According to him, back pain is the leading cause of disability and incapacity to work worldwide. It is expected that by 2050, the number of such cases will increase by 300 million, and currently, more than half a billion people are already facing this problem, as reported by the source.
“This problem is observed in people of all ages. It was previously thought that this condition was typical for the elderly, over 40 years old. However, we now see that even young people aged 16-18 and professional athletes suffer from back pain. Contrary to popular belief, road traffic accidents and injuries rank last on the list of causes leading to spinal problems,” noted Andrey Ratинов.
The specialist emphasized that the main factor causing the ailment is lifestyle.
“Prolonged sitting at work for eight to ten hours, monotonous physical loads, such as carrying heavy bags, as well as a shift to motor transport and generally low physical activity are the main reasons. Problems with the neck and lower back in young people are also exacerbated by frequent use of phones and computers, as well as sedentary studying and working. Modern children have become much less active compared to the past when they spent more time outdoors; now they prefer to sit in front of screens,” he explained.
The lack of physical activity leads to the deterioration of the nutrition of intervertebral discs, which, in turn, can cause hernias and pain in muscles and joints.
Andrey Ratинов added that both excessive physical exertion and its complete absence are harmful to the body — a balance is necessary. “It is recommended to engage in physical activity at least two to three times a week for 40-60 minutes, as well as to walk more and spend time outdoors,” he advises.
