Common causes and management of back pain and muscle tension

Back pain is a leading cause of global disability, affecting approximately eight out of ten people during their lifetime. Most cases are classified as non-specific low back pain, often caused by muscle strain, poor posture, or psychosocial factors, rather than structural issues like herniated discs or spinal stenosis.

Muscle tension and involuntary contractions, such as cramps and spasms, can stem from various sources. While electrolyte imbalances involving magnesium, potassium, sodium, and calcium are often cited, research indexed on PubMed suggests that supplementation does not always resolve idiopathic nocturnal cramps in adults. Other contributing factors include physical exertion without proper warm-ups, sedentary lifestyles, stress, anxiety, and sleep disturbances. In some instances, persistent tension may involve smooth muscle regulation in internal organs or indicate underlying neurological or rheumatological conditions.