Back pain is far more than a nuisance. Nearly 40% of U.S. adults suffer from back ache, according to the 2019 National Health Interview Survey. Lower-back pain is the second-most common cause of disability in U.S. adults.
Poor posture is a common culprit, says Matt Nichol , a Toronto-based strength and performance coach. But so is exercise. Lifting heavy weights might cause strain, when not done properly. And while a weak core can lead to back pain, so can performing hundreds of sit-ups in the quest for six-pack abs, he says.