Many studies have been done on low back pain and disc problems. It's true that women with jobs that involve a lot of sitting are at greater risk than men in similar positions for disc problems. It's also true that accidental back injuries increase a person's risk of disc injury regardless of gender.

Risk factors for developing disc problems include motor vehicle accidents, smoking, evening or night-shift work, and genetic factors. Work stress and lack of physical activity during leisure time increase the risk of disc problems.