Side view of Asian female nurse helping senior Caucasian male patient for back pain at retirement home

‘’According to Canadian Chiropractic Association’’, back pain and other musculoskeletal (MSK) conditions affect a staggering number of people in Canada and around the world, so many that it can be considered an epidemic.

In Canada alone, these statistics from a 2009 report published by the Work Foundation are attention getting:

  • 1 in 8 Canadians report having chronic back problems
  • 12% of Canadians report pain or discomfort that prevents activity
  • 31% of Canadians report activity limitations because of pain and discomfort
  • 12% of Canadians missed work because of an episode of back pain
  • MSK pain is the second most common reason for Canadians to visit a GP
  • 25% of Canadians visited an MD because of an MSK condition
  • 5 out of 10 Canadians experienced back pain in the past 6 months
  • 11 million Canadians suffer from an MSK condition
  • By 2031, an expected 15 million Canadians will suffer from MSK conditions

If you have never experienced an episode of low back pain, odds are that, at some point, either you or someone you know will suffer from an MSK condition. Further, if you have experienced back pain in the past, it is likely that you will suffer from another episode within a couple of years. While this doesn’t necessarily mean there is a serious underlying pathology, you may want to seek prompt assessment and treatment. Recurring episodes of back pain may be attributable to mechanical dysfunctions that can be managed with conservative care and even exercise.

 

Who is most likely to suffer back pain?

Various studies from around the world show that, while back pain can affect anyone, there are five triggers that are commonly associated with back pain and other musculoskeletal conditions. These include:

  1. Heavy Lifting
  2. Sedentary Lifestyle
  3. Aging
  4. Poor Diet
  5. Smoking

We can’t always control environmental factors or work demands, but we can make lifestyle changes that can have a huge impact on healing and prevention, such as quitting smoking, integrating regular exercise and movement into our daily routines, and eating healthy foods to help prevent inflammation.

In the coming weeks, this series will examine some of the daily habits and lifestyle factors that contribute to back pain and other MSK conditions, including smoking, sedentarism and general inflammation. We will also provide easy and practical tips to help you improve your musculoskeletal health and quality of life.

 

Reference:

https://www.chiropractic.ca/

www.theworkfoundation.com

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Royal York Chiropractic (416) 233-5413
4.9 6
Dundas Street West Toronto Ontario M8X 1Y3
  • What a great experience to work with Dr Peter. He’s so thorough, so knowledgeable and so great at explaining why and what he’s doing. The orthotics that he prescribed and ordered for me have made a big difference! Highly recommended.
  • I started going to Dr. Marco back in January 2020 when I was suffering a lower back injury. After seeing the reviews on google, I decided to give him a chance and I haven't looked back. Dr. Marco has helped me in my recovery and brought me back to feeling healthier than ever. He is extremely knowledgeable, kind and easy to talk too. Not to mention, the prices are very reasonable and not overpriced. I highly recommend him to anyone looking for a chiropractor in Etobicoke.
  • I have been seeing Dr. Marco for many years now and he helps me each time I see him. He’s friendly, knowledgeable and has a level of clinical awareness that comes from years of experience which helps to create an overall positive interaction. Making appointments is never an issue and the clinic environment is welcoming and relaxing. Highly recommend him!
  • Royal York Chiropractic was recommended to me by multiple people, so I decided to give it a go for my back and shoulder problems. My first experience with Dr. Marco was extremely positive. He is very knowledgeable and easy to talk to. His honesty and commitment to improving my pain is what kept me coming back. Very positive experience!
  • I have had very positive experiences with Royal York Chiropractic. While Dr. Peter has predominantly been overseeing my care, I have had adjustments with Dr. Marco as well. Both are competent, caring, friendly and willing to answer questions. Anna keeps the office well-organized and the few times I've had to wait, it has never been for long.