The mistake that worsens back pain and everyone makes after 50

From the age of 50, the body begins to show the cumulative effects of years of exertion, poor posture, and unhealthy habits. One of the most common ailments is back pain, a discomfort that can become a real limitation to daily activities.

However, many people unknowingly adopt a practice that, instead of alleviating the problem, further aggravates it .

In this article we tell you what that common mistake is and what to do to avoid it.

The most common mistake: resting too much.

When back pain appears, the first reaction is often complete rest . Many people believe that staying in bed or completely avoiding movement will allow their back to recover. This behavior, while seemingly logical, can actually worsen the situation .

The human body is designed to move. When you remain immobile for long periods, your muscles weaken, your joints become stiffer, and circulation decreases, hindering recovery. Furthermore, lack of movement can lead to poor posture, which further contributes to pain.

In other words: prolonged rest immobilizes more than it cures .

Why does pain worsen with rest?

1. Muscle atrophy: By not using the back and abdominal muscles, they lose strength, which reduces their ability to support the spine.
2. Decreased flexibility: Lack of movement causes tendons and ligaments to tighten, leading to stiffness and further discomfort.
3. Worst posture: Spending a lot of time in bed or sitting leads to unnatural postures that directly affect the spine.
4. Emotional impact: Prolonged inactivity can generate anxiety or depression, conditions that increase the perception of pain.

What should you do instead?

Although each case is different and it is always advisable to consult a doctor, in most cases the key is to maintain a moderate level of physical activity :

1. Walk daily:

Walking is a gentle, low-impact exercise that helps improve circulation, activate back muscles, and release tension. Ten to fifteen minutes a day can make a big difference.

2. Stretching exercises:

Practicing gentle stretches guided by a physiotherapist can improve flexibility and reduce pressure on the intervertebral discs.

3. Strengthen the core:

The “core” is the group of muscles in the abdomen, lower back, and pelvis. Strengthening this area helps to naturally support the spine, reducing the effort it exerts with each movement.

4. Take care of your posture:

Avoiding slouching while sitting, keeping your shoulders relaxed, and sleeping on a good mattress can significantly relieve discomfort.

5. Apply heat or cold as appropriate:

Cold helps reduce inflammation in the first few hours of pain, while heat is useful for relaxing tense muscles days later.

Final recommendation:

After 50, the body requires attention, but not immobility. The mistake of remaining completely inactive for fear of pain only delays recovery. Listening to your body, moving with caution, and maintaining a suitable exercise routine are essential for preventing and relieving back pain .

If the pain persists, worsens, or is accompanied by other symptoms, don’t hesitate to consult a specialist. Prevention and early treatment can make a significant difference in your quality of life.