SHARP RISE IN BACK-PAIN CASES

Team L&M

Back pain, once considered an issue for those above 50, is now increasingly affecting youngsters too. Sedentary lifestyle, smoking, alcohol consumption, lack of regular exercise, prolonged sitting, and poor posture are contributing to rising cases. However, patients delay treatment by taking medication from a pharmacy store and ignoring upper and lower back pain, and fail to understand the importance of the spine. Such patients end up experiencing complications like numbness in hands and legs, weakness, and even permanent disability. Back pain should be treated without any delay and managed under the care of a qualified spine surgeon.

Rukiya Banu, a 60-year-old woman from Kopar Khairane, Vashi, Navi Mumbai, suffered from back pain for over 10 years. Despite her growing discomfort, she avoided visiting a doctor. Her condition worsened, and she became bedridden and dependent on her family for daily activities. Though multiple hospitals recommended surgery, she hesitated. Eventually,  the pain affected both her legs, she visited Apollo Spectra Hospital, Mumbai. There, she was properly counseled, and surgery was performed. Today, Rukiya can walk without support, and her back pain is gone.

Another patient, Mitali Dewoolkar, 50, from Mumbai, couldn’t walk for over 2.5 years due to severe back pain. Her right leg became numb, and she would often lose balance. Despite consulting several doctors, she avoided surgery due to the fear of being unable to walk. Over time, her left leg also developed pain and numbness. She was finally referred to Apollo Hospital, where detailed tests were done, and surgery was advised. The procedure was successful, and Mital was able to walk on the second day without support. Many others like these patients are struggling with back pain and suffering in silence. Remember to report back pain to the doctor as soon as it starts to interfere with your daily routine. Timely management will help to keep the mobility intact and avoid complications.

Dr Kunal Bhardwaj, Microscopic, Endoscopic & Robotic Spine Surgeon, Apollo Spectra Mumbai said, “Earlier, we mostly saw patients over 50, but now even youngsters with severe upper and lower back pain. Currently, there is a surge in cases of back pain among individuals aged 18–65. Many patients ignore back pain until it becomes unbearable. By then, the nerves may already be under pressure, causing serious issues like numbness in hands and legs or even paralysis. Still, fear of surgery stops people from seeking timely help. Patients often delay proper treatment by taking over-the-counter medicines from pharmacies and ignoring upper or lower back pain, without realizing the critical role the spine plays in overall health. Around 80-90% of back pain cases can be managed without surgery through medications and therapy. Only in severe cases where nerve function is affected, one is recommended to undergo surgery to improve the quality of life. Lifestyle changes like quitting smoking, exercising regularly, eating a balanced diet, and maintaining a healthy weight are crucial to preventing back problems.”