A recent study in the Journal of Public Health indicates that adolescents who experience frequent back pain are also more likely to use tobacco and alcohol, and report problems like anxiety and depression.

During adolescence, the prevalence of back pain in particular rises steeply. Although often not taken seriously by the parents or caregivers, adolescent back pain is responsible for substantial health care use, school absence, and interference with day-to-day activities in some children.

Back pain and unhealthy behaviors not only occur together, but also track into adulthood. This means that they are responsible for current issues, and also have implications for future health. Adolescent back pain may play a role in characterizing poor overall health, and risk of chronic disease throughout life.

The researchers involved with the study believe this is of concern because the developing brain may be susceptible to negative influences of toxic substances, and use in early adolescence may increase the risk of substance abuse and mental health problems in later life.

Doctors of Chiropractic (Chiropractors) are experts in treating back pain in teenagers and adults alike (younger children, too). Teenagers with back pain can often find relief under the care of a chiropractor, an expert in the field, just as so many adults do.

Presented as a service to the community by: Union County Chiropractic Clinic, 110 Skyline Drive, Maynardville, TN (865) 992-7000 www.unioncountychiropractic.com.