Smoking and back pain can be linked, according to a new study.

Researchers in Finland analysed 81 studies of back pain carried out around the world and found that there was a correlation between smoking and cases of back pain.

Although it did not state that this implies a direct causal link, the study found that those who smoke were more likely to develop lower back problems than non-smokers, with the likelihood greater amongst those who start to light up at a young age.

One possible reason the scientists identified for the link was that smoking may reduce the flow of blood to the spine.

Those suffering back problems - whether they smoke or not - may find that ultrasound treatment helps ease their discomfort.

In a recent interview with the Daily Mail, lower back pain suffer Mark Sappol explained how having nerves close to his compressed discs burned out helped stop the pain he had been feeling.