Smoking and Its Effect On Your Back Pain

When you think about the side effects of smoking, what comes to mind? You might picture yellow teeth or difficulty breathing. You might even think of more severe repercussions, like the heightened risk for lung diseases and strokes. 

But the fallout doesn’t stop there. In fact, a mounting body of evidence points to a lesser-talked-about side effect of smoking: back pain. 

If you’re a smoker with back pain, come visit Patrick S Hill, MD, in Beverly Grove, Los Angeles, California. He works with you to find relief from your discomfort as you explore quitting smoking. With options ranging from physical therapy and medication to surgery, he can help you find what’s right for your back. 

But first, you might be wondering: why does smoking cause back pain? Let’s take a closer look. 

Smoking, your body, and your back

Experts think that the link between back pain and smoking comes down to your blood vessels. Specifically, smoking tobacco products means interacting with ingredients that cause arterial damage. 

This makes it more challenging for your arteries to deliver nutrients where your body needs them — including in your back. As a result, smoking makes you more likely to encounter degenerative issues in your lower spine. 

One specific nutrient likely plays a significant role. When you smoke, your body has a more challenging time making and using vitamin D. And vitamin D deficiency is a known contributor to low back pain — the more deficient you are, the more pain you’re likely to experience. 

If you’re curious if smoking could be to blame for your back pain, check in with your legs. Smokers with this issue often also have pain in the part of their leg below the knee. 

Getting relief from your back pain

Quitting smoking won’t relieve your back pain overnight, but it can make your back pain less intense. If you’re ready to quit, SmokeFree.gov has some great resources. It can help you build an actionable plan to kick the habit.

Most people who quit smoking have lapses from time to time. That’s okay. They shouldn’t cause an immediate spike in your back pain. Ideally, the improvement you’ll feel in your back will be enough to motivate you to toss that pack and get back on your quit plan. 

To help you find back pain relief faster, Dr. Hill is here. With expertise in a variety of back pain treatments, he can help you explore your options and find what works to ease your discomfort. 

If you’re ready to get started, call our office or schedule your appointment with Dr. Hill online today.