Many people will link smoking to the symptoms of coughing, wheezing and shortness of breath, but for those smokers who complain of discomfort or pain in the lower back, there may well be a correlation between their aches and lighting up a cigarette.
A recent medical study observed that smokers are 3 times more likely to suffer from back pain, including chronic pain.[1]
As we are all aware, smoking has a range of negative effects on the body, but it is the interruption of the body’s transport system and the supply of fresh blood and nutrients to certain areas that can ultimately cause pains in the lower back region.
If you do smoke, it’s important to be aware of the central nervous system risks you may be putting your body through. It’s not just the lungs that suffer when you inhale cigarette smoke, but the general health of your whole body.
For those that decide to stop smoking, there are various ways in which you can immediately help the body adjust to a healthier way of life.
Here are a few tips:
- Drink plenty of water – at least 2-3 litres a day, as it helps to flush nicotine from the body.
- Cut down on caffeine by drinking less tea and coffee. Caffeine acts as a stimulant and induce nervousness.
- Walk briskly for half an hour a day. When you breathe in fresh air, not only will you be more positive, burn up stress and calories and develop more energy and endurance. This is an excellent time to listen to an audiobook or ring a friend!
- Monitor your daily or weekly smoking habit. Can you spot a correlation between your lower back pain and smoking? Even cutting back on your cigarette intake could make a difference to your aches and pain!
- Think positively about what you are doing. Instead of thinking that you are depriving yourself of a cigarette, think of all the good you are doing for your body.
Chiropractors view the body in a holistic manner. Not only do they take your musculoskeletal health into consideration, but your lifestyle factors too. Working alongside you, they can design a plan that can get your health and wellness back on track.
