It is more likely that people suffering with lower back problems will have a spine similar in shape to our closest ape ancestor, the chimpanzee, and the findings could help doctors to predict who may be at risk of developing back problems, researchers say.
The study, published in BMC Evolutionary Biology, saw scientists from Scotland, Iceland and Canada come together to analyse the vertebrae of chimpanzees, orang-utans and ancient human skeletons to discover how the shapes of the bones of the spine, upright movement and the health of the human spine are all linked.
The reason for a chimpanzee’s spine being a different shape is down to a lesion which forms in the disc between the bones of the spine, and this has caused the vertebrae to change shape as humans evolved from walking on two legs rather than four.
Professor Mark Collard, from the University of Aberdeen and Simon Fraser University in Canada, said the findings of the study have provided valuable insights into health and lifestyles of our closest ancestors.
“Our findings show that the vertebrae of humans with disc problems are closer in shape to those of our closest ape relatives, the chimpanzee, than are the vertebrae of humans without disc problems,” he said.
“Our study suggests that the pathological vertebrae of some people may be less well adapted for walking upright.”
The researchers found that those suffering with back problems have a lesion called a Schmorl’s node, which is a small hernia that can occur in the disc between the vertebrae. Although the cause of this hasn’t been identified, it is believed that it could be linked to stress and strain on the lower back.
The findings of this study could help in managing repetitive strain injuries of the back, often caused as a result of an individual’s workplace. If you or your loved one has suffered with RSI of the back as a result of an employer’s negligence, you might be entitled to make a claim for compensation. Visit our dedicated website www.repetitive-straininjury.co.uk for more information or call 0800 028 2060 to speak with a member of our team.