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Is Pain in the Neck and Back a Typical Aspect of Aging?

Did you know that your spine is the backbone of your body? Yes, it is an important structural framework of your entire body. However, aging may affect the parts of the spine which involves the neck and back. Aging is a natural process and can affect different parts of the body. One such part of the body which deteriorates with aging is the neck and back. However, the good news is that the process and effects of aging can be slowed down and delayed with lifestyle modifications.

With this, GS Hospital, the best hospital in Ghaziabad takes an initiative to shed light on the aging aspect affecting neck and back amongst the senior citizens of the nation. The hospital offers excellent geriatric orthopedic care with a team of the Best General Physicians in Ghaziabad which makes it the best hospital in Meerut. So, if you have been battling with neck and back issues due to aging, you are on the right page with us to put an end to your problem under the direct care and expertise of Top General Physicians in Meerut with GS Hospital.

In this blog, we shall provide you with valuable insights on neck and back pain due to aging. Let’s begin!

Causes of neck and back pain in old age:

It has been noted that the majority of problems of neck and back pain crop up between 40 and 60 years of age. The main causes of neck and back pain are as follows:

Disc degeneration: Discs are gel-like cushions that work as a shock absorber for the joints. This is specifically seen in between the vertebrae of the spine. This disc may degenerate due to wear and tear of joints. It is one of the most common reasons for pain in the neck and back seen in the elderly age group. Sometimes, the disc may also dry out and become less spongy with the inability to absorb shock causing friction and pain.

Disc herniation: The disc between the vertebrae may get herniated at times leading to slip disc due to any form of injury to the neck or back. This may result in compression of the nerve causing pain. A herniated disc may occur due to aging as the cartilage becomes weak.

Lack of collagen: Due to aging, there may be a lack of collagen formation in the body. The cartilage or the disc between the vertebrae loses collagen causing the disc to degenerate over the years. This results in friction between the vertebrae causing neck and back pain affecting the spine.

Lack of vitamins and minerals Lack of vitamin D and calcium results in the softening of bones causing porous bones. This causes osteoporosis and osteopenia leading to reduced bone density with aging, thus making the musculoskeletal system more prone to fractures.

Auto-immune conditions: High-stress levels cause a spike of stress hormones called cortisol. This occurs due to chronic build-up of stress over the years with aging. Cortisol causes the release of inflammatory factors causing body pain. This is commonly seen in cases of rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus, and polyarthritis.

Muscle loss: As we age, there is major muscle loss with time. This is mainly due to protein depletion in the body. Loss of protein may cause the neck and back muscles to become weak causing pain. The most common cause of muscle pain is fibromyalgia.

Lack of blood circulation: Neck and back pain may also occur due to lack of blood circulation. This is mainly triggered by a lack of movement, a sedentary lifestyle, and cervical or lumbar problems leading to spinal stenosis causing radiating pain and numbness from the spine to the upper extremities.

Health issues that cause neck and back pain due to aging:

The main health issues related to neck and back pain due to aging are as follows:

• Disc issues like cervical and lumbar spondylosis
• Autoimmune disorders like rheumatoid arthritis
• Arthritis of the neck and back due to aging
• Injuries or trauma to the neck
• Carrying heavy shoulder bags
• Prolonged repeated activities with overuse of neck and lower back joints
• Physical strain
• Poor posture

Symptoms of neck problem:

The common symptoms of the neck problems are as follows:

• Pain
• Morning stiffness
• Tingling and numbness in upper and lower extremities
• Muscle stiffness
• Tightness of the neck and back
• Muscle spasm
• Limited range of motion
• Restricted activity of the neck
• Neck and shoulder tenderness
• Loss of balance of upper extremities
• Headaches
• Vertigo and dizziness

Treatment of the neck issues:

The treatment of the neck issues are as follows:

• Painkillers and anti-inflammatories
• Physical therapy
• Exercises
• Ultrasound, ice, and heat therapy
• Rest
• Acupuncture therapy
• Supplements
• Surgery

Spinal aging is a real fact of life and cannot be ignored. But it can be dealt with in the right manner. It is important to consult your doctor before you get started with any treatment to treat the neck pain. Avoid using any OTC or over-the-counter medications or any other self-medications.

Tips to maintain a healthy spine at every age:

Here are the best tips to maintain a healthy spine at every age:

• The standard health tip for a healthy spine is to rest when required
• It is important to move your body and exercise regularly to strengthen your back
• Blood circulation is a must for healthy spine and back muscles with regular stretches
• Maintaining good posture at work and sleep is important for your spine
• Controlling your weight by maintaining a good BMI is essential
• Consuming a healthy and nutrition diet with protein-rich food is a must
• Drink a good amount of water for optimum hydration levels to avoid any spasms and cramps
• Practice good posture, body mechanics and ergonomic solutions with the right mattress and chair to improve spine stability
• Avoid strenuous activities that involve back injury or strain
• It is important to manage stress
• At work, it is important to set your computer and laptop at eye level to comfort your neck
• Avoid any kind of addiction and quit smoking or alcohol right away!
• Ensure to take your supplements to maintain good levels of vitamins and minerals as per your doctor’s prescription
• Regular check-ups and routine blood tests are very important to check your vitamin D and calcium levels. Other tests such as bone density scan can also be done as suggested by your doctor.
• Use joint protection and supportive therapy like knee pads to cushion your knees to avoid pressure on the knees.
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