a cycle of inactivity. This fear can cause you to avoid certain movements or activities, reducing physical fitness and flexibility over time. Avoiding movement can also result in muscle atrophy and joint stiffness, further limiting your mobility and increasing the severity of back pain.
Contact Twin Cities Pain Clinic to consult a physician about lower back pain in Minnetonka, MN.
