Experts say nearly half of India’s population faces low back pain at some point. Yet, despite how common it is, many ignore the early signs. “We’re seeing more young adults walk into our clinics with severe back pain,” said Dr Kunal Bhardwaj, a spine surgeon at Apollo Spectra Hospital in Mumbai.

“Most people try to mask the pain with over-the-counter medicines or simply ignore it until it becomes unbearable,” he added.

What’s driving this rise? Today’s lifestyle plays a big role. Many spend long hours sitting at desks, have poor posture, smoke, drink, and rarely exercise. These habits add up and cause serious problems if left untreated. Ignoring back pain can lead to nerve damage, numbness in arms and legs, and even partial paralysis.

The good news? Around 80 to 90 per cent of back pain cases can be managed without surgery using medicine and physiotherapy. Surgery is usually only needed in severe cases where nerve damage occurs.

Take the example of Rukiya Banu from Navi Mumbai. She suffered from back pain for over 10 years but avoided doctors until the pain made her bedridden. After surgery at Apollo Spectra, she regained her mobility and now walks without support, something she hadn’t done in years.

Then there’s Mitali Dewoolkar, a 50-year-old, also from Mumbai. She battled back pain for two and a half years, which left her right leg numb and made balancing difficult. Fear of surgery stopped her from seeking timely help. But after her operation at Apollo, she was back on her feet within two days.

Stories like these aren’t rare. Across India, many suffer quietly, not realising how a simple backache can become a major health issue if ignored.

Doctors warn, don’t ignore persistent back pain. “If it’s affecting your daily life, see a specialist early. Early treatment can save you years of pain and disability,” advises Dr Bhardwaj.”

Your spine is at the heart of your health. Small lifestyle changes like exercising, quitting smoking, keeping a healthy weight, and fixing your posture can help prevent back problems. And if pain does show up, acting quickly improves your chances of recovery, often without surgery.