Spinal conditions such as herniated discs are closely related to unhealthy lifestyle habits. However, not all spinal diseases are caused by acquired factors. Genetic factors cannot be ignored either.

 

A herniated disc occurs when the disc (intervertebral disc) that absorbs shock between the vertebrae protrudes and compresses the nerve. The exact cause has not yet been identified. However, it is known that the incidence increases with age, and the risk is higher for those who frequently lift heavy objects as part of their job or spend long periods sitting.

 

Genetic factors cannot be ruled out either. In fact, many research findings suggest that spinal diseases are significantly influenced by genetic factors. A study conducted by a research team at the University of Alberta in Canada analyzed 115 pairs of male identical twins who used their backs with varying intensity throughout their lives. The results showed that the combined effect of the amount of back use and age on lower lumbar disc degeneration was only 11%. In contrast, the contribution of genetic factors was as high as 43%. Additionally, a Japanese research team discovered a gene that causes lumbar disc disease.

However, in spinal diseases, genetic factors should be understood as indirectly influencing rather than directly causing the disease. For example, there are individuals with a constitution that is more prone to disc damage. In particular, the width of the spinal canal and the shape of the posterior joints that support the spine from behind are heavily influenced by genetics. If someone is born with a constitution that makes their vertebrae, muscles, ligaments, or discs weaker, their risk of developing spinal diseases may be higher than that of others.

 

Innate body type can also cause spinal diseases. If you are naturally thin, you may have relatively less muscle mass, which causes the spine to bear the full load. Director Ji Gyu-yeol of Yonsei Hana Hospital said, "Obese body types are the same," and "Obese individuals have a lot of weight compared to their limited muscle mass, which continuously exerts significant pressure on the spine and can accelerate degenerative changes."

 

Genetic factors are difficult to change, but environmental factors can be corrected. If you have had a sedentary lifestyle since childhood, you may habitually continue to sit in that manner as an adult. Sitting on the floor instead of at a table or on a sofa causes the back to slouch, putting significant pressure on the spine and discs. These lifestyle habits can be sufficiently improved through personal effort.

 

You should also be cautious about indoor lifestyle habits. Since movement is limited indoors, muscles and ligaments become stiff and muscle strength weakens. Watching smartphones or TV for long periods is also a lifestyle habit that harms back health. In terms of back health, it is crucial not to maintain the same posture for a long time.

 

===========

There may also be genetic factors, but

The biggest problem is probably incorrect lifestyle habits.

Once the spine is misaligned

Shoulder, waist, hips, thighs

The pain is gradually coming on.

 

Good posture and walking correctly are also important.