The Connection Between Smoking and Back Pain
Studies have shown that there is often a direct connection between smoking and lower back pain. There is evidence that smoking can also cause degenerative disorders of the intervertebral discs. Other factors, such as high cholesterol and hypertension, are believed to cause damage to the vascular system in the discs and joints.
The full effect of smoking on the lower back is not yet fully understood. What is known is that there is a definite connection between the two. In addition to the above back problems, smoking has also been connected to osteoporosis, restrictions in the joints, compression fractures, and longer healing times, which means that smokers are going to have to endure their back pain longer than those who don't smoke.
Instead of seeking surgical help to relieve the lower back pain, a chiropractor may be able to help provide relief without any surgery or drugs. They can deal with these back problems and help reduce the pain.
Taking care of the lower back pain can help reduce the stress, too, which is a main reason why some people smoke. When smokers learn that there is a connection between their smoking habit and their back pain, they are often rather easily encouraged to quit.
In addition to the back pain, however, smoking also offers many other threats to good health. There are about 4800 known different chemicals in cigarette smoke, and 69 of them are known to cause cancer. Many other known health problems are also caused by smoking, including asthma, loss of bone density, fertility problems, stroke, premature deliveries, and many more.
A chiropractor can help patients to quit, as well as provide some relief for the back pain. They are well aware of the harm it can cause, and also know that it can be hard to quit. They offer several ways to help, and can provide many tips to enable people to get over the habit and enjoy a healthier lifestyle.
Used under Creative Commons Licensing courtesy of Zuerichs Strassen