Why You May Experience
Back Pain When Coughing

Causes of Back Pain When Coughing

Several factors can contribute to back pain when you cough, including:

• Muscle Strain: Coughing intensely or frequently can strain your back muscles, leading to pain and muscle spasms.
• Herniated Disc: A herniated or slipped disc occurs when the cushioning disc between your vertebrae protrudes, irritating nearby spinal nerves and causing pain that can worsen with coughing. Sciatic nerve compression is one example of this.
• Spinal Stenosis: This condition involves the narrowing of spaces within your spine, which can put pressure on the nerve roots. Coughing can intensify this pressure and lead to increased discomfort.
• Other Conditions: Conditions like osteoporosis, arthritis, lung cancer, or even infections can cause back pain that is aggravated by coughing.

Managing and Preventing Back Pain at Home

There are several strategies you can employ at home to manage and prevent back pain associated with coughing. These include the following:

• Practice Good Posture: Maintaining proper posture can reduce the strain on your back muscles and spine. Ensure that your workstation is ergonomically set up and avoid slouching.
• Strengthen Your Core: Exercises that strengthen your abdominal and back muscles can provide better support for your spine, reducing the risk of pain.
• Stay Active: Regular physical activity can keep your back muscles strong and flexible, preventing stiffness and muscle tension.
• Use Proper Coughing Techniques: Try not to hunch over when you cough. Maintaining a natural arch will be more comfortable. A lumbar support can provide additional help.
• Apply Heat or Cold: Use heat packs to relax tense muscles or an ice pack to reduce inflammation and numb the pain.
• Pain Relief: Over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help relieve pain and reduce inflammation. Additionally, transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) can be used to manage chronic back pain.

When to Seek Medical Attention

While home remedies can be effective, it’s important to know when to seek medical attention. You should see a doctor if:

• Symptoms persist for more than a few weeks.
• The pain is severe and doesn’t improve with home treatments.
• You experience additional symptoms of severe nerve compression, like numbness, tingling, or weakness in your legs.
• You have a history of osteoporosis, arthritis, or other chronic conditions.
• The pain is accompanied by unexplained weight loss, muscle spasms, or fever.

At OrthoNeuro, our team of experts is equipped to diagnose and treat various causes of back pain, ensuring you receive the best possible care.

Treating Both Your Back and Your Cough

Effective treatment involves addressing both the back pain and the cough. You can help a chronic cough by staying hydrated, using a humidifier, and avoiding irritants like smoke. Ensuring your overall health and well-being can significantly reduce the occurrence and impact of back pain when you cough.

At OrthoNeuro, we treat back pain using a multi-disciplinary team of surgeons, interventional pain management specialists, and physical therapists. Our treatment plans are tailored to each individual, addressing the underlying cause of back pain.

Schedule an Appointment Today

By understanding the connection between coughing and back pain, you can take proactive steps to manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life. Don’t let back pain control your life—schedule an appointment with us today at OrthoNeuro to start your journey toward relief. We have multiple locations throughout Columbus, OH, for your convenience. 

Medically reviewed by Larry T. Todd, DO