Sex and back pain
Did you know that there are studies that look into the implications chronic low back pain has on sex?
Studies have found that frequency of sex decreases 34-84% in males and 48-73% percent of women with low back pain. Sexual activity is considered an indicator for quality of life, yet it’s hardly spoken about.
How to help yourself
People suffering with low back pain might notice that they have certain movements they struggle with more than others, most commonly you may be what we call “flexion intolerant” - think pain when putting shoes/socks one, gardening, hoovering, anything that involves bending forwards, or “extension intolerant” - think anything that involves leaning backwards.
Position
This diagram gives an indication of what positions to avoid in order to not aggravate back pain, depending on if you’re flexion or extension intolerant.
Motion
You may also find it helpful to consider the amount of motion different positions require.
Other considerations
Long-term we don’t want you to avoid all things flexion or all things extension. It’s important to speak to a professional and incorporate exercises into your life that help to improve or restore your tolerance for these movements.
P.S. for those of you suffering with sciatica, please let your healthcare provider know if you’ve had any changes in sexual function (e.g. erectile dysfunction), this could be an indication that you have something called “Cauda Equina Syndrome” which a serious condition that needs treating ASAP.
Male spine motion during coitus: Implications for the low back pain patient, (Sidorkewicz N & McGill SM. 2014)
Documenting female spine motion during coitus with a commentary on the implications for the low back pain patient (Sidorkewicz N & McGill SM. 2014)