Back Pain & Relationships
Back pain can have severe implications on daily quality of life, affecting various aspects of a person’s physical, emotional, and social well-being. Physically, chronic back pain can significantly hinder everyday activities that were once simple tasks. Bending to tie shoelaces, reaching for items on high shelves, or even standing for extended periods can become challenging and uncomfortable[1]. This constant discomfort can lead to a decrease in physical activity, potentially causing deconditioning and further exacerbating the pain, creating a vicious cycle of reduced mobility and increased discomfort[4].
Emotionally, the persistent nature of back pain can take a substantial toll on mental health. The constant struggle with pain and the uncertainty of improvement can lead to feelings of frustration, anxiety, and sadness[1]. Over time, this emotional distress may develop into more serious mental health issues such as depression, further impacting overall quality of life[2]. The emotional burden of chronic back pain can also contribute to lowered self-esteem, as individuals may feel defined by their pain and limited in their abilities to engage in activities they once enjoyed[2].
Back Pain ruins lives.
Socially, back pain can lead to significant isolation and strain on relationships. Many individuals with chronic back pain find themselves withdrawing from social activities and gatherings due to discomfort or fear of becoming a burden to others[1]. This social withdrawal can exacerbate feelings of depression and anxiety, creating a cycle of emotional distress and physical pain[4]. Additionally, back pain can affect work performance and attendance, potentially leading to financial stress and further impacting overall quality of life[5]. The combination of physical limitations, emotional distress, and social isolation can severely diminish a person’s overall sense of well-being and happiness[7].
Citations:
[1] https://orthorepair.com/blog/how-does-chronic-back-pain-impact-quality-of-life/
[2] https://coastalorthopedics.com/blog/how-back-pain-can-affect-your-quality-of-life/
[3] https://www.spinalbackrack.com/how-back-pain-affects-daily-life/
[4] https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6851039/
[5] https://socalbrainspine.com/blog/low-back-pain-on-daily-life/
[6] https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/low-back-pain
[7] https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10693836/
[8] https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/back-pain/low-back-pain
Dr. Lou Jacobs has been a chiropractor for over 23 years. His office in Portland, Maine has been serving the community for that time. Dr. Lou is licensed to perform acupuncture as a chiropractor with extensive additional training in Traditional Chinese Medicine. Dr. Lou is accepting new patients for spine, nerve and back issues. Dr. Lou is board certified in perinatal and pediatric chiropractic care. Dr. Lou works with everyone, he’s a family chiropractor who also specializes in the health and injuries of musicians and other performing artists. To reach Dr. Lou’s office, call 207-774-6251.