Fact Checked
Skateboarding causes low back pain because it absorbs all the impact during falls and landing. Low back pain can be caused by different types of injuries and can be prevented by proper stretching and strengthening exercises.
Causes of low back pain
- Poor posture during the forward movement where there is a need to bend the trunk and upper legs in V shape places plenty of strain in the lower back. Overuse can cause the muscles to spasm and trigger pain when used.
- Landing hard on surfaces on the feet or buttocks where the impact is transmitted to the spine. This can result to a slipped vertebra that can cause severe back pain.
Treatment
- Take plenty of rest and avoid performing activities that cause pain. Perform gentle exercises such as walking and climbing stairs to increase flow of blood and loosen any irritated spinal joints or nerves.
- Apply an ice pack on the affected area for at least 10-15 minutes every hour. The cold temperature numbs the pain and lessens the inflammation. Avoid applying the pack directly on the skin to prevent further damage and worsen the condition.
Take plenty of rest and avoid performing activities that cause pain. - Wrap the cold pack using an elastic bandage and compress it against the lower back to prevent buildup of inflammation.
- Apply moist heat to increase the blood circulation, relax muscle tension and other soft tissues. Moist heat in the form of microwavable herbal bags infused with relaxing aromatherapy such as lavender. Another alternative is soaking the back in warm Epsom salt bath for at least 20 minutes a few times every day until the symptoms settle. Epsom salt has magnesium which lessens the swelling and relaxes the muscles. Avoid using hot water to prevent scalding of the skin.
- Take the prescribed over-the-counter non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS) such as ibuprofen, naproxen and aspirin to lessen lower back pain and inflammation. Another option is applying cream or gel that has acetaminophen or analgesics such as capsaicin and menthol to relieve low back pain.
- Massage the lower back for at least 30 minutes to relax the muscle spasms, lessen the inflammation and relax the affected area. Drink plenty of water after the massage to flush out inflammatory by-products from the body. Another alternative is rolling a tennis ball on the lower back for at least 15 minutes a few times every day until the pain disappears.
Tips
- Learn the basic skill of skateboarding especially how to stop properly and using protective equipment.
- Avoid using headphones while skateboarding
- Keep the skateboard in proper working condition
- Wear proper protective equipment such as helmet, wrist guards, knee and elbow pads and shoes.
Disclaimer / More Information
The material posted on this page on low back pain is for learning purposes only. Learn to recognize and manage back injuries and issues in skateboarding by taking a first aid and CPR class with one of our training providers.
FACT CHECK
https://www.healthline.com/symptom/low-back-pain
https://www.webmd.com/back-pain/ss/slideshow-low-back-pain-overview