Spine problems can be very devastating because it takes too much time to treat and some problems may worsen with time. Therefore spine health is very important in order to maintain health of other body functions as well. Still majority of people are unaware about most of the spine diseases and problems which can commonly occur to any person. This is more dangerous because not being aware of spine issues can take you to severe stages of spinal disorders which from which it might be hard for you to recover. Hence today we will be discussing about few common spine problems that are common in people.
7 Common Spine Problems And Their Solutions
1. Herniated Disc
Discs are basically supporting cushions that are present in between of each bone. Spine is made up of multiple vertebras and it has spinal disc in between. When this spinal disc moves from its place of cushioning is shifted because of certain reasons, it might cause terrible pain in the spine and lead you to herniated disc.
This problem can be become even worse if the slipped disc interferes with one of the veins present in the region. Herniated disc is more common towards lower back but can occur in upper back as well. Most common symptoms of herniated disc are-
- Back pain
- Numbness
- Pain in arms and legs
- Tingling sensation
- Muscle weakness
To reduce the risk of herniated disc, maintain a healthy weight and exercise daily. Do not put excessive or instant pressure on your back as it may lead to this problem.
2. Muscle Strain
One of the most common problems that are suffered by ample number of people is muscle strain. This happens in the case when the spine becomes strained because of poor posture. It affects the muscles around the spine and increases tightness. Muscle strain can affect any portion of your back ranging from neck to lower back.
Regular exercise and using the correct posture to do any activity is the main key to avoid muscle strains around spine and back. Also do proper stretching before indulging in any heavy workout or strength activity.
3. Scoliosis
Scoliosis is basically having an abnormal spinal bending or curvature. This condition refers to problem in curvature during childhood or early adolescence. Scoliosis may remain for lifetime if proper treatment is not availed in the beginning of the spine problem. These symptoms occur during scoliosis-
- Uneven shoulders
- Different heights in rib cage
- Body leans towards one side
- Head position is not above pelvis
- Either or both hips higher than normal
This condition may even lead you to pinched nerve. Treatment of this problem is not set, it varies according to patient and condition of the patient. Most common solution to this spine problem is physical therapy, surgery or bracing.
4. Whiplash
Not many people know about this condition, it is a neck injury which causes sudden jerk in the movement of the neck. Whiplash can actually result to awkward movement and strain in the neck muscles. In certain cases if the injury or jerk is quite high, it may lead to inter-vertebral joints, discs and ligaments in the spinal section of the neck.
If the person is not taken to the hospital immediately, it could lead to symptoms such as-
- Neck pain
- Stiff neck
- Headache
- Back pain
- Dizziness
- Difficulty in concentration
Also Read- Osteoporosis Day 2021: Simple Lifestyle Changes To Prevent Osteoporosis
5. Osteoporosis
This spine health disorder is more common in older adults. Osteoporosis is a condition in which the bones become weak and brittle. Initially they start bending and slowly there are chances of the bones to break. Osteoporosis occurs in multiple location around the body including spine and it can cause severe complications and health problems. Most common problems that occurs because of osteoporosis are-
- Hunched back
- Collapsed vertebra
- Fractures
- Muscle weakness
The only option to improve or better this condition is to have diet rich in calcium, vitamin D and other foods to strengthen bones. Start doing physical exercise from a young age to avoid this problem and maintain correct body posture as much as possible.
6. Compression Fracture
This spine problem also arises in older adults in most cases. Bones start declining after a certain age and if variations are not made to protect it, it may lead to cracks and hairline fractures in the vertebrae. These cracks or fractures can also lead to compression fracture or collapsed vertebra. If it happens, a person is unable to stand and may even have bone cancer if you smoke continuously.
The only treatment available is pain medications and physical therapy for this type of compression fracture.
Also Read- World Osteoporosis Day 2021: 7 Myths & Facts About Osteoporosis That You Must Know About
7. Spondylolisthesis
This spine problem is also very common and can affect almost anyone from any age group. Spondylolisthesis occurs when the vertebra present in the spine moves from its position and gets a little forward. This leads to pain the area especially in the neck region when you try to squeeze or move your head in that direction. This leads to terrible pain and can affect other body functions as well.
Spondylolisthesis may lead to losing of limbs, bladder control or can make it difficult for you to walk properly. It can be treated by weight loss, medications, core strengthening exercises and physical therapy.
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