Poor posture, excessive weight, lack of physical activity leading causes of spinal disorders
Healthy posture and good lifestyle habits can prevent most cases of back pain and other spinal disorders, say doctors
Patiala, 20th October 2016: Spinal problems are among the most common health disorders responsible for most hospital visits. In fact, most people suffer from a spine-related problem at least once in their lifetimes. However, a large number of cases of back ache and other spinal disorders can be avoided by adopting a good posture and regular exercise.
With an aim to raise awareness about spinal disorders and promote ‘spine-healthy’ living. To mark the occasion, Columbia Asia Hospital, Patiala has organized a special ‘spine camp’ to encourage people to meet a spine specialist and have their problems examined.
While spinal disorders are among the most common health problems, a large number of people keep ignoring their backache and keep postponing their hospital visit. Unfortunately, they end up exacerbating their problem.
“Over 80 per cent of adults will suffer back pain at some point in their lives. 50% of the working population will experience back or neck pain symptoms at least once per year. Back and neck pain is one of the most common reasons for workplace sick leave. This problem has become even more profound today with most workplaces involving employees to sit in front of the computer for long hours. Poor posture, excessive weight and lack of physical activity are among the leading causes of spinal disorders. Injuries are another major cause,” said Dr Vikas Jain, Spine Specialist, Columbia Asia Hospitals, Patiala.
Dr Jain attended the camp and advised a number of patients about the right recourse to their back ache and other spinal problems.
Poor posture and inactivity are major contributors to the development of back pain and other spinal disorders. According to the World Health Organization, one in four adults is not active enough and over 80% of adolescent population is not active enough. In fact, the theme of World Spine Day (WSD) 2016 is “Straighten Up and Move” aimed at highlighting the importance of physical activity and improving posture as part of good spinal health and prevention of injury.
“The good aspect is that many of these common problems can be avoided by undertaking simple lifestyle changes and adopting healthy habits. In fact, healthy posture and habits can help to maintain healthy back and healthy spine. At the same time, most spinal problems respond to simple lifestyle changes such as improving posture while sitting, standing, reading or using a mobile phone. Adopting ergonomic furniture at work can prevent a lot of spinal problems and back aches,” added Dr Jain.
Another important part of maintaining good spine health is controlling weight as excessive weight is among the leading causes of spinal injuries such as slipped disc.
Symptoms of spine disorders include: Pain in neck / back; difficulty in standing, sitting or walking; radiating pain or tingling / numbness in arms or legs; weakness in hands or legs; nausea and dizziness; imbalance while walking; decrease in walking speed & distance due to leg pain / heaviness
If you have any of the above symptoms or any other form of back or neck pain, make sure you consult a specialist immediately.
