Age-related spinal injuries 'can appear in teen years'RSS Feed

Age-related spinal injuries appear as early as the teenage years for some people, an expert has revealed.

Degenerative disc disease "happens to everyone" but at different times and to varying degrees, according to Tracy Ouelette, writing for the Bellingham Herald, a newspaper based in the American state of Washington.

"As we age, the discs between the bones dry out and flatten or bulge, the ligaments may become stiffer and bone spurs may form, changing the structure and flexibility of the spine," she stated.

Ms Oulette, a rehabilitation expert at Physiatry Associates in Bellingham, pointed out that these type of age-related changes are most commonly seen in the neck or lower back, where the majority of movement occurs.

Her tips for reducing the risk of degenerative disc disease include avoiding smoking, maintaining good general fitness and maintaining a regular stretching routine.

According to the NHS, exercise can be an excellent way to prevent back pain and to alleviate any existing discomfort, but it stresses that anyone suffering from chronic back pain should consult their doctor before attempting any exercises.

Serious Law, leading spinal cord injury solicitors

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