Rising Cases of Slip Disc and Sciatica in Young Adults: What’s Driving the Trend?

In the past, slip disc and sciatica were mostly seen in older people, but with time, more and more young adults in their 20s and 30s are suffering from these health issues. Back pain, leg pain and nerve problems have become quite common among youngsters as well. There is a sharp rise in these cases mainly due to unhealthy lifestyle habits and the long sitting hours without almost no physical activity.

To understand the cause of rising cases of slip disc and sciatica in young adults and how it can be prevented, we reached out to Dr. Shobhit Bhardwaj, Senior Consultant & HOD – Orthopaedics and Joint Replacement, MBBS, MS (Orthopaedics), Yatharth Super Speciality Hospital, Noida.

What is Slip Disc and Sciatica

According to Informed Health Org, a German based scientific institute, many people have back pain that keeps on returning. Usually it is hard to say what the exact cause is. But pain that shoots down your leg can be a sign of a slipped disc. Slip disc in the lower back region is the major cause of sciatica.

The sciatic nerve is considered to be the longest nerve running from the lower back to the legs. If the sciatic nerve experiences dysfunction, it causes mild to severe shooting pain in the body.

Dr Shobhit Bhardwaj shares, “A slip disc (Prolapsed Intervertebral Disc or PIVD) happens when the soft cushion between the bones of the spine moves out of its place and presses on nearby nerves. When this pressure affects the sciatic nerve, it causes sciatica which leads to sharp pain tingling or numbness down the leg.”

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What is causing Slip Disc and Sciatica in Young adults?

During discussion, Dr Bhardwaj mentioned that the main reason behind this trend is the modern lifestyle. Here are a few causes he shared:

Long Sitting Hours and Poor Posture

Most people now spend long hours sitting in front of computers working on laptops or using mobile phones. Poor posture, lack of movement and weak back muscles make the spine more likely to get injured. Sitting for long periods without breaks puts extra pressure on the lower back.

Wrong Exercise Habits

Some young people do not exercise at all while others suddenly start lifting heavy weights or doing high intensity workouts without proper guidance. Doing exercises with the wrong posture or without strengthening the core muscles can easily lead to back injuries.

Being Overweight And Stress

Extra body weight puts more pressure on the spine and stress causes tightness in the back muscles making the condition worse.

Other Common Reasons

Long driving hours, poor sleeping positions and dehydration are also common triggers that harm spinal health.

Also Read: Are You Taking Care of Your Spine? 7 Essential Tips to Follow on World Spine Day 2023

Prevention Tips

Dr Bhardwaj shared that most of the above problems can be prevented with simple lifestyle changes:

• Being physically active in daily life can cure most of the back problems. Regular stretching, yoga, daily walk, and light exercises help keep the spine flexible and strong.
• Maintaining correct posture while sitting, taking short breaks every hour and setting up an ergonomic workspace are very helpful.
• If you already feel pain, numbness or tingling in your back or legs it is important to see a doctor early.

Bottomline

The rise in slip disc and sciatica among young people is a warning sign. It reminds us that our spine needs daily care. A healthy back depends on simple habits such as sitting right, staying active and keeping our posture straight.With timely treatment, physiotherapy, and posture correction most cases can be cured without surgery.