Düzce reports rise in spinal injuries during hazelnut season

In Düzce, Turkey, medical professionals are reporting an increase in complaints of neck and back herniated discs and shoulder pain during August and September. This spike coincides with the intensive hazelnut, field, and garden work seasons.

Dr. Mahmud Türk, a Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Specialist at Düzce Atatürk State Hospital, attributes this trend to the sudden increase in physical workload following long periods of inactivity. He noted that muscles that do not engage in regular exercise for most of the year are highly susceptible to injury, pain, and damage when faced with heavy or repetitive tasks.

Dr. Türk explained that what is commonly called a hernia is medically known as disk herniation, occurring when the structures between vertebrae shift from their positions. While factors such as aging, improper movements, heavy labor, and smoking contribute to the condition, the primary issue is often the lack of physical preparation. He emphasized that surgery is only necessary for a small group of patients, typically those experiencing significant neurological symptoms like loss of strength in the limbs.