Lower back pain is an increasingly prevalent health concern in India, especially among the youth.
Lower back pain is an increasingly prevalent health concern in India, especially among the youth. Research shows that one in five people between the ages of 20 and 30 experience some type of spinal disorder. Understanding the risk factors associated with low back pain early in life can play an important role in preventing low back pain from escalating into a chronic condition. Dr Abhijit Pawar, consultant spine and scoliosis surgery at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital, Mumbai, emphasizes the importance of early diagnosis to improve spinal health outcomes.
Effects of sitting for long periods of time
A major cause of back pain is long hours of sitting work, especially in occupations such as IT and banking. Many people find themselves sitting for long periods of time without proper ergonomic support. The rise of remote work has further complicated this issue, with many young professionals choosing to work from their beds or couches. This environment promotes poor posture, which can cause overstretching of the spinal ligaments and tension of the intervertebral discs, leading to persistent pain in the back and neck.
Impact of poor road conditions
Road conditions in many cities in India are also a cause of back pain, especially among young people who frequently use two-wheelers for transportation. The physical effects of traveling on uneven or unmaintained roads can increase stress on the lower back, exacerbating existing problems or creating new ones.
Lifestyle choices and their effects
Unhealthy lifestyle habits such as smoking and excessive drinking are on the rise among young people. These habits, combined with increased stress levels, can accelerate age-related degenerative changes in the spine. As a result, diseases of the lumbar and cervical spine may develop earlier.
Posture and sedentary lifestyle
A sedentary lifestyle combined with poor posture can have a major impact on your spinal health. Muscle weakness and decreased flexibility are common consequences of lack of exercise. Bad posture habits, such as slouching while working at a desk or slouching over the phone, can cause muscle and ligament strains. Additionally, improper screen position (such as looking down at the device instead of keeping the screen at eye level) can worsen spinal problems.
Risks of improper lifting techniques
Improper lifting techniques are also a common cause of lower back pain. Lifting heavy objects without using your leg muscles or not holding objects close to your body can put a lot of strain on your back. In addition, improper training in the gym, especially exercises such as deadlifts, can increase the risk of acute disc slippage in the lower back.
role of obesity
Excess weight and obesity are significant contributing factors to chronic low back pain. Carrying extra weight puts additional stress on your spine. A balanced diet plays an important role in maintaining overall health, including spinal health. Eating inflammatory foods such as processed products, refined carbohydrates, and red meat can lead to back problems. Additionally, eating too much unhealthy food can lead to obesity, which can further increase the strain on your spine.
Sleep patterns and stress management
Sleep is essential for both general health and recovery from chronic pain. Insufficient sleep can increase the production of stress hormones, which can increase muscle tension and result in lower back pain. Stress and anxiety can also cause poor posture, such as slouching, making you more likely to experience back pain.
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