Back pain is a common ailment, but its being common doesn't make it normal. It is a health issue that can be caused by many things, including some things that you might not suspect as contributing to your back pain. Here are three surprising causes of back pain.

Crunches

Crunches, which many people take up to get defined abs, may increase your risk for back pain. It is normal to feel some physical discomfort if you are just starting physical exercise, but the pain should disappear after a short while. If the pain doesn't dissipate, then it may be contributing to or worsening your back pain. This may happen because the repetitive motions of the back put immense pressure on your spinal ligaments and discs.

Modifying your crunches, for example, by switching to partial instead of full crunches, might help. You may also switch to alternative exercises and enjoy the same benefits. Consult a physiotherapist for suggestions of alternative exercises.

Stress

Doctors have also unearthed a link between back pain and stress. For example, those who are too stressed tend to tense their bodies. Tensed back muscles can lead to or aggravate existing lower back pain. To make matters worse, you may soon begin to stress over your back pain, which will make it even worse. The result is a vicious circle of stress and back pain that can be difficult to break. Therefore, if you have stress-related back pain, you have to deal with the stress to end the back pain too.

Diet

The food you eat or don't eat can also contribute to your back pain. Inflammation is a known cause of back pain, and some foods increase your risk of developing inflammation. Therefore, avoiding such foods and instead eating anti-inflammatory foods can reduce your back pain.

For example, foods rich in omega-3s, such as sardines and tuna, are good for lowering your risks of inflammation. At the same time, foods rich in saturated fats, such as fried foods and white bread, increase your risk of inflammation and back pain.

Hopefully, your back pain will be short lived and mild. In such cases, avoiding strenuous activity might be all you need to recover. However, if your back pain is moderate to severe, consult your doctor to have it diagnosed and treated. Depending on the cause and severity of your pain, an orthopedist, such as one from Omaha Orthopedic Clinic & Sports Medicine PC, might prescribe medication, physiotherapy, surgical intervention, or a combination of treatments to get rid of your back pain.