Why women are more prone to back pain than men
Written by: Liz Wullems-Griffioen, CMO Healactively
Reviewed by: Noah Köppel, Physiotherapist (Kantonsspital Winterthur, Switzerland) and Research Associate (Eastern Switzerland University of Applied Sciences - OST)
Although back pain is a common ailment affecting millions of people worldwide, women are statistically more prone to experiencing back pain than men. Understanding the factors influencing this can help women understand why back pain may be more prevalent or distinct in nature for them and highlight the importance of tailored approaches to back wellness focused specifically on requirements for females.
Hormonal Influences
Hormones play a significant role in the health of the female spine. Fluctuations in hormone levels, particularly estrogen, can affect the ligaments and joints around the spine. During periods of significant hormonal changes such as menstruation, pregnancy, and menopause, women may experience increased joint laxity. This can lead to a higher likelihood of sprains, strains, and general discomfort in the back.
During pregnancy, the body produces the hormone relaxin, which allows ligaments in the pelvis to relax and the joints to become looser in preparation for childbirth. However, this relaxation can also lead to instability in the spine, contributing to pain or discomfort. Additionally, the added weight and the shift in the center of gravity during pregnancy can put further strain on the back, exacerbating potential issues.
Menopause is another stage in a woman’s life where hormonal changes can impact back health. Decreased estrogen levels can lead to a reduction in bone density, increasing the risk of osteoporosis and vertebral fractures, which can be a source of chronic back pain.
Life Stages and Back Health
The various life stages unique to women, such as pregnancy and menopause, not only bring about hormonal changes but also present physical and emotional challenges that can affect the spine. For instance, the weight gain and postural adjustments during pregnancy can lead to a strain on the back muscles and spinal discomfort. After childbirth, the process of caring for a newborn—such as frequent bending and lifting—can further strain the back if not done with proper form.
Menopause, with its potential for osteoporosis, emphasizes the importance of bone health in preventing back pain. Engaging in regular physical activity, including weight-bearing and resistance exercises, becomes crucial during this stage to maintain bone density and muscle strength.
Strategies for Back Wellness
Understanding the unique challenges faced by the female spine is the first step towards effective prevention and management of back pain. It is essential for women to engage in regular physical activity that includes strength training and flexibility exercises tailored to enhancing back health.
During life stages such as pregnancy, women should seek guidance on specific exercises that can support back health, as well as techniques for safe lifting and bending. Post-menopause, maintaining an active lifestyle with a focus on bone health can help mitigate the risk of osteoporosis-related back issues.
Healactively Self-Assessment
To support women in their journey towards optimal back health, Healactively offers a comprehensive self-assessment for a personalized back wellness program which is expert-supported and evidence-based, so that women can take proactive steps towards maintaining a healthy, pain-free back throughout their lives.