A common reason your back may hurt is from bad posture while seated. Sitting in a slouched or hunched over position can put strain on the discs, the fluid filled cushions that protect the vertebrae from rubbing together.

This may be worsened by an underlying medical condition. Conditions Treated Let’s explore the possible causes of back pain you feel while you’re sitting, standing, working or even walking and what you can do about it.

Posture

Bad posture while either sitting or standing can contribute to lower back pain. Slouching forward too much or leaning too far back can create problems. Even if your back pain isn’t caused by poor posture, it can be made worse by it.

Not being in shape

Your core muscles include the ones on your sides and in your back, hips, abdomen, and buttocks. If these are weak, they may not be supporting your spine well enough, leading to pain.

Stretching and aerobic exercise can go a long way toward helping strengthen your core. This should lessen your discomfort by reducing the degree of strain on your back.

Better Posture Better Health

It’s likely your parents or teachers cautioned you to sit up straight when you were a child, and with good reason.

Sitting in one position too long isn’t healthy. Doing it with your back rounded forward, slumped to one side, or leaning too far back can put stress on parts of your spine for an extended period. This can lead to pain, as well as other issues.

To help you sit straighter, position your body along an imaginary straight line extending the length of your back, out of your head, and up to the ceiling. Keep your shoulders level and don’t let your pelvis rotate forward. Doing so causes a curve in your lower back.

If you sit up perfectly straight, you’ll feel the small of your back stretch and lengthen.