Common spinal problems encountered in old age

While there is the possibility that problems with one’s spine can come at any age, Dr. Joseph Yazdi believes that a huge percentage of these issues emerge during the senior stage. It’s only natural though, through decades of wear and tear, that the bones of a person, including the ones that comprise the spinal column, weaken.

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No matter how careful a person is, he can delay the effects of aging only for so long. The discs of the vertebrae will inevitably wear out after years of rubbing against one another. The spaces between these discs narrow and cause back pain, which many people start to experience in their mid-40s. The pain though, worsens over the next 20 years.

Here are some common spinal issues senior citizens experience.

Spinal arthritis

Arthritis is extremely common in adults as it affects the joints and bones of the body. This includes the spine. Arthritis can be treated by pain relievers, but more severe cases may require surgery.

Osteoporosis

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Osteoporosis or the loss of bone density is another common issue arising in old age. In this condition, bones become brittle and break easily. This is why a simple slip or fall for seniors may cause fractures, which may not have occurred during their younger years.

Spinal stenosis

As mentioned earlier, there are spaces between the discs of the spinal column. When the spaces close, it causes friction between the discs leading to pain. As is the case of with patients diagnosed with spinal stenosis.

An accomplished neurosurgeon, Dr. Joseph Yazdi is an alumnus of Drexel University College of Medicine and took his internship at Hahnemann University Hospital. Today, he specializes in minimally invasive surgical techniques, motion preservation through total disc replacement, and chronic pain management by placement of dorsal column stimulator (DCS) in selected patients. For similar reads, visit this blog.

Valuing Spine Health In The Workplace

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People who spend most of their time sitting and staring at the computer are not excused from non-accidental back injuries. Long hours spent slouching in the office chair may eventually take its toll on the body. It is most likely that office chairs are not the best and comfiest to work in from morning until afternoon. Breaks are too short to take long walks to relax the back muscles.

Below are two ways to take care of your spine health in the workplace.

Keep moving

Prolonged static posture is what gets everyone in the office at risk of non-accidental back injuries. Identifying this as the main problem suggests that standing up and stretching from time to time may prevent it from happening. A body that is healthy can only stay in the same position for 20 minutes. Being static for more than 20 minutes is the enemy. Moving the arms and legs even when seated may bring comfort as well.

When standing, avoid slouching. A good standing posture is when a person maintains the natural curve of the spine. Tightening the core muscles and keeping the head directly over the shoulders are just some guidelines how to keep a healthy posture. Maintain this even when walking.

Image source: ergonomicsguru.com

Sit comfortably

An office chair that mirrors the natural curve of the spine and keeps one sitting straight is an ergonomic office chair. Placing the feet flat to the ground and maintaining the 90-degree angle position of the knees, hips, and elbows is the proper sitting position. Keeping the head in neutral position provides a better view and reach of one’s desk and prevents possible neck problems.

Workplaces must be made safe and comfortable for employees and employers alike. Ergonomic offices keep workers inspired and healthy.

Dr. Joseph Yazdi is an accomplished neurosurgeon who specializes in minimally invasive surgical techniques, motion preservation through total disc replacement, and chronic pain management by placement of dorsal column stimulator (DCS, or SCS) in selected patients. Dr. Yazdi holds clinic at Tesson Heights Orthopaedic & Arthroscopic Associates, P.C. For similar updates, subscribe to this