
Risks associated with smoking
- High increase for many cancers
- Increased risk for heart disease
- Injury/s, wound/s take longer to heal
- Increased risk of infection after surgery
- Aggravating pre-existing health conditions like asthma
- Chronic back pain
Chronic pain and blood vessels
Smoking can generate general body pain that can overwhelm the vascular system. These are the blood vessels that include:- Arteries
- Capillaries
- Veins

- Smoking contributes to continued inflammation, which can increase pain
- It can interfere with prescribed medications for pain management/other conditions
- Proper absorption of minerals, nutrients, chemicals, medications, is disrupted
- Damage to the spinal discs and facet joints

Back Pain Worsened
There are spinal conditions like dried out/desiccated discs, or osteoporosis, that could’ve been caused or worsened through smoking.Degenerative Disc Disease
Smoking is connected to the development of this disease, also known as disc dehydration. Smoke toxins, as well as, nicotine contributes to dehydrated discs and the cellular damage done to the vascular system.Osteoporosis
It is associated with a higher risk of osteoporosis/thin bones, which can lead to an increased risk for spinal fractures.Fibromyalgia
Individuals that smoke and have fibromyalgia report intensified symptoms, quality of life is worse, and an increase in anxiety compared to non-smokers with fibromyalgia.Spinal Fusion
Smoking can delay or prevent proper healing/fusion when trying to permanently connect the vertebrae. The negative impacts can lead to worse surgical outcomes.Sleep and Mood
It can also negatively influence mood and sleep quality. It is a vicious cycle for individuals that are depressed, have pain, or anxiety. Because of the tendency to smoke more in order to cope. However, this is very unhealthy and only leads to worse pain and other health issues.
Quitting
It can absolutely be done with the right resources. Various therapies can help an individual to quit smoking.- Medications
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy
- Hypnosis
- Acupuncture
- Chiropractic for spinal alignment and blood circulation