"The doctor of the future will give no medicine but will interest his patients in the care of the human frame, in diet, and in the cause and prevention of disease. "-Thomas Edison

Wednesday, January 22, 2014

Are you affected by back pain? Are you a smoker? Did you know smoking may be a reason for your back pain?

Although genetics are the most likely cause of back pain, studies show there is also a strong correlation between smoking and back pain. Smoking can have a significant impact on individuals’ bones and soft tissues, especially in the spine.

First off, smoking reduces bone density. Your vertebrate may be at greater risk for osteoporosis, spinal arthritis, or other degenerative spinal conditions if you smoke. Second, tendons and ligaments are more vulnerable to injury in smokers because the nicotine in cigarettes causes cartilage and other soft tissue to become less elastic and resilient. Next, smokers experience decreased circulation due to the harmful chemicals found in cigarettes. These chemicals damage blood vessels and increase the risk of atherosclerosis, which is the buildup of plaque in your bloodstream. Plaque reduces the amount of blood being transported to your intervetebral disks, which need blood’s nutrients in order to do their job—acting as shock absorbers and keeping the spine flexible.

When vertebrate, cartilage, and intervertebral discs of the spine weaken, you are at a greater risk to experience a variety of back problems such as herniated discs, low back pain, and even leg pain. These issues may be treated with surgery, therapy, and better posture. If you would like the full effect of these interventions smoking must also cease.  

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