Inherited Back Pain in Ipswich
by Dr. Amit Patel DC – Ipswich Spine Clinic, Suffolk
We look forward to serving you! Call – 01473 232 002
So often in my office, when meeting a new patient, I hear: “Hi Doc, I would have come sooner, but my back pain is hereditary,” or, “I’ve come for my knee pain, but my back has hurt forever, just like my parents, so I figured nothing can be done. Let’s just fix my knee pain; I can live with the back pain.”
What’s interesting is that many of these patients not only believe their pain is genetically caused, but their doctors have also confirmed it. This often leads to the mindset: “What’s the point of exercising, eating well, or relaxing if the outcome is already determined?”
This sense of inevitability—a self-fulfilling prophecy—has contributed to a real health crisis. The good news is that much of pain and disease is environmental rather than strictly inherited. The responsibility, therefore, lies with our choices, not our genes.
The Human Genome Examined
Do you remember the Human Genome Project? Launched in 1990 and completed thirteen years later at a cost of three billion dollars, its aim was to map every human gene and uncover the genetic causes of illnesses. Early media reports suggested that our genes determined everything, from breast cancer to depression, high blood pressure, and even compulsive behaviors.
However, the findings revealed something remarkable: there aren’t enough genes to explain all human health outcomes. Eric Lander, a leading researcher, stated: “People will think that because genes play a role in something, they determine everything. That’s nonsense. To say something has a genetic component does not make it unchangeable. Whilst our genes determine our health potential, our choices ultimately determine our future health and happiness.”
Even those with a genetic tendency toward certain diseases are not doomed. Genetic mutations, like those seen in Down’s syndrome, do not prevent individuals from living full, happy lives.
Loving the Genes You’re In
The exciting takeaway is that we can make choices that shape our health and wellbeing. Heart attacks, cancers, and back pain are influenced more by lifestyle than inheritance. By making proactive decisions, we can live long, healthy, and happy lives regardless of our genetic makeup.
Choose fresh air over cigarette smoke. Choose the apple instead of the doughnut. Choose a walk instead of hours on social media. Prioritize sleep over late-night TV. Most importantly, maintain your “master control system” with regular chiropractic and nerve system check-ups to optimize your body’s function.
The Bottom Line
After billions of dollars of genetic research, the conclusion is clear: “I am ultimately responsible for my health.” Your future health and quality of life depend less on your parents’ genes and more on the choices you make today. Don’t let inherited beliefs dictate your life. Take control and start making health-conscious decisions now.
Call us today to begin your journey toward optimal health!
For Your Health,
Dr. Amit Patel DC
An Optimal Spine Equals Optimal Health
Ipswich Spine Clinic
Neale Chambers, 6-8 Neale Street
Ipswich, Suffolk, IP1 3JB
Phone: 01473 232 002
