A space mission can be a literal pain in the back for astronauts. Dr. Paez shares that the constant microgravity and weightlessness experienced in space causes the muscles of the spine to weaken and the spine to expand.
Dr. Paez says, "Here on earth our spine is compressed by gravity while we stand. While astronauts are in space the spine is never compressed and causes and expansion, which triggers pain."
Further, Dr. Paez shares, "Astronauts have been experiencing back pain since space missions grew longer in duration during the 1980's. The pain usually does not resolve when they return to earth. In fact, studies indicate astronauts have over a 4% increased risk of herniated disks."
MRI scans pre and post space mission show almost a 20% decrease in muscle tone during flight. This continues to be a concern for scientists and physicians as longer space flights to Mars could take 8-9 months just to reach the planet.
Exercise programs are a focus for future space missions and studying whether these can be effective to retaining muscle tone and reducing pain. Exercise such as yoga and core strengthening are a few of the programs astronauts in the International Space Station are participating in.
