Obesity may contribute to spinal disorders

AORN Journal,  July, 2005  

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An increasing number of patients who are obese are being treated for spine-related disorders, according to a May 25, 2005, news release from the North American Spine Society. A survey of spine care professionals found that 44% of the patients they see are considered obese, an increase of nearly 67% from five years ago. Of spine professionals surveyed, 87% agree that obesity plays a significant rote in back pain, and 94% said that they recommend weight loss as a treatment option for their patients who are obese. In follow-up treatment for patients who lose weight, 55% found a significant improvement in their patients' symptoms.

The three most common diagnoses for spinal disorders in patients who are obese include degenerative disc disease (ie, wear and tear of the disc), spondylotisthesis (ie, slippage in the lower back from wear and tear), and disc rupture or herniation. Patients who are obese also have an increased risk of developing spondylolysis (ie, fracture in the vertebrae) and spinal stenosis (ie, narrowing of the spinal canal).

Physical activity is the treatment most often prescribed for spine hearth because a patient's back joints and discs rely on motion to keep them healthy. Patients who are overweight often suffer from muscle atrophy caused by inactivity, which worsens back symptoms and problems.

North American Spine Society Unveils 2005 Patient Education Campaign--Take a Load Off Your Back! (news release, La Grange, Ill: North American Spine Society, May 25, 2005).

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