Spinal problems emerging as a big lifestyle disorder, asserts expert at Nanavati Super Speciality Hospital session

Sedentary lifestyles, lack of sports and physical activity and increase in instances of smoking and tobacco consumption has given rise to spinal and back problems which are assuming dimensions of a lifestyle disorder and is a huge cause of concern, asserted Dr Nikhil Arbatti, Minimally Invasive Spine Surgeon, Nanavati Super Speciality Hospital (NSSH). He was speaking at a session on back pain and spinal problems organized by NSSH as part of its Senior Citizens Club initiative.

“More than 70% of the global population are susceptible to severe back and neck pain. A 15% increase has also been noted in clinically diagnosed and documented spinal problems. Musculoskeletal disorders compounded with challenges in spine pathology with rising cases of nerve compression and muscle degeneration are posing a huge challenge to spine treatment professionals”, stated Dr Arbatti.

Back pain normally occurs owing to diabetes, thyroid and rheumatoid arthritis. Body parts affected by the inflammation include hips, pelvis, low back and neck. Inflammation persistence may lead to swelling and damage of joints causing pain and stiffness in the lower back, neck and hips. Common causes of back pain normally are improper lifting of weights, making a sudden movement, falling down, carrying excess body weight and poor posture. Gall bladder and liver inflammation can also be causal factors for back pain.

Osteoporosis or weak bones are caused by loss of calcium from bones making them weak and fragile. Onset of osteoporosis is seen in postmenopausal ladies above the age of 50 or those who have undergone early hysterectomy. Obesity, lack of physical activity, tobacco chewing and smoking causes osteoporosis.

Commenting on popular treatments for osteoporosis control, Dr Arbatti said, “Injections like terapatide (artificial parathyroid hormone) prevent loss of calcium from bone and increases the formation of bone. This is the only artificial hormone which leads to quick bone formation and results in early recovery of patients.”

The session was followed by an enthralling musical performance by two visually impaired girls from the National Association of Blind (NAB).