It is well established that being overweight or obese increases the chances of experiencing low back pain. With that in mind, it makes sense to view weight loss as a treatment for back pain. However, rapid weight loss can cause back pain in a number of ways.
Malnutrition
Fast weight loss diets often revolve around the principle of ketosis, where the body burns its fat due to a decreased supply of sugars it receives to burn. Low-carb diets fall into this category. By cutting out grains and fruits, you will lose some of the nutrients you normally get. The whole body is affected by malnutrition; the muscles will not be able to function properly and may spasm or become weak, causing them to tense easily.
If your diet restricts certain food groups, you should take supplements to make sure your body gets the nutrients it needs. Look for diets like Ideal Protein that take steps to make up for nutrient loss.
Dehydration
Low-carb diets like Atkins and Zone are diuretic diets; increase water loss to lose weight fast. If you’re not informed or educated, it’s easy to become dehydrated while following one of these diets.
The body is made up of approximately 70% water. Spinal discs rely on water to maintain height and their ability to absorb shock. Dehydration reduces the fluids available to the spinal discs, which could lead to rapid disc degeneration, bulging, or herniation. Muscles also need fluids to receive and absorb electrolytes. When dehydrated, muscles begin to cramp.
If you want to follow a low-carb diet, make sure your plan includes instructions on water intake.
loss of muscle tone
Some people looking for quick weight loss plans with low calorie intake are told to avoid strenuous activities like exercise for a while as the body is adjusting to less fuel. Being sedentary can cause a rapid loss of muscle tone. The muscles of the lower back and abdomen are meant to work together to support the upper body and the alignment of the spine. As these muscles soften, posture can suffer. Various muscles in the back, neck, and shoulders become sore and tight due to poor posture.
over-exercise
Some people’s weight loss plans include regular, high-intensity exercise to help burn fat. If you are consuming fewer calories and burning more, you may be putting your health at risk.
Your body needs calories for energy and repair. If you’re working your muscles harder and giving them less fuel to work with, you’re more susceptible to strains. Also, not getting enough rest for muscles to heal is a cause of back pain among dieters. Intense workouts should not be done daily.
gallstones
Although the exact reason for this is unknown, diets that are very low in fat and/or calories can impair gallbladder function. This organ helps the liver in the digestion of fats. A limited supply of fat is thought to prevent the gallbladder from contracting and releasing bile regularly, which could lead to stone development as substances in the bile stagnate and harden.
Gallstones and bile retention cause the gallbladder to become inflamed. Since it is located in close proximity to the muscles of the lower back and abdomen on the right side, inflammation of the organ can cause radiating pain in the back and stomach.
Warning: if the weight loss is unexplained
If you are losing weight without dieting and have back pain, this could be a sign of a serious medical condition. Cancerous spinal tumors can cause weight loss, changes in appetite, fatigue, back pain, vomiting, fever, and/or neurological problems. If you are unexpectedly losing weight, seek medical attention.
For some people, losing weight quickly is a must. For others, it is a choice. Reaching a healthy weight is a goal that should be pursued for the sake of your back and for your quality and length of life. Be careful with crash diets. Look for plans that pay attention to nutritional requirements and hydration. If you experience back pain while on a fast weight loss diet, it could be a sign that your body isn’t getting what it needs or that you’re exercising too much.
Don’t let back pain get in the way of your weight loss goal. Choosing the right diet will ensure that you lose weight quickly and safely. If possible, consult with a trusted health professional about your diet plan.