On a sunny afternoon, Yuvraj Mehra, a 31-year-old software engineer, decided to join his friends for a friendly cricket match in the park. As he leapt about to catch a ball, he felt a sharp pain in his lower back. What started as a fun day turned into an agonising experience. Little did Yuvraj know that this moment would lead to his battle with chronic lower back pain, a condition that affected 87.5 million Indians in 2023.
This is not just Yuvraj’s story but a growing crisis globally. It usually stems from poor posture, poor lifestyles, and a lack of awareness about spine health. Globally, the prevalence of spinal disorders has become alarmingly high. Studies state around 42% to 83% of the population suffer from spinal disorders in India.
This calls for immediate attention. With millions of people affected by back pain and spinal disorders, World Spine Day reminds us to prioritise spine health in our lives. Let’s review the importance of World Spine Day, common spinal disorders, some effective treatments, and tips for maintaining a healthy spine.
The spine, our backbone, is most significant in our overall well-being. It supports our body structure and protects the spinal cord, essential for transferring signals between the brain and the rest of the body.
In short, a healthy spine is a non-negotiable for easy movement, posture, and overall quality of life. Ignoring spine health could lead to severe spinal cord injury that might further need surgeries or physical therapies.
World Spine Day is observed annually on October 16. It is a global event that aims to raise awareness about spine care, thereby maintaining a healthy spine. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), back pain is the leading cause of disability worldwide, affecting around 619 million people globally. By 2050, WHO estimates this number may increase to 843 million because of the growing population and ageing. 3
Although the theme for World Spine Day changes each year, this year's theme is “Support Your Spine.” Each year, different themes focus on different aspects of spine health. These themes highlight the importance of physical activity and the role of healthcare professionals in promoting spinal health awareness.
Spinal disorders can involve a massive range of conditions that affect the spine. This can further lead to pain, discomfort, or even restricted movements. Here are some of the most common spinal disorders:
When the cushioning discs between vertebrae bulge or rupture, they can press on spinal nerves, causing severe pain and numbness. This condition is usually prevalent among working professionals who spend long hours seated.
This occurs when the discs lose hydration and flexibility, often leading to chronic pain. Lifestyle factors like seated work habits can generally be the major cause.
This condition affects spine health in children. Scoliosis is an abnormal spine curvature that can lead to discomfort and postural issues. This may also affect adolescents during growth spurts.
Stenosis is often seen in older adults and can affect spine health due to age-related degeneration. It is a narrowing of the spinal canal that can compress spinal nerves, leading to pain and mobility issues.
A condition that weakens bones, making them more susceptible to fractures. Osteoporosis may also lead to spinal fractures or spinal cord injuries. In India, osteoporosis is a growing concern, particularly among post-menopausal women.
According to studies, approximately 313 million spinal surgeries are performed annually to treat various spinal disorders. These surgeries often include spinal fusion, laminectomy, and discectomy, focusing on reducing pain and restoring function.
As we observe World Spine Day this year with the theme “Support Your Spine,” it is essential to consider the practical measures individuals can take to maintain their spinal health. Below are six major tips that will help you with spine care and highlight how to prevent back pain.
Good posture is super essential if you want to prevent unnecessary spinal surgery. Here are some tips:
Regular exercise strengthens the muscles supporting your spine. Consider adding these activities into your daily routine:
For those who work at desks or computers for extended periods,
Excess weight puts additional strain on your spine. Maintaining a healthy weight through balanced nutrition and regular exercise can help with better spine health.
Improper lifting techniques can lead to severe injuries. In the worst-case scenario, you may either need physical therapy or spinal disorders treatment. To eliminate this,
This is one of the most underrated tips for maintaining good spine health for athletes, seniors, children, and everyone. A quality mattress can make a significant difference in spinal health:
Several organisations and communities are participating in World Spine Day by hosting events like workshops, seminars, and fitness classes focused on spinal health awareness. Each of these activities focuses on engaging people in discussions about how to care for their spines. Here’s how you can celebrate:
You can create a community and host workshops or fitness classes focused on spinal health education and exercises that promote good posture and flexibility.
Use platforms like Twitter, Facebook, or Instagram to share information about World Spine Day and encourage discussions about spinal health within your networks.
Try partnering with local gyms or wellness centres to offer free classes or workshops on maintaining a healthy spine.
Your spine is the backbone of your life. It supports every movement and every step you take. But what happens when that support falters? Chronic back pain, debilitating spinal disorders and inability to live freely can turn life upside down. The reality is indeed dramatic, and it is not just a matter of discomfort. Untreated spinal disorders can steal away your quality of life, leaving you dependent, inactive, and even immobilised.
However, with events like World Spine Day, you should pay attention to the signs that your body needs help. Prioritising spine health is a necessity. From early prevention to timely treatments, your spine deserves the best care. Yet again, quality spine care comes at a cost. Be it physical therapy, specialised surgeries, or long-term treatment, the financial burden can be heavy.
That’s where having vital health insurance steps in as your safety net. Care Health Insurance gives you access to treatment and peace of mind. Care Health Insurance makes treatment a breeze with comprehensive health plans covering everything from spinal surgeries to post-hospitalisation care. It ensures your spine gets the treatment it needs without draining your hard-earned savings.
>> Also Read: Is Spinal Fusion Covered by Health Insurance?
Disclaimers: Plan features, benefits, coverage, and claims underwriting are subject to policy terms and conditions. Kindly refer to the brochure, sales prospectus, and policy documents carefully.
References:
https://indianexpress.com/article/health-wellness/weight-low-back-pain-indians-8679963/
https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/low-back-pain
https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/pain-research/articles/10.3389/fpain.2022.856252/full
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