Are Tall People More Likely to Have Back Problems?

By Brandi Goodman

You might not think that height has any bearing on your back. Whether you’re tall or short, you are equally capable of developing back problems. That isn’t quite the case. Taller people do, in fact, have more concerns when it comes to the spine. As such, especially if you are a tall person, you should do what you can to keep your body strong so you can limit these concerns.

Are Tall People More Healthy Than Average (Or Short) People?

Generally speaking, tall people are healthier than average compared to short people. The New England Journal of Medicine reported their findings in a 2015 study. In them, they discuss the link between coronary artery disease (CAD) and short stature. People who are a little more than 2 inches shorter than the average height (5 feet 9 inches for men, 5 feet 4 inches for women), are more likely to experience high cholesterol, high blood pressure, and diabetes. This, in turn, can lead to CAD.

However, that isn’t to say being tall has all the perks. Although a person whose height is taller than average may be generally healthy, they are more likely to experience back pain. Their center of balance is often more unstable, making them susceptible to tripping more frequently. Even a minor fall can lead to significant problems within the body, be it pain, dislocation, a fracture, or a break.

Are There Muscles That Tall People Should Develop to Protect Their Back?

Because a taller person has more of a struggle with balance, it’s important for them to develop their core muscles. Back muscles should be worked on as well. Simple exercises such as crunches, mountain climbers, leg lifts, and planks can all be used to help build muscles in the appropriate areas. Taller people should especially focus on stretches and exercises that target the obliques, abs, and lower back. As well, side stretches, Russian twists, and leg raises can all prove beneficial.

One of the most important things you can do is to begin a walking routine. Maintaining your posture while walking can boost your core strength, and it also helps develop your lower body. This will assist with balance and help keep you on your feet, which is going to be very important as you begin to age. Yoga can also provide an ideal boost to stability and keep the core engaged while you work on enhancing your strength and balance overall.

Do Tall People Have Health Concerns Specific to Them?

While spine and back problems are among the biggest health concerns related to height, a study from John Hopkins University found that there may even be an increased risk for colon cancer. An individual who is 4 inches or taller than the average height has a 14 percent higher chance of developing colorectal cancer. In addition, tall adults have a 6 percent increased chance of developing adenomas, which are tumors that are not cancerous. Height is not the most important factor, though. Age and genetics are still the biggest risk factors to look at when determining chances of developing this type of cancer (and many others).

Another malady that is closely associated with people who are tall in stature are blood clots. Men, in particular, have a high risk of developing a clot. In fact, men who stand 6 feet or taller are nearly three times as likely to develop one than men who stand at 5 feet 8 inches or less. Men who are tall and also overweight boost those chances to five times as much.

How Much of a Factor Does Weight Play in Back Pain?

Weight is often a significant factor for back pain. Excess weight puts extra stress on your spine. If you’re tall and overweight, you may be even more off-balance and more likely to experience aches and pains within your back and elsewhere. Extra weight can also increase your risk for a bulging or herniated disc. Degenerative disc disease is also a possibility. Working to maintain a healthy weight should always be the goal, no matter your height. It can have serious health effects otherwise.

What Preventative Measures Can Be Taken to Avoid Back Pain?

As always, prevention is key in keeping pain at bay. Since your height is already putting you at an increased risk for developing aches and problems in your back, you should be doing all you can to keep your body strong and healthy. Drinking water is one of the best things you can do for yourself, as it helps to hydrate your joints and keep them limber. Fitting exercise into each day is also important. You should especially focus on the core and back-strengthening exercises that were previously mentioned.

It is also wise to maintain good posture. Poor posture is one of the biggest culprits of back pain. Sit and stand erect and without slouching. Avoid looking down at your phone or other devices for extended periods. Keep your face forward as much as possible. You should also be using a lumbar support cushion in your seat to prevent low back pain, and find ways to keep the spine aligned while you sleep. That may mean getting a new pillow, updating your mattress, or sleeping on your side rather than your stomach. Routine chiropractic care can also prevent back problems from progressing. Use any preventative measures you can to improve your well-being.

Let The Joint Chiropractic Help With Your Back Pain

Whether you are a tall person dealing with balance issues and back problems, or you’re someone who is short and still struggling with the same things, a visit to The Joint Chiropractic can help. Having one of The Joint’s doctors provide a spinal adjustment can ensure no subluxations or joint restrictions are hindering you in any way. Doing so will help allow your body to do what it was meant to do, heal itself.

The information, including but not limited to, text, graphics, images and other material contained on this page are for informational purposes only. The purpose of this post is to promote broad consumer understanding and knowledge of various health topics, including but not limited to the benefits of chiropractic care, exercise and nutrition. It is not intended to provide or be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your chiropractor, physician or other qualified health care provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment and before undertaking a new health care regimen, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this page.