Doctors say lumbar discomfort which in nine of 10 cases, only requires simple lifestyle changes, and also result in job loss and serious mental conditions.
“Kitchen counters, office chairs, and lack of exercise contribute to lower back pain, one of the most common reasons for a hospital visit. The condition which in nine out of 10 cases requires simple lifestyle changes and exercises, can lead to job loss, and serious mental conditions. It’s more a lack of awareness.”
Lower back pain — the pain between the lower edge of the ribs and the buttocks of the lumbar region — affected 619 million people globally in 2020, according to the World Health Organization. The number is estimated to increase to 843 million cases by 2050. More than 90%, however, suffer from non-specific lower back pain — that cannot be attributed to a particular cause, such as underlying disease, tissue damage, or pathology.
While people who have suffered back injuries due to an accident, such as tuberculosis, or have an anatomical change due to a disc bulge may require a shift to an active lifestyle with exercise and physiotherapy. “Yet, it is a leading cause of disability worldwide.”
Lower back pain can affect people of all ages, even children and teenagers though the highest incidence is observed in those aged 50 to 55, with women experiencing it more often than men.
At least 66% of Indians suffer from mild, acute, or chronic lower back pain. “This is higher than the global average of 46%. Several reasons, including genetics, such as short stature, environmental conditions such as bad roads, and lifestyle factors such as lack of exercise and smoking, contribute to this.” In India, women are more prone to suffer from back and neck pain because of the nature of domestic chores.
Several myths exist about how to manage the pain, such as advice to reduce activity and avoid exercise. Simple changes can go on a long way. “Petite women can use footstools in the kitchen to avoid straining their backs. Hug and lift heavy objects instead of carrying them in one hand. Sit down and pick up objects from the floor instead of bending.”
Chiropractic therapy can sometimes do more harm than good. “Patients end up having complications that make them immobile. Besides misdiagnosis, incorrect or excessive manipulation has put patients at risk for serious injuries, such as herniated discs, nerve damage, and strokes.”
Besides misdiagnosis and harmful therapy, there is a risk of overtreatment. Some diagnostic labs include an MRI scan of the spine as part of an annual health check-up. “We end up seeing people with symptoms being treated for disc bulge and other issues. Such types of treatment trigger injuries.”
