Individuals may not be aware that back discomfort/pain symptoms can be connected to not staying hydrated. When the body is dehydrated, it reduces the amount of fluid in the spinal discs making them smaller, resulting in decreased cushioning and support for the spine. The stress can lead to swelling, causing further back discomfort, even a herniated disc. Individuals that experience frequent back pain could find relief by increasing their H2O consumption.
Table of Contents
Physical activity and healthy nutrition are important for healthy living. However, individuals can forget the basic need for water, often resulting in dehydration. The body needs to maintain hydration levels to function correctly. Dehydration can cause the bodyβs fascia/connective tissue which supports every cell and organ, to lose lubrication that allows the muscles to move, slide, and glide smoothly, causing stiffness, and tangled knots/trigger points, making movement difficult and painful.
Even being a little dehydrated is not healthy. Studies have shown that losing 1-2% of body weight without replacing fluids causes thinking and memory problems. A 4% deficit causes headaches, irritability, and sleepiness. Physical work or working outdoors without proper hydration impairs muscle endurance and strength. Dehydration stresses the spine even more which can cause painful swelling and bulged discs. Chronic pain conditions can be worsened by dehydration. This includes:
Lack of water levels can lead to back pain because the discs between the vertebrae need fluid to cushion the bones. They begin to dry out when not properly hydrated, exacerbating back discomfort symptoms that could lead to similar symptoms in the neck or legs.
Other than back pain and discomfort, other symptoms of dehydration.
Caffeinated beverages β soft drinks, tea, and coffee count partly toward daily fluid intake. They do not dehydrate the body, but they can increase urination and are recommended not to be the primary source of liquids during the day.
Throughout the day, drink plenty of water and move around and stretch to circulate the H2O.
The Injury Medical Chiropractic and Functional Medicine Team can realign the spine and body to optimal function and assist in developing a nutrition plan to maintain health and wellness.
El-Sharkawy, Ahmed M et al. βAcute and chronic effects of hydration status on health.β Nutrition Reviews vol. 73 Suppl 2 (2015): 97-109. doi:10.1093/nutrit/nuv038
Johannaber, Kenneth, and Fadi A Fathallah. βSpinal disc hydration status during the simulated stooped posture.β Work (Reading, Mass.) vol. 41 Suppl 1 (2012): 2384-6. doi:10.3233/WOR-2012-0470-2384
Manz, Friedrich, and Andreas Wentz. βThe importance of good hydration for the prevention of chronic diseases.β Nutrition Reviews vol. 63,6 Pt 2 (2005): S2-5. doi:10.1111/j.1753-4887.2005.tb00150.x
Ritz, Patrick, and Gilles Berrut. βThe importance of good hydration for day-to-day health.β Nutrition Reviews vol. 63,6 Pt 2 (2005): S6-13. doi:10.1111/j.1753-4887.2005.tb00155.x
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The information herein on "Staying Hydrated Can Help Relieve Back Pain: EP Chiropractic" is not intended to replace a one-on-one relationship with a qualified health care professional or licensed physician and is not medical advice. We encourage you to make healthcare decisions based on your research and partnership with a qualified healthcare professional.
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Dr. Alex Jimenez DC, MSACP, RN*, CCST, IFMCP*, CIFM*, ATN*
email: coach@elpasofunctionalmedicine.com
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Dr. Alex Jimenez DC, MSACP, RN* CIFM*, IFMCP*, ATN*, CCST
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