Bulging and herniated discs are two of the most common conditions we treat at our clinic, and part of the reason for that is because a number of familiar factors play into their onset. Certain lifestyle choices and regular activities can put us at a heightened risk for herniated discs, so it’s important that we acknowledge these factors and work to prevent them. Below, we take a look at five common factors that increase your risk of herniating a spinal disc.
1. Your Job
Do you work a physically demanding job or one that requires repetitive movements? If so, you’re likely at an elevated risk for spinal disc herniation. Regular stress or repetitive strain on the spine can lead to disc shifting. Activity and exercise can be great for your spine, but overstress and repetitive movements can increase your herniation risk.
2. Sedentary Life
Think that your desk job will keep you safe from a herniated spinal disc? Think again. If you live a sedentary life, muscles and other tissues that stabilize the spine can weaken, making it easier for discs to shift out of place. Even if you have ideal posture at your desk, you still need to remain active outside the office. Strive to exercise regularly to help develop muscles that will support your spine during activity and while you’re seated.
3. Your Weight
Being heavier also ends up putting extra stress on your spine, and this pressure can serve to break down spinal discs sooner. When these discs break down and lose their normal height, they can become less stable and more prone to shifting. The good news is that weight loss helps to take this stress off your spine and can reduce your risk of disc herniation, so it’s a very controllable factor.
4. Poor Posture
If you have bad posture, your lumbar and cervical spinal discs will have to handle more stress, and this can lead to disc height loss. Common places where people have poor posture include:
- While driving
- While watching television
- At their desk
- While lifting heavy items
- While running
5. Genetics and Gender
Not all of the factors on this list are controllable, and that includes things like our genetics and our gender. Patients with a family history of degenerative disc disease are at a heightened risk for disc herniation, as are males. Again, if you are aware of this risk, you can do more to proactively prevent a herniation.
If any of these factors are present in your life and you’re dealing with moderate to severe back discomfort, reach out to a spine specialist to see if you could be dealing with a disc issue and the best ways to treat it. In the greater Twin Cities area, reach out to Dr. Sinicropi’s office today.
