A study from Denmark has indicated that a person's genetic make-up can increase their susceptibility to neck or back pain in later life.

Examining data from more than 15,000 twins aged 20 to 71, researchers at the University of Southern Denmark found that genetic factors appear to make some people more likely to suffer chronic pain in their neck and back, Reuters reports.

Traditional views state that back pain among older people is generally the product of "wear and tear" to the spinal discs, but these findings challenge that wisdom.

Lead researcher Dr Jan Hartvigsen told the news agency that there are currently more "chronic spine pain sufferers" in the world than ever before.

He added: "So far, we have not - in spite of millions of dollars spent - been able to effectively prevent the most common forms of back and neck pain."

Dr Hartvigsen's research found that genetic susceptibility accounted for just under 40 per cent of variation in the risk of lower back pain among individuals, with similar results for middle back pain and neck pain.

Overstretched muscles are often the cause of lower back strains, which can lead to muscle spasms.

Ultrasound can be used to treat back problems by increasing blood flow to reduce local swelling and chronic inflammation.