VISAKHAPATNAM: With the incidence of spine ailments on the rise in recent years, including among the younger age group, there’s an increased demand for specialist doctors in the field of spine surgery.
With a view to imparting education and training to young ortho and neuro surgeons and thereby improving patient care in the sub-specialty of spine surgery and treatment, orthopaedic surgeons have also formed the Spine Society of Andhra Pradesh (SSAP). The society is now gearing up to host the state’s first international conference on spine surgery at Visakhapatnam to discuss the latest treatment modalities.
Spine surgeons point out that unlike earlier days, spine-related problems are no longer confined to just old people or those suffering from congenital defects or spinal fractures due to trauma and accidents. Lifestyle, work ergonomics and lack of physical activities and fitness are other factors causing spine problems among the younger, working group, even those in their 30s and 40s. 
Dr B Udayakumar, professor and head of the department of orthopaedics, Andhra Medical College and King George Hospital, said, “Spine problems can be seen in all age groups, especially among the old due to spinal degenerative spondylitis or due to weakening of bones and osteoporosis. But of late, many from the young, working group too are suffering from spine-related ailments mainly due to the lack of physical activity and sitting posture.”