Author: Dr. Kirsten Strudwick (Chiropractor)
Young adults are collectively suffering from back problems and back pains, especially lately. The British Chiropractic Association reports 50% of 18-24 year olds have experienced them in the past 2 years. In this 50% over 1/3 were fully unable to work due to back complications. It was reported that 14% of them were not working for almost a year.
Additionally, the Global Burden of Disease study reports that lower back pain cases are on the rise. By 2050, a 36.4% rise in low back pain cases is projected. Let’s take a look at some of the innovative health startups who are tackling the back pain problem.
First, why is back pain so common?
Back pain is on the rise. But why?
A few things could contribute to this.
We are now a much more sedentary workforce than a few decades ago. Many young people spend extended hours sitting for work, study, social media, or gaming. Prolonged sitting can lead to stiffness and discomfort.
It’s quite alarming to note that back pain and other musculoskeletal issues are on the rise due to how we are working, and from the lack of physical activity and movement that our jobs are causing us.
And all in the name of making bank.
Additionally, the remote work trend isn’t all it is talked up to be. The shift to remote work has resulted in poor ergonomics, as many people are working from unsuitable setups such as beds or sofas.
With all this inactivity, there is a lack of regular physical activity. This, in turn, can lead to weakening muscles and contribute to back problems.
Find out more about lower back pain here.
Innovative solutions for back pain
It’s not all bad news. There are a lot of health tech startups out there that are innovating in this space. They are going about it to improve the burden of back pain though tech, data and
1) Kaia Health
Kaia Health uses a mobile app to provide personalised exercises for back pain relief. The app offers the following features.
Guided exercise routines
Users receive customised exercise plans tailored to their specific needs and pain levels. Experts in medicine created these routines to effectively target and treat back pain.
Education content
The app provides extensive educational resources about back pain, including its causes, prevention strategies, and treatment options. This helps users understand their condition better and adopt healthier habits.
Progress tracking
Kaia Health includes a progress tracking feature that allows users to monitor their improvements over time. This feature helps users stay motivated and see the benefits of their efforts.
Pain management techniques
In addition to exercises, the app offers techniques and tips for managing pain on a daily basis, including mindfulness and relaxation exercises.
2) SpineZone
SpineZone’s proven Medical Fitness Program is now accessible to patients everywhere.
Each day for 6 weeks the patient is required to complete up to 3 simple tasks, taking a total of 5-10 minutes. The experience is meticulously designed to make it delightfully easy to comply with the program.
SpineZone focuses on a comprehensive approach to back pain management. Their services include:
- Online physical therapy sessions.
- Personalised exercise plans.
- Access to a team of back pain specialists.
3) Hinge Health
Hinge Health is a digital health platform that offers personalised exercise therapy and coaching to treat chronic musculoskeletal conditions, such as back and joint pain, through a combination of wearable sensors, app-based exercises, and remote physical therapist support.
Hinge Health combines wearable technology with expert support. Their program includes:
- Wearable sensors to guide exercises.
- Virtual physical therapy sessions.
- A dedicated care team for personalised support.
4) Upright Technologies
Upright Technologies develops wearable devices and mobile apps to improve posture. Their products use real-time biofeedback to train users to maintain correct posture, helping to alleviate back pain and prevent future musculoskeletal issues.The key features of their online solution includes:
- A wearable device that provides posture feedback.
- Real-time posture correction reminders.
- A mobile app to track posture improvements.
5) Qunomedical
Qunomedical is a digital health platform connecting patients with high-quality, affordable medical care worldwide. It offers access to top doctors and clinics, providing personalised treatment plans and support for various medical procedures and treatments.
They’ve made top healthcare accessible to almost anyone. Patients can choose from over 1,000 doctors in 25+ countries, all vetted by Qunomedical. Key features on their platform include:
- Access to back pain treatment options.
- Expert online consultations.
- Quality care at affordable prices.
Managing and preventing back pain
If you experience back pain, here are some pointers you should consider to deal with and care for back pain.
- Take 20-30 minute breaks between work sessions
- Create a comfortable and solid working space, as an office worker, especially
- Mobility exercises to loosen the joints and muscles
- Consult with professionals and businesses who focus on treating back problems, especially in severe cases.
Listening to your body is so important when identifying problem areas and conditions such as these. If you experience back pain, there are several treatment options available to help you.
Disclaimer: This article is created and published online for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice and should not be relied on as health or personal advice.