Why Does My Back Hurt When I Sneeze?

Is sneezing sending a sharp pain through your back?

The Impact of Sudden Pressure

Sneezing is a powerful force that creates a sudden surge of internal pressure, affecting your entire body—especially if your spine is already under stress. This can become a problem when that force targets vulnerable areas like a herniated disc or strained muscles. The risk is even higher if you’re bent over or twisted when the sneeze strikes.

In fact, the combination of forward bending and twisting during a sneeze creates one of the most harmful positions for the lower back. It’s similar to what happens when people lift a heavy object and twist at the same time,  which is well-known for causing back injuries. Even if the action only lasts a second, the damage can linger for days or weeks.

What You Can Do About It

While sneezing is inevitable, associated pain doesn’t have to be. So, what should you do? First, avoid twisting when you sneeze. Stand tall or stabilize yourself, engage your core muscles (as if lifting something heavy), and let the sneeze come without bending. Doing so helps protect your spine.

If you also notice other signs—like stiffness, pain with bending, or recurring tension—it could be more than just a sneeze-related strain. These may point to an underlying spinal issue that deserves prompt attention. Dr. Dan or Dr. Pascal at Lindenwoods Chiropractic can help identify the underlying issue and guide you toward lasting relief.