Effective strategies to prevent nonspecific back pain primarily include regular walking and swimming, rather than engaging in intense “muscle pumping” routines. This guidance was shared with socialbites.ca by a staff member of the First Moscow State Medical University, identified as Sechenov neurologist Alexey Isaikin.
Back discomfort can sometimes stem from identifiable illnesses affecting the spine, heart, stomach, or other organs. More often, however, it arises as nonspecific or primary back pain where no single source is readily apparent.
Isaikin explained that many nonspecific pains revolve around changes in the supporting structures of the spine rather than the muscles alone. For instance, discomfort in the area between the shoulder blades may relate to alterations in the joints where the ribs connect to the vertebrae, underscoring how small joint issues can manifest as upper back pain. This nuance helps explain why pinpointing a precise origin is not always straightforward in clinical practice.
The doctor noted that while locating an exact source can be challenging, it is often unnecessary. In the vast majority of cases, the clinical presentation of nonspecific back pain is similar across patients and is managed with a common treatment approach.
Standard management for nonspecific back pain typically involves non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, massage, and manual therapy. Importantly, prevention centers on movement rather than pushing the muscles through strenuous pumping exercises. A strong muscular corset is not a guaranteed shield against pain. The most beneficial in terms of back health are simple, low-impact activities such as daily walking and swimming, which support spinal alignment, improve circulation, and reduce stiffness. Isaikin emphasized that consistent, gentle activity can help maintain functional mobility without aggravating the spine, and that a person’s routine should be tailored to individual tolerance and needs.
There is also a note about the condition known as intervertebral hernia. Isaikin has discussed scenarios where it may respond to treatment options or require careful evaluation, but the emphasis remains on functional improvement, pain reduction, and maintaining a reasonable level of activity. The overarching message is that nonspecific back pain is common, manageable, and often improved through steady movement, appropriate therapy, and lifestyle adjustments aimed at supporting spinal health.