Research has shown for many years that there is a link
between smoking and an increased risk for lower back pain. A study by the
Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery (JBJS) in December 2012 found that smokers
suffering from spinal disorders and related back pain reported greater
discomfort than those patients who stopped smoking during an eight month
treatment period.
Almost all adults
will at some time see a doctor about back pain or other painful spinal
disorders. Smoking has been identified as a modifiable risk factor for chronic
pain disorders and those who quit smoking before the study reported
significantly less pain when compared with those who did not quit smoking.
Nicotine increases
pain and this study conclusively shows that there is a relationship between
smoking and pain. Regardless of the treatment you have, the likelihood to
improve your care is dramatically decreased if you are a smoker.
This study supports the need for smoking cessation programs for patients with spinal conditions.
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