The Southeastern Spine Institute

hereditary back issues Millions of Americans suffer from back pain every day. In fact, Americans spend an estimated $50 billion yearly on treating back pain. The causes of back problem vary, but new research has revealed some startling findings that medical experts hope will bring relief to many of the millions who suffer.

A study on two million Utah locals shows hereditary back issues may be one of the main reasons why some individuals develop back pain, especially pain in the lower back. The study showed that having a close relative — like a brother, mother, sister or father — suffer from back pain has a direct relationship to your pain. The sooner you consult a medical spine specialist about your back pain, the sooner you can see if hereditary back issues are the cause of your pain.

Risks of Hereditary Back Issues

Your DNA determines many of the physical characteristics you expect in your lifetime. If an immediate family member is suffering from back pain, for example, you’re four times more likely to develop back pain. But the risk doesn’t diminish even when second-degree relatives like an aunt or uncle or grandparent is the sufferer. Or for that matter, third-degree relatives like cousins.

Your lower spine is the most obviously affected part of your back when it comes to hereditary back issues. So if you have a family history of back pain, it’s most likely that disc-related lower back problems are going to be imminent in your future.

Symptoms to Track

While there are a myriad of symptoms associated with back pain, the most common hereditary back issues are similar to the complaints your spinal doctor hears daily. These back pain symptoms include:

  • Pain when bending or twisting your spine, especially when lifting something heavy
  • A sense of feeling unstable and unable to hold your neck and back properly
  • Restrictive basic movements that limit your daily life and exercise routines
  • Muscle tension or muscular spasms that cause severe pain
  • Radiating, sharp, stabbing or hot pain in your back — and sometimes in your hips, in your buttocks and down the back of your leg
  • Increased pain while sitting or standing for long periods of time

Lower back pain can severely limit your mobility and your lifestyle. If you watched one of your parents or grandparents struggle with mobility, talk to your doctors at the Southeastern Spine Institute about your chances of ending up in a similar situation. Don’t wait until you suffer excruciating pain. Get preventative treatment to remain free from pain.

Be Alert to Back Pain

Back pain can be difficult to diagnose when there is no physical injury involved. Some patients report that the pain comes and goes, especially when located in their lower back. Back pain can be deceptive because even though you may not feel any pain, sometimes serious damage is taking place in your lower back due to degenerative disc disease. When you know of a family history, simple imaging tests can alert your doctor to potential problems.

Hereditary back issues cause symptoms similar to normal back pain. And women especially are more susceptible to lower back pain due to hormonal complications. A thorough medical history reveals your genetic risks. Knowing your family history with back problems helps ensure realistic risks. A plan of action to combat future back issues can begin earlier rather than later, giving you years of pain-free activity.