Smoking Can Cause Or Worsen Back Pain

Smoking Can Cause Or Worsen Back Pain

Cigarettes Contain Elements That Deteriorates The Intervertebral Disks And Increase The Risk Of Osteoporosis

According to specialists, smoking can cause or worsen back pain. One of the main causes for back pain is sitting for an excessive time, or performing an improper movement when lifting a heavy object. However, a study revealed that smoking also caused or worsened back pain, in comparison to non-smokers. The most common condition related to back pain is called degenerative disk disease. The spinal disks act as shock absorbers in the spine, working as cushions between the vertebrae. However, these disks can deteriorate with age. Nicotine is also responsible for disk deterioration, damaging to annulus and nucleus cells with its toxicity, impeding the functionality of the disc in the long term. Among these toxins are fatal elements, such as carcinogens like benzene, metals like arsenic, lead and cadmium, and toxic chemicals like carbon monoxide, hydrogen cyanide, and ammonia. Smoking also reduces calcium absorption and increases the risk of osteoporosis. More details click here.