Well+Good reports that according to a June 2023 analysis in The Lancet Rheumatology, a staggering 619 million people across the world experienced  low back pain in 2020 (the latest date available), making it the leading cause of disability. Luckily, the solution to the problem rarely involves going under the knife. Treatment typically revolves around simple interventions, like doing some of the best back stretches.

Amanda Robotti, PT, DPT, OCS, physical therapist at HSS discusses the causes of lower back pain and the best stretches to help provide relief. 

There are a few different things that can lead to lower back tightness. The most common one these days is a desk job, according to Robotti. “The human body wasn't designed to sit for eight, nine, 10 hours a day,” she explained. Yet many of us don’t have any other choice. That habitual posture can lead some muscles to become tight and short, and other ones to weaken.

A core that’s not as strong as it should be can also put extra strain on your back. There could also be something going on further up in your middle or upper back that’s causing your low back to tighten up in response. “If a muscle is overworked because it's not supported by its teammates in the area, that could contribute to tightness,” said Robotti.

Read the full article at wellandgood.com.