Back pain.
Many people wonder, “Can lack of sex cause back pain?” This question, often discussed in hushed tones, sparks curiosity about the relationship between sexual activity and back health.
While sexual activity can influence overall well-being, attributing back pain solely to a lack of sex oversimplifies the issue.
Sexual activity is a form of physical exercise that engages various muscle groups, depending on positions. It also triggers the release of “happy hormones” like oxytocin and endorphins.
Oxytocin, often called the “love hormone,” surges during physical affection, such as kissing. Endorphins, the body’s natural pain relievers, increase during rewarding activities like sex, exercise, or eating.
These hormones can temporarily alleviate back pain by acting as natural painkillers, offering relief and relaxation.
Root causes
However, this relief is often short-lived. Relying on sex as a primary pain management strategy is unsustainable, much like overusing painkillers. The body may adapt to these hormonal boosts, reducing their effectiveness over time. Additionally, if back pain stems from underlying issues, sex may mask symptoms without addressing the root cause, potentially worsening the condition.
A 2008 Spine Universe survey in the US found that 76 percent of adults experience back pain annually and 85 percent face it at some point in their lives. A quarter of the respondents described their back pain as severe or disabling, while 72 percent of them reported reduced sexual frequency due to back pain.
These findings highlight the fact that back pain often leads to less frequent and less satisfying sex, as individuals may fear aggravating their condition or slipping a disc during intimacy. If back pain is affecting your sex life, it’s worth considering whether the pain itself, rather than a lack of sex, is the core issue.
Effective solutions
To address back pain effectively, identifying its cause is crucial. Only five percent of back pain cases stem from diseases, congenital factors, or injuries. The vast majority—95 percent—are mechanical, resulting from issues with the spine’s structures, such as muscles, ligaments, tendons, nerves, or discs.
Common contributors include prolonged sitting or standing, improper lifting of heavy objects, poor mattress quality or sleeping posture, unsupportive shoes, and overexertion during exercise or certain sexual positions. Obesity is also a culprit, as excess weight adds pressure to the spine.
Rather than relying on frequent sex to manage back pain, addressing its mechanical causes is key. Consulting a physical therapist can help identify the root issue and develop a tailored treatment plan.
By treating the underlying cause of back pain, you can improve your overall quality of life, including intimacy. Regular physical therapy, proper posture, and lifestyle adjustments can reduce pain and enhance mobility, allowing for a more satisfying sex life without fear of injury.
Ms Nthiga works at Chiropractic & Physiotherapy Health Centre in Nairobi
