How can Obesity affect Back pain, and Siatica Nerve

Back pain is one of the most common problems related to obesity. With overweight, the pains and problems in the lower back may become worse. When a person gains weight, the spine is compelled to absorb this additional load, which can cause damage (injuries, sciatica ...).
This is the case, for example, people with excess weight situated at the stomach. This excess weight "pulls" the pelvis forward and creates back pain.

Identifying the need to lose weight

Body mass index (BMI) is a measurement commonly used by doctors. It's a mathematical formula (BMI = kg / m2) involves dividing weight by height squared of a person.

Despite the debate over the precise meaning of measures of body mass index, a person with a BMI over 30 is considered obese, while a person with a BMI between 25 and 29.9 is considered overweight. 18.5 to 24.9 the weight of the person is normal and below 18.5, we talk about underweight.

In addition to BMI calculation, it is essential to identify the areas where excess fats are the most important. For example, a person with excess fat in the abdomen is more likely to have health problems such as back pain.

Physical activity, the remedy against back pain

Scientific studies are unanimous, lack of exercise is a major cause of back pain. Conversely, a daily exercise program will help reduce back pain and effectively reduce future periods of back pain.

Exercises are the only way to promote blood circulation that distributes nutrients into tissues, in discs, and around the spine. This exchange of nutrients through exercise keeps muscles, discs, joints and ligaments of the spine healthy.

Following periods of severe back pain or surgery, most patients tend to overprotect their backs and not to make exercises. In most cases, the exercises relieve much pain than inactivity or the remains bedridden. Rest in bed is only required for a short time (1 or 2 days) after an episode of severe pain.

Weight loss

From the time the patient identified with his doctor if  he needs to lose weight or not, he is ready to start an exercise program and a diet to reach the objective fixed with his doctor .

The Doctor, as a health professional, will develop an appropriate program which takes into account the back pain and the patient's back problems.

When the patient begins to perform exercises to strengthen his back and lose weight, he should be aware that this may be painful physically. Nevertheless, we must remain vigilant against the pain when performing the exercises and report to his physician any severe pain.

It is indispensable to do this work with a health care professional in order to properly follow the development of the patient's health.

Carefully start

The beginning of the weight loss program should be done carefully with low-impact exercises such as walking or water aerobics. This allows the patient, who has not practiced for a long time  sport, put it quietly and without forcing the muscles, the joints and back. Usually exercises too painful on earth are more easily tolerated in the water. Moreover, the risk of injury is significantly reduced.