Spinal conditions are rapidly increasing among the population, with a notable shift towards younger demographics. Data from Military Hospital 175 reveals that individuals aged 35-45 are now commonly seeking treatment for spinal issues, a condition previously prevalent among the elderly. This trend places a crucial working-age population at serious health risk. Colonel, Doctor Phan Dinh Mung, Deputy Director of Military Hospital 175, highlighted this issue at the training program "Updating Trends in Clinical Application of Endoscopic Spinal Surgery" on 1/2, attributing the rise to two key factors of modern life: obesity and prolonged sitting.

Doctor Mung explained that excess weight significantly burdens the spine, particularly the lumbar region, accelerating the progression of injuries. Furthermore, a sedentary lifestyle, characterized by prolonged sitting and minimal physical activity, acts as a "silent enemy," contributing to conditions like herniated discs, thickened ligamentum flavum, and spinal stenosis.

Doctors and medical staff from the Orthopedic and Traumatology Institute, Military Hospital 175, in an operating room. *Photo: Quynh Tran*

To mitigate the need for surgery, individuals should actively protect their spinal health. This involves maintaining a healthy weight, adopting a balanced diet, and ensuring adequate micronutrient intake for bone and joint health. During work, it is important to sit with proper posture, keeping the back straight and the screen at eye level. Additionally, changing positions every 30-45 minutes can significantly reduce strain on the spine and its supporting musculature.

Further preventive measures include avoiding improper heavy lifting and sudden bending movements. Regular physical activity, particularly exercises that strengthen the back, abdominal, and core muscles, is vital for spinal stability and preventing back pain. For those participating in sports, proper warm-ups, correct technique, and avoiding overexertion are essential.

When conservative treatments prove insufficient and surgical intervention becomes necessary, modern medicine offers advanced solutions. The conference showcased one-port and two-port endoscopic techniques, which boast minimal invasiveness, reduced pain, fewer complications, and quicker patient recovery compared to conventional open surgery. Younger doctors had the opportunity to practice these techniques on artificial bone models (Sawbone) and observe live surgical demonstrations.

Le Phuong