When it comes to smoking severe health complications always follow. In a study published in the National Institute of Health the correlation between smoking and low back pain was explored. With a relatively large survey group this study examined data of 34,000 adults who were current smokers, former smokers, and never smokers. The findings concluded a direct increase of low back pain in adult Americans who were smokers. This in large part may be caused by disc degeneration and spinal instability as indicated by an earlier study. also indicate that smoking is linked to lumbar degenerative disc disease. While these results seem quite alarming the good news is that by quitting smoking cigarettes and making healthy lifestyle decisions chronic pain relief is possible.
In fact, physical activity and exercise are key parts of a program to quit tobacco and get rid of aches and pains. Exercise can help you lower your level of stress and keep your weight in control after quitting—both of which will make it easier to stick to your new tobacco-free life.
The most common benefits of physical activity and exercise are:
- Improved emotional and physical well-being
- Lowered risk of high blood sugar, heart disease, high cholesterol, and high blood pressure
- Body weight management
- Increased energy level
- Improved self-image
- Strengthened heart, lungs, bones, and muscles
- Increased strength and joint movement
If your goal is to live tobacco-free, activity can:
- Help replace the habit of smoking or chewing
- Help lower stress and help you to relax
- Improve your mood
- Help lessen depression
- Improve your body’s ability to heal from tobacco damage
- Increase motivation toward healthy actions
- Build confidence
- Help lessen nicotine cravings
Follow these tips for getting active while quitting:
- Talk with your medical doctor before starting any new exercise program.
- Start slowly.
- Turn daily activities into exercise.
- Plan to exercise during the times you used to use tobacco.
- Work up to at least 30 minutes daily.
- Set goals.
- Track your progress.
After you’ve been active for a while, you may start to notice changes in your body and in the way, you feel. Your nicotine cravings likely won’t be as strong as they used to be. You may even start to crave healthy activity—not a nicotine high.
Your muscles may become stronger and more toned. You will be able to deal with stress and face challenges more easily. And your heart and lungs can start to heal from tobacco use.
If you still are suffering from back pain or it is becoming a chronic issue don’t hesitate to reach out to The Center for Total Back Care for a free consultation schedule online or call us at (480) 633-8293 today!