Smoking one of the main causes of chronic low back pain.

Dubai, United Arab Emirates, January 26, 2017:  Smokers with chronic low back pain may find relief once they stub the cigarette, according to a top health official.

Studies have sited tobacco use is be one of the main reasons for low back pain, said Dr Abdulla Qasim, neurosurgeon at Rashid Hospital during the Authority’s weekly smart clinic, which is a platform where information is disseminated to users via Twitter and Periscope. “Most smokers who come to us with low back pain and are surprised to find out that the cause is tobacco use. Smoking prevents optimum blood flow to the heart, lungs and the lower back, which causes chronic low back pain. Research points out that lower back pain is significantly associated with smoking history and hypertension, and development of lumbar spondylosis is significantly associated with smoking history, hypertension and high cholesterol, said Dr Al Qasim.

On an average yearly Rashid Hospital’s Neurology Clinic sees 1000 to 1500 patients for chronic low back pain. “ Globally, 80 per cent of the population experiences back pain at some point in their life at least once, however about 40 per cent experience chronic pain which can last for months. Incorrect posture over prolonged period of time, occupational, social, economic and physical factors can contribute to lower back pain,” said Dr Al Qassim. “It can also be related to a disease but often we find that lifestyle changes are key to solving lower back pain issues.”

He said the main problem the hospital faces is people visit the doctor after a significant time lapse, which often deteriorates the condition and can even lead to chronic issues like slip disc.

“Our message to the community is that if the symptoms persist or are severe it is best to go straight to a primary healthcare physician so that the doctor can decide whether specialist consultation is needed,” said Dr Al Qassim.

About exercise, he said: “Anything within reason is good. I would advise against over exercising and similarly no exercise is harmful for the body too.  As we age, our spine and disc undergoes a degenerative process making our bodies stiffer and less flexible. To combat the effects of age, exercise and healthy eating is a simple solution,” said Dr Al Qasim.

Box: Additional information:

Tips to prevent low back problems:

1. Exercise. Being overweight is a risk for low back pain. Muscles are meant to move, also exercise helps keep your joints fluid. However, be cautious when you exercise, over exercising and incorrect posture can lead to back problems. Be aware of your posture and learn the right techniques to protect your body.
2. Eat right.  Maintain a healthy weight to prevent back and joint issues.
3. Maintain proper posture. Incorrect posture while sitting in the front of the computer for hours is a major factor for low back pain. Get your office ergonomics right to protect not just your back but also your wrists, neck and shoulders. Avoid using excessive technology such as smart phones, video games and other smart devices that can cause major neck and back strain.
4. Reduce stress. Relieve stress through exercise and learn to manage stress because it affects the overall functioning of the body.
5. Sleep sideways. 
6. Quit tobacco. Besides being a risk factor for low back pain, there are so many serious health complications that tobacco causes. It is time to focus on smoking cessation as a means to better health.