There have been rapid changes in our day-to-day lives due to increased use of technology. Though it has made our lives convenient, it has also resulted in a lot of side effects like affecting our health and posture while working on gadgets/computers.
As per a report, 20% of people in India with neck & back problems are in the age group of 16~34. The most common pain is the lower back pain and Slipped Disc, which is the most common condition, experienced by patients. Having such kind of health problems at an early age can be alarming hence, it is important that young India & teens are made aware about the importance of basic postures, health implications of wrong postures, etc.
Human Vertebra – Overview
The vertebral column of human beings consists of 33 vertebrae; the first 24 vertebrae are the articulating vertebrae. An intervertebral disc separates two adjacent vertebrae. It also holds the two vertebrae together while allowing the slight movement. The discs protect the vertebrae by absorbing the shocks. Below is the simplified snapshot of the vertebra
Figure 1 Image Source
Slipped Disc – Symptoms
Slipped Disc is also called as Herniated Disc. You can have Slipped disc from your neck to the lower part. L4- L5 Slipped disc on the lower back is most common. Some of the basic symptoms of Slipped disc are below
- Severe pain while sitting or standing
- Muscle weakness
- Pain & numbness on one side of the body which then extends to your legs & arms
- Pain when you walk for a short distance
A Slipped disc occurs when the outer ring becomes weak and allows the inner portion to slip out. Though old people are more likely to experience Slipped disc, as mentioned earlier; it is also prevalent in youngsters in India. Do not try treatment at home or home remedies if you have been diagnosed with slipped disc. Consult a good spine specialist who is trained in orthopedics. Should you encounter such symptoms, though you should always opt for Slipped disc treatment
Slipped Disc – Treatment
Once you consult a doctor, he would first have a detailed look at your medical history and the symptoms. Imaging tests like X-Ray, CT scan, MRI scan, and disco gram can help the doctor to view the bones but not muscles of your spine. A DSA (Digital Spine Analysis) is advised in addition to the can help the doctor to identify the damaged area which might be the root cause for the pain. He can then advise you on the importance & steps for spine care, which will help you in the long-term as well.
Not paying timely heed to spinal issues can lead to permanent nerve damage; hence you should never ignore the early warning signals. Some of the treatment/remedies for Slipped disc are
- Exercises that stretch & strengthen the back & surrounding muscles that can relive the pain due to Slipped disc
- Avoiding heavy lifting
- Be more active by having regular stretching & walking schedules
- Passive Therapy by usage of hot & cold packs in affected areas
Doctors can prescribe nerve pain medication if the exercises are futile. They may also recommend a surgical option like Spine surgery if none of these treatments result in significant improvements. Another major neck & spine issue that is prevalent in today’s times is Spondylitis.
Spondylitis – Overview, Symptoms & Treatment
Spondylitis is an inflammation of the spine & sacroiliac joints. It would have more impact on the lower back, rather than the neck & upper back portion. Some of the Spondylitis symptoms are
- Acute pain in the lower back
- Pain while walking
- Swelling on joints
Though there are painkillers & anti-inflammatory medications for treating Spondylitis, regular consumption of those medicines can have other side-effects like stomach ulcers, kidney problems, etc. None of these methods would address the root cause of Spondylitis; this is where Qi Spine Clinic can be instrumental in reduction & fixation of spine problems by usage of Digital diagnostic testing & cell repair technology. Their experienced team would also recommend treatment & exercises that would reduce the pain and improve muscle function & mobility.