A silent spine-related epidemic building up, warns doctor
By Admin | January 10, 2021
Noting that the prevalence of spine problems has increased manifold during the COVID-19 lockdown, a senior Delhi-based doctor says that looking at the increasing number of spine-related cases, it would not be an overstatement to say that there is a silent epidemic building up.
The associated factor is the forced sedentary lifestyle, and prolonged sitting, lack of exercise and poor activity. Poor understanding of spine ergonomics leads to improper posturing and is also contributory, explains Dr Samir K Kalra, Consultant, Department of Neurosurgery, Sir Ganga Ram Hospital.
"Spine related consultations have increased and the reason is primarily sedentary lifestyle that has been forced upon us by the disease. There has been a significant change in daily routine activities in almost everyone's lifestyle in this lockdown period. Backache is considered amongst most common occupational disorders leading to work related absenteeism. Neck pain is equally distressing and appalling. They cause a huge economic burden and could become a major constraint in our already weakened economy" Dr Kalra told IANSlife.
Asked which demographic is most at risk, the doctor points to the elderly among the subsets of people who have been affected more in this period.
"The fact that they already have compromised and weak spinal musculatures along with forced inactivity leading to increased spinal load. The main support for the spine comes from the muscles and it is important to keep them supple and strong. It is difficult for the elderly to do so."
Another subset is professionals working from home, the doctor explains. "Working from home and on laptops for long periods has resulted in...(More)
For more information please read, A silent spine-related epidemic building up, warns doctor, by daijiworld.com
