Lower Back Pain Diagnosises

In the assessment of lower back pain, differential diagnosis utilizing a "triage" concept of classifying low back injuries into one of three categories helps to guide the doctor of chiropractic. Click below to read more:

http://www.spine-health.com/treatment/chiropractic/chiropractic-diagnosis

Rhode Island Spine Problem Help

 There are many different terms used to describe spinal disc pathology and associated pain, such as "herniated disc", "pinched nerve", and "bulging disc", and all are used differently by doctors. Learn the difference:

http://www.spine-health.com/conditions/herniated-disc/whats-a-herniated-disc-pinched-nerve-bulging-disc

Depression and Back Pain

It's not a surprise that most people suffering from chronic pain also experience depression, but did you know the reverse can be true as well? Check out the Depression Guide from Spine-Health:

http://www.spine-health.com/conditions/depression/depression-guide

A Definitive Guide to Lumber Spinal Stenosis

Persistent leg pain that is aggravated by walking could be a sign of lumbar stenosis. Read more about how to diagnose this painful condition.

 http://www.spine-health.com/conditions/spinal-stenosis/lumbar-spinal-stenosis-a-definitive-guide

Spinal Stenosis

While the term “stenosis” comes from Greek and means a “choking”, spinal stenosis, however, has little in common with choking. So what is spinal stenosis?

http://www.spine-health.com/conditions/spinal-stenosis/what-spinal-stenosis

Altered Position of Vertebra

The term "subluxation" is used by doctors of chiropractic to depict the altered position of the vertebra and subsequent functional loss, which determines the location for the spinal manipulation.

http://www.spine-health.com/treatment/chiropractic/subluxation-and-chiropractic

Integrating Chiropractic Care

What's the best way to incorporate chiropractic care in with care from other doctors?

http://www.spine-health.com/treatment/chiropractic/integrating-chiropractic-care-other-doctors

Lower back pain

In the assessment of lower back pain, differential diagnosis utilizing a "triage" concept of classifying low back injuries into one of three categories helps to guide the doctor of chiropractic. Click below to read more.

http://www.spine-health.com/treatment/chiropractic/chiropractic-diagnosis

Hamstring Stretching for Low Back & Sciatica Relief

Most low back pain and sciatica problems will benefit from a regular routine of hamstring stretching. Read all about it and check out the videos, too.

http://www.spine-health.com/wellness/exercise/hamstring-stretching-exercises-sciatica-pain-relief

MVAs and Whiplash - Chiropractic Treatment

Common from even seemingly minor motor vehicle accidents, cases of whiplash can be extremely severe. Because each individual case of whiplash is different, it is not possible to generalize about the chiropractic whiplash treatment.

http://www.spine-health.com/treatment/chiropractic/chiropractic-treatments-whiplash

VIDEO: Back Muscle Spasms

Back muscle spasms may occur because of an injury or condition affecting the spine. Unless the underlying problem is evaluated, discovered, and treated, the back muscle spasms will tend to recur.

http://www.spine-health.com/video/causes-back-muscle-spasms-video

Joint Dysfunction & Manipulation

Joint dysfunction in the spine can produce pain, and mobilizing the spine joints through manipulations (also called adjustments) can decrease that pain.

http://www.spine-health.com/conditions/arthritis/more-osteoarthritis-treatments

Subluxation

The term "subluxation" is used by doctors of chiropractic to depict the altered position of the vertebra and subsequent functional loss, which determines the location for the spinal manipulation.

http://www.spine-health.com/treatment/chiropractic/subluxation-and-chiropractic

Shoveling Snow Can Hurt Your Back!

Using the wrong body mechanics when shoveling snow can put undue stress on the lower back and lead to a painful muscle strain, or possibly more serious back injuries.

http://www.spine-health.com/wellness/ergonomics/snow-shoveling-techniques-prevent-low-back-injuries

Sacroiliac Joint Anatomy

The sacroiliac joint connects the sacrum with the pelvis on each side of the lower spine and it transmits all the forces of the upper body to the pelvis and legs.

http://www.spine-health.com/conditions/spine-anatomy/sacroiliac-joint-anatomy

Aches and Pains from Insomnia

Without sufficient sleep, aches and pains become more prominent. And many chronic pains can make it more difficult to get to sleep and stay asleep. This loop can make recovery more difficult unless sleep issues are addressed as part of a treatment program.

http://www.spine-health.com/video/insomnia-and-back-pain

How a Chiropractic Treatment Plan is Developed

A chiropractic treatment plan will try to reduce pain and restore normal joint function and muscle balance in the short term and restore functional independence and normal activity in the long term.

http://www.spine-health.com/treatment/chiropractic/chiropractic-treatment-plan

Good Posture Helps Reduce Back Pain

Correct posture is a simple but very important way to keep the many intricate structures in the back and spine healthy.

http://www.spine-health.com/wellness/ergonomics/good-posture-helps-reduce-back-pain

Sacroiliac Joint Pain

Pain from the sacroiliac (sak-roe-il-ee-ak) joint needs two things: for the source of the pain to be identified and treated and for the pain to be treated as well.

http://www.spine-health.com/video/non-surgical-treatment-sacroiliac-joint-dysfunction-video

Lumbar Spine Anatomy / Pain

The spine in the lower back has several unique characteristics that allow for normal motion, but are also prone to injury.

http://www.spine-health.com/conditions/spine-anatomy/lumbar-spine-anatomy-and-pain

Studies link sedentary activities to increases in anxiety

Australian researchers said an analysis of study data indicates that sedentary activities, such as working at a desk or playing video games, may increase anxiety symptoms. "It is important that we understand the behavioral factors that may be linked to anxiety -- in order to be able to develop evidence-based strategies in preventing/managing this illness," head researcher Megan Teychenne said in a news release.

The report was published in the journal BMC Public Health.

Studies: Potentially addictive drugs often prescribed for migraines

A study found more than 50% of adult migraine sufferers were prescribed narcotic painkillers, and a similar number were prescribed barbiturates. A second study showed 16% of children and teens with migraines had been prescribed a narcotic painkiller. These medications are not considered first-line treatments for migraines, said Dr. Mia Minen, lead researcher of the adult migraine study. HealthDay News

Study: Cognitive training may improve brain health after TBI

A study in Neuropsychological Rehabilitation says strategy-based cognitive training can improve the cognitive performance and brain health of those with traumatic brain injury, even long after the injury occurred. The Huffington Post

DC: What it means when your back "goes out"

The nerve supply to the spine has a relatively high threshold, writes Dr. Michael Noonan, so the pain from a back problem builds over time but can seem to come out of nowhere. The spasms generally associated with a back attack often come from the muscles protecting an inflamed or misaligned joint, where the real problem lies, Noonan writes...

(from Bangor Daily News (Maine) (free registration))

Hamstring Muscles - Video!

Strong hamstring muscles can reduce the strain on the structures in the spine and lessen pain in the lower back.

http://www.spine-health.com/video/hamstring-exercises-low-back-pain-relief-video

Axial Pain

Axial pain represents the most common type of low back pain and is only found in the lower back - it does not extend to the buttocks or legs.

http://www.spine-health.com/conditions/lower-back-pain/axial-back-pain-most-common-low-back-pain

Myofascial Therapy

Pain in an area of your body with soft tissue may be helped by treating the myofascia (trigger points) with stretching of the skin and muscles.

http://www.spine-health.com/treatment/physical-therapy/myofascial-therapy-treatment-acute-and-chronic-pain

Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion Recovery

Anterior cervical discectomy and fusion, or ACDF, is a common type of neck surgery to address pain and other symptoms caused by cervical disc problems. After an ACDF, most patients are able to go home the day of the surgery or the next day, so most of the recovery time is spent at home. Learn the typical considerations and instructions for ACDF postoperative care and rehabilitation.

Featured Article:
ACDF Surgery Postoperative Care

Additional Info

Hospital Care After ACDF Surgery
The goal of the one- or two-day hospital stay following ACDF is to keep the patient as comfortable and mobile as possible while preparing for long-term recovery at home. Learn More...

Getting Adequate Pain Control After Back Surgery
The spine surgeon performing a fusion surgery should have a pain control plan in place prior to surgery and should discuss it with the patient. This includes setting realistic expectations about the type and level of postoperative pain and providing instructions on how to respond when it occurs. Learn More...

Quitting Smoking Before a Spinal Fusion
An extensive amount of research has firmly established that cigarette smoking is bad for patients undergoing spine fusion surgery. But how does it impact a spinal fusion? What do you need to know to help my chances of successfully quitting smoking? Learn More...

Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion (ACDF) Video


An anterior cervical discectomy and fusion is an anterior approach to removing a cervical herniated disc in order to relieve spinal cord or root pressure and alleviate corresponding pain, weakness, and numbness. This interactive video provides an overview of anterior cervical discectomy.

Start watching...




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Exercise and Chiropractic Therapy

Cardiovascular and strengthening exercises combined with chiropractic care are important in the management of low back pain

If a patient has a history of heart problems, it is important for the patient to consult with not only the doctor of chiropractic but their primary care physician to be certain that they can tolerate cardiovascular fitness-promoting activities. Specific instructions are given by the chiropractor with respect to proper exercise for the patient's condition before beginning any exercise program.

In general, a reasonable amount of exercise performed daily and utilizing enjoyable activities is recommended for patients undergoing chiropractic treatment.

Exercise Benefits

Many studies have reported the importance of exercises in managing acute and chronic low back pain, strengthening the low back, preventing and keeping back patients working, and to improve quality of life. The strength of the abdominal muscles was also found to be able to differentiate between those with vs. without chronic LBP.

Overall and when combined with chiropractic care, aerobic exercise helps promote proper digestion, keeps the muscles in proper tone and promotes better circulation. Walking briskly around the block at least once or twice is a convenient and popular activity.
Also, many forms of work and/or household tasks can function as an exercise program. The important point is to exercise!

Types of Exercises

There are many applicable back exercises that are available for patients also undergoing chiropractic care for lower back pain. One can classify the chiropractic patient into a flexion or extension biased category to determine the variety that is best for that patient. For example:

- If a patient feels best when bending over (flexion biased), exercises that promote low back flexion such as pulling the knees to the chest, posterior pelvic tilts, bending forward from a sitting position and others are usually helpful.

- If a patient is least symptomatic in extension, especially if leg pain centralizes or diminishes (extension biased), prone press- up type exercises usually yield the best results.

Other exercises that can help reduce lower back pain include:

-Strengthening of the pelvic (trunk) stabilizing muscles

-Stretching of the hamstrings, adductors, and other overly short or tight postural muscles

-Proprioceptive or balance promoting.

Benefits of Back and Abdominal Exercise

Weak and/or overly tight supporting muscles can have painful spasms and suffer injuries themselves,
which then prevent them from supporting the spine as needed. Compromised muscles can also lead to problems with bone structure of the spine due to poor posture from the weak muscles, thereby creating an increased risk of back pain/ injury.

Consequently, developing combined strength in stomach muscles and back muscles can:

- Reduce the likelihood of back pain episodes

- Reduce the severity of back pain

- Protect against injury by responding efficiently to stresses

- Help avoid back surgery in some cases

- Facilitate healing from a back problem or after spine surgery

- Improve posture.

Reported Efficacy of Exercise in Chiropractic Care

According to the Scientific Commission of the Council on Chiropractic Guidelines and Practice Parameters (CCGPP):

- Strong evidence supports exercise as being at least as effective as other non-surgical treatments for chronic low back pain

- Moderate evidence supports use of a graded-activity exercise program in occupational settings for subacute lower back pain

- Some evidence shows that exercises are no more effective than other nonsurgical treatments for acute lower back pain.

As with any chiropractic treatment, it is important for chiropractors to perform a focused reevaluation of an exercise program following its initial therapeutic trial to determine its effectiveness. Using spinal range of motion as a measurement of the effectiveness of exercise is just one way in which chiropractors can make such determinations.

Learn more about exercise and back pain. Visit http://www.spine-health.com/wellness/exercise/back-exercises

VIDEO: Sacroiliac Joint

Sacroiliac joint problems can cause lower back pain and/or leg pain and is often treated first with chiropractic care.

http://www.spine-health.com/video/chiropractic-adjustment-sacroiliac-joint-video

Cold Laser Therapy for Pain Management

The light from low level lasers can penetrate the skin and tissues between 2-5 cm and those photons are absorbed by the tissue cells to generate more energy, which is believed to help those tissues heal faster.

http://www.spine-health.com/treatment/pain-management/cold-laser-therapy-pain-management-treatment

Low Impact Aerobic Exercise

Aerobic exercise increases the blood flow in the body, which helps speed up healing, but high-impact exercises may cause additional stress or trauma to the structures of the spine.

http://www.spine-health.com/wellness/exercise/low-impact-aerobic-exercise

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Exercise and Chiro

Exercise and chiropractic care go hand in hand as part of a comprehensive treatment plan to back or neck recovery.

http://www.spine-health.com/treatment/chiropractic/exercise-and-chiropractic-therapy

Degenerative Disk Disease

Degenerative disc disease refers to any condition where the spinal discs are degenerating or degrading, often causing back pain. This interactive video provides information on spinal anatomy and how degenerative disc disease affects the vertebrae and spinal discs. It also gives an in-depth overview of symptoms associated with degenerative disc disease.

http://www.spine-health.com/video/degenerative-disc-disease-interactive-video

Guide on Depression, Chronic Pain

It's not a surprise that most people suffering from chronic pain also experience depression, but did you know the reverse can be true as well? Check out the Depression Guide from Spine-Health:

http://www.spine-health.com/conditions/depression/depression-guide

VIDEO: Neck Stiffness - Short & Long Term Causes

VIDEO: Soreness in the neck and difficulty moving the neck is usually a short-term issue, but may be a symptom of a more serious problem. This video explains the reason why the neck becomes stiff, when this is a serious symptom. Schedule time with chiropractor to have your stiff neck evaluated.

http://www.spine-health.com/video/video-what-causes-a-stiff-neck

Decrease Sitting Time & Feel Healthier

Decrease your sitting time by 66 minutes per day and feel healthier. In a recent study 87% of people reported feeling more comfortable and energized when they were alternating between standing and sitting. Read more below:

http://www.spine-health.com/blog/one-hour-ease-your-back-ache-and-boost-your-mood

How are You Sleeping? 11 Tips to Stay Regular with Sleep

How are you sleeping these days? Check out these 11 tips on how to get to sleep and stay asleep. Consult your chiropractor for additional tips!

http://www.spine-health.com/blog/11-unconventional-sleep-tips-how-get-sleep-and-stay-asleep

Mattress Guidelines for Sleep Comfort

The right mattress can really help one have a good night's sleep and wake up feeling rested and refreshed. Sleeping on the wrong mattress can cause sleeplessness, back pain, and overall aches and pains. For people with a back problem, a mattress that isn't a good fit can make the pain worse.

When searching for the best mattress, remember that mattresses are largely a matter of personal preference. There is no single type of mattress or bed that works well for all people, and there is no best mattress for back problems. Likewise, there
is no single sleep position known to be best for all people. This is due to several factors:

- There are many causes of back problems, and different back conditions may respond better to specific types of beds, mattresses and sleep positions.

- There is a high degree of personal preference for mattresses, and what works well for one person may not work well for another.

- There is very limited scientific study published on mattresses and back pain, and findings from the studies that have been completed are inconclusive.

- Overall, the causes of back pain can be quite complex, and it’s difficult to isolate whether or not a person's mattress has played a significant role in improving the pain or making it worse.

The bottom line is that the type of mattress that is best for any particular person is really a matter of personal preference.

The type of mattress one uses is not the only factor for patients with pain and sleep difficulty. Many other factors need to be considered that may affect sleep, including:

- Medication side effects

- Irregular sleep patterns

- Caffeine/alcohol/tobacco use

- Sleep apnea

- Anxiety/stress

If comfort is not the only thing making sleep difficult, it is advisable for the patient to consult his or her family physician to discuss other possible causes and treatments for sleeplessness.

Experiencing significant or persistent back pain may indicate an underlying back condition that has nothing to do with the mattress. It is always advisable for people with back pain to consult with a health care provider for a thorough exam, diagnosis, and treatment program.

As a reminder, sleep comfort is first and foremost a matter of personal preference. No one should expect that switching mattresses or beds will cure their lower back pain, and changes in the type of bed or mattress used should be made solely for the sake of comfort.

Sleep Positions for Back Conditions

An important factor that can influence individual preferences for mattresses, beds and sleeping positions is the specific back condition a person has. For example:

- Osteoarthritis. Patients with pain from osteoarthritis of the facet joints may prefer to sleep on their sides with their knees curled up (in the fetal position). This helps open up the facet joints in the spine and can relieve any corresponding pressure. Alternatively, sleeping in a reclining chair or an adjustable bed that allows the head and knees to be elevated can also relieve pressure on the facet joints.

- Degenerative Disc Disease. Patients with pain from degenerative disc disease may prefer to sleep on their stomach as this can relieve pressure on the disc space. Patients may feel most comfortable using a relatively firm mattress and placing a flat pillow under the stomach and hips, which can further reduce stress on the lower back.

- Spinal Stenosis. People with pain from spinal stenosis may prefer to sleep on their sides with their knees curled up (in the fetal position). This helps relieve pressure on the nerve root. Sleeping in a reclining chair or an adjustable bed that allows the head and knees to be elevated can also relieve pressure on the nerve.

- Bursitis. Patients who have inflammation of the bursa over their hips (greater trochanteric bursitis) can be especially susceptible to pain from a mattress that is too firm. If the mattress is too hard, a new mattress with thick padding on top, or placing an egg crate foam
mattress cover over the old mattress, can help provide some relief from the firmness.

- Hip Pain. Patients with hip pain who sleep on their sides can usually find some pain relief by placing a pillow between their knees. This decreases stress across the hip.

- Herniated Lumbar Disc. The most comfortable sleep position depends on the position of the disc. For a paracentral disc herniation (most common), patients will tend to do better lying on their stomach. For a foraminal herniated disc, sleeping on the side in a fetal position is usually better tolerated.

In general, elevating the knees slightly by placing a pillow under them while lying on the back can help many general forms of low back pain. Many patients also find that this is the most comfortable way to sleep after spine surgery.

Learn more about getting a good night’s sleep. Visit http://www.spine-health.com/wellness/sleep/mattress-guidelines-sleep-comfort

Whiplash!

When the cervical spine (neck) is subject to whiplash, there is usually a combination of factors that contribute to whiplash pain in the neck and back, and ultimately need to be addressed individually by a chiropractor. Read the details below:

http://www.spine-health.com/treatment/chiropractic/sources-whiplash-pain

Informational Video: Lumber Spine Adjustments

Chiropractic can be an effective nonsurgical treatment option for many types of low back pain, including those associated with facet joint or sacroiliac joint dysfunction and disc problems. Chiropractic manipulation is a common therapeutic treatment designed to increase function and decrease pain and nerve irritability. Here's a video explaining what it looks like and how it works.

http://www.spine-health.com/video/chiropractic-adjustment-lumbar-spine-low-back-video

Degenerative Disk Disease

Degenerative disc disease refers to any condition where the spinal discs are degenerating or degrading, often causing back pain. This interactive video provides information on spinal anatomy and how degenerative disc disease affects the vertebrae and spinal discs. It also gives an in-depth overview of symptoms associated with degenerative disc disease.

http://www.spine-health.com/video/degenerative-disc-disease-interactive-video

Pain Killers Can Increase Chronic Pain

How pain killers sometimes increase chronic pain:

http://www.spine-health.com/blog/how-pain-killers-sometimes-increase-chronic-pain

Herniated Disc: A Condition with Many Names

Whether it’s called a slipped disc, bulging disc, or ruptured disc, there are a lot of ways to label and describe a herniated disc. But regardless of the name used, the important goal is to have a doctor accurately diagnose the cause of disc pain, so it can be treated. This article explains the diagnostic process.

Featured Article:
Diagnosing Disc Problems

Treatment Options for a Lumbar Herniated Disc
In most cases, herniated discs are first treated with several weeks of nonsurgical treatments. If symptoms and pain don’t improve, surgery may be considered.  Learn More...

Exercise for Sciatica from a Herniated Disc
When a herniated disc causes nerve pain that radiates down the back of the legs, known as sciatica, there are many exercises you can do to ease this pain. Learn More...

Lumbar Decompression Back Surgery
If the main source of pain for a lumbar herniated disc is from a nerve impingement, a surgery known as lumbar decompression may be recommended. Learn More...

Massage Therapy Effective for Back Pain

Massages aren't just for pampering at the spa. Unknown to many people, there is evidence that shows massage therapy may be as-or more effective than- standard medical treatment for nonspecific back pain. Read all about a new study:

http://www.spine-health.com/blog/massage-therapy-drug-free-alternative-back-pain-relief

What's the Best Pillow to Use?

Patients with neck pain often ask "which is the best pillow to use?" and the truth is there’s no one pillow that works for everybody. This video reviews the advantages and disadvantages of different types of pillows.

http://www.spine-health.com/video/best-pillows-neck-pain-or-back-pain-video

Exercise & Chiropractic Therapy

Exercise and chiropractic care go hand in hand as part of a comprehensive treatment plan to back or neck recovery.

http://www.spine-health.com/treatment/chiropractic/exercise-and-chiropractic-therapy

Insomnia and Back Pain

Without sufficient sleep, aches and pains become more prominent. And many chronic pains can make it more difficult to get to sleep and stay asleep. This loop can make recovery more difficult unless sleep issues are addressed as part of a treatment program.

http://www.spine-health.com/video/insomnia-and-back-pain

Sciatica Treatment

When someone is suffering from sciatic pain, the first treatments should be heat or ice, chiropractic manipulations, massage, medications, and acupuncture, followed by exercises.

http://www.spine-health.com/conditions/sciatica/sciatica-treatment

Study: Spinal Manipulation Can Be Healthier, More Effective Than Pain Medication

It may be easier and less time consuming to take pain medicine to help your lower back pain, but a recent study shows that spinal manipulation may be more effective.

http://www.spine-health.com/blog/chiropractic-manipulation-or-medication-low-back-pain

Exercise can be difficult while in pain, but it is a key aspect in healing from the injury and preventing future episodes of pain. Muscle pain and aches can be normal, but flaring joint pain should be a warning to avoid certain exercises. Check out this video from Spine-Health.com for information.

http://www.spine-health.com/video/video-if-my-back-or-joints-hurt-should-i-work-through-pain

What is Degenerative Disc Disease?

Degenerative disc disease is one of the most common causes of low back pain, and also one of the most misunderstood. Many patients diagnosed with low back pain caused by degenerative disc disease are left wondering exactly what this diagnosis means for them. Learn what you can expect to experience moving forward after your initial diagnosis.

Featured Article:
What is Degenerative Disc Disease

Degenerative Disc Disease Treatment for Low Back Pain
Although degenerative disc disease can cause lower back pain symptoms over a long period of time, the good news is that the pain is usually manageable with various nonsurgical treatment options, including exercise, massage, and chiropractic. Learn More…

Living with Degenerative Disc Disease
Learn the key components of a self-care program you can undertake to manage the pain of degenerative disc disease, including components such as pain reduction, exercise and rehabilitation, behavior modifications, and nutrition. Learn More…

Deciding on Surgery for Degenerative Disc Disease
If ongoing severe, disabling pain from degenerative disc disease and associated symptoms (e.g., numbness, tingling, difficulty sitting), it is sometimes not possible to wait for non-surgical therapy to work, and surgery may be your next course of action. Learn More…

Chiropratic: Lower Back & Buttocks Pain

For patients with lower back or buttock pain that stems from the sacroiliac joint, a variety of chiropractic procedures can be applied and are often considered the first line of treatment.

http://www.spine-health.com/conditions/sacroiliac-joint-dysfunction/chiropractic-procedures-sacroiliac-joint

DIY massage ideas - alleviate your back pain

Here are some do-it-yourself massage ideas to alleviate back pain!

http://www.spine-health.com/blog/how-tennis-balls-and-duct-tape-can-morph-a-do-it-yourself-massage-lower-back-pain

Spine Manipulation Techniques

There are well over 100 types of adjustment techniques used by chiropractors throughout the world. Typically, chiropractors will focus on and utilize 8 to 10 different approaches in their practice.

http://www.spine-health.com/treatment/chiropractic/spinal-manipulation-techniques

Is Chiro Adjustment a Good Pain Reliever?

Scientific evidence has indicated that spinal manipulation is a safe, mild-to-moderate pain reliever for lower back pain, neck pain and headache, and recent health care guidelines have listed it as a viable treatment option for symptoms that do not respond to self-care.

http://www.spine-health.com/treatment/chiropractic/evolution-chiropractic-medicine-health-care

Reiteration on Sciatica

Sciatica (pronounced sigh-at-ih-kah) is not a medical diagnosis in and of itself – it is a symptom of an underlying medical condition. Learn all about it:

http://www.spine-health.com/conditions/sciatica/what-you-need-know-about-sciatica

Pregnancy & Back Pain Treatments for Lower Back Pain

Chiropractic treatments for pregnant women suffering from lower back pain has a very high success rate and can be combined with other treatments that do not include adding medications into the system.

http://www.spine-health.com/conditions/pregnancy-and-back-pain/treatments-low-back-pain-during-pregnancy

Office Back Pain

Back pain is one of the most common work-related injuries and is often caused by ordinary work activities such as sitting in an office chair or heavy lifting. Applying ergonomic principles can help keep your back healthy.

http://www.spine-health.com/wellness/ergonomics/ergonomics-office-and-workplace-overview

There are many different terms used to describe spinal disc pathology and associated pain, such as "herniated disc", "pinched nerve", and "bulging disc", and all are used differently by doctors. Learn the difference:

http://www.spine-health.com/conditions/herniated-disc/whats-a-herniated-disc-pinched-nerve-bulging-disc

Link: What You Need to Know About Sciatica.

http://www.spine-health.com/conditions/sciatica/what-you-need-know-about-sciatica

Lumbar Spinal Stenosis: A Definitive Guide

Persistent leg pain that is aggravated by walking could be a sign of lumbar stenosis. Read more about how to diagnose this painful condition.

http://www.spine-health.com/conditions/spinal-stenosis/lumbar-spinal-stenosis-a-definitive-guide

On Spinal Stenosis

While the term “stenosis” comes from Greek and means a “choking”, spinal stenosis, however, has little in common with choking. So what is spinal stenosis?

http://www.spine-health.com/conditions/spinal-stenosis/what-spinal-stenosis

3 Things to do For Controlling Degenerative Disc Disease

3 suggestions to control pain from disc degeneration:  1-stay active 2-modify any activity that puts stress on your back 3-improve your nutrition

http://www.spine-health.com/conditions/degenerative-disc-disease/controlling-degenerative-disc-disease-pain-three-things-you-can

Integrating Care in Chiropractic

What's the best way to incorporate chiropractic care in with care from other doctors?

http://www.spine-health.com/treatment/chiropractic/integrating-chiropractic-care-other-doctors

Battling Heat & Back Pain

Sometimes battling the heat with back pain can be tough. Check out these tips.

http://www.spine-health.com/blog/battling-heat-and-back-pain

Chiro Post-Operative Care

Even though there is usually some temporarily added muscle soreness (similar to the feeling of having completed an aggressive exercise session) after the manipulation, the patient should experience an immediate increase in range of motion post-anesthesia care.

http://www.spine-health.com/treatment/chiropractic/post-operative-care

About that cracking sound...

Sometimes joint cavitation or cracking does not occur during a chiropractic adjustment. Why not? And what are the chiropractors next steps?

http://www.spine-health.com/treatment/chiropractic/chiropractic-adjustment

Sources of Whiplash Pain

When the cervical spine (neck) is subject to whiplash, there is usually a combination of factors that contribute to whiplash pain in the neck and back, and ultimately need to be addressed individually by a chiropractor, who maintains a "holistic" view of the patient's whiplash pain. This article explains how chiropractors approach treating neck pain, back pain, and/or other whiplash symptoms, and help patients prevent chronic whiplash pain.

Whiplash Pain Management for Joint Dysfunction

Joint dysfunction from whiplash occurs when one of the joints in the spine or limbs loses its normal joint play (resiliency and shock absorption). A chiropractic technique called motion palpation gently moves the joint in different directions and assesses its joint play. When a joint develops dysfunction, its normal range of movement may be affected and it can become painful.

Muscle Dysfunction from Whiplash Injuries

When joint dysfunction develops, muscles are affected by becoming tense and overactive or inhibited and underactive. In either case, these muscles can develop trigger points that may necessitate whiplash treatment involving muscle relaxation or stimulation.

Trigger points are areas of congestion within the muscle where toxins accumulate and can irritate the nerve endings within the muscle and produce pain. This whiplash pain can occur in the muscle itself or can be referred pain (perceived in other areas of the body).

The muscle can also send abnormal neurological signals into the nervous system, which can then cause disruption of the ability of the nervous system to properly regulate muscles in other parts of the body, leading to the development of faulty movement patterns.

Faulty Movement Patterns and Whiplash Pain

It is thought that the intense barrage of pain signals from a traumatic whiplash injury to the cervical spine can change the way the nervous system controls the coordinated function of muscles.

The disruption of coordinated, stable movement is known as faulty movement patterns which cause increased strain in the muscles and joints, leading to neck pain and back pain. They can involve the neck itself or can arise from dysfunction in other areas of the body such as the foot or pelvis.

Instability is also considered part of faulty movement patterns. There are two types of instability that can occur in whiplash:

- Passive—the ligaments of the neck are loosened, making it more susceptible to whiplash pain; and

- Dynamic—the nervous system disruption causes a disturbance in the body’s natural muscular response to common, everyday forces.

Instability can cause even mild, innocuous activities difficult to perform as they often exacerbate the
whiplash pain.

Whiplash Pain from a Herniated Disc

The force of whiplash can cause injury to the discs between the vertebrae, and small tears can develop. If the gelatinous middle of the disc seeps out, it can irritate the nerve endings in this area. This is known as disc derangement.

Occasionally, the gel can seep all the way out and press on a nerve root exiting the spinal cord behind the disc, known as disc herniation.

A herniated disc may involve whiplash pain in the neck as well as sharp, shooting pain down the arm and possibly neurological symptoms such as numbness, tingling and muscle weakness.

Chiropractic Treatments for Whiplash

Each case of whiplash is different so it’s not possible to generalize about the chiropractic whiplash treatment.

Chiropractors commonly employ different chiropractic treatments for whiplash, often including:

- Manipulation
- Muscle relaxation and/or stimulation
- Various exercises
- Ergonomic and lifestyle changes.

Preventing Chronic Pain from Whiplash

After sustaining whiplash injuries, it is fairly common for people to suffer from chronic neck pain. Chiropractors can detect certain factors in a patient’s history and chiropractic exam to better determine patients who may be more susceptible to chronic pain from a whiplash injury. This process will identify when aggressive preventative measures should be taken for patients who may be at a greater risk of developing chronic neck pain from whiplash injuries.

Learn more about whiplash and its treatment at http://www.spine-health.com/conditions/neck-pain/what-whiplash

Treating Pulled Muscles and Lower Back Strain

The majority of acute lower back pain episodes are caused by muscle strain (pulled muscles) and sprain. Fortunately, back muscle strains usually heal with time, often within a few days and almost all resolving within 3 to 4 weeks. Learn more about the causes of and treatments available for low back strain.

Featured Article:
Pulled Back Muscle Treatment


More Information

Pulled Back Muscle and Lower Back Strain
When the muscles or ligaments in the low back are strained or torn, the area around the muscles will become inflamed. This leads to back spasm, which can cause both severe lower back pain and difficulty moving. Learn more...

Back Care for Lower Back Pain
It is often advisable for patients to employ back care on their own early in the course of low back pain. Do-it-yourself back care can include rest, over-the counter medications, and ice/heat therapy. Learn more...

Lower Back Pain Treatment
Treatment for lower back pain depends upon the patient's history and the type and severity of pain. The vast majority of lower back pain cases get better within six weeks, though surgery may be an option if pain persists. Learn more...

Lower Back Strain Video

Lower Back Strain

Lower back strain is acute pain caused by damage to the muscles and ligaments of the back. It is often referred to as a pulled muscle. Learn more about the muscles affected by and symptoms of lower back strain.

Start watching...

Exercise in Chiropractic

Exercise and chiropractic care go hand in hand as part of a comprehensive treatment plan to back or neck recovery.

http://www.spine-health.com/treatment/chiropractic/exercise-and-chiropractic-therapy

In the assessment of lower back pain, differential diagnosis utilizing a "triage" concept of classifying low back injuries into one of three categories helps to guide the doctor of chiropractic.

http://www.spine-health.com/treatment/chiropractic/chiropractic-diagnosis

History of Chiropractic

Since its inception in 1895, chiropractic has provided treatment for patients with back pain, neck pain and headache.

http://www.spine-health.com/treatment/chiropractic/american-chiropractic-history-treatment-back-pain-and-neck-pain

Happy Friday!

Happy Friday! Are any of you convinced by this post to stand more at your office this week?

http://www.spine-health.com/blog/new-health-epidemic-sitting-disease

Hamstring Stretches for Sciatica/Lower Back Pain Relief

Most low back pain and sciatica problems will benefit from a regular routine of hamstring stretching. Read all about it and check out the videos, too.

http://www.spine-health.com/wellness/exercise/hamstring-stretching-exercises-sciatica-pain-relief

Whiplash Cases in Chiropractic

Because each individual case of whiplash is different, it is not possible to generalize about the chiropractic whiplash treatment.

http://www.spine-health.com/treatment/chiropractic/chiropractic-treatments-whiplash

Biking - It's Good For You!

Biking is a popular form of aerobic exercise, and is often a favored form of exercise by people with low back pain conditions. Biking may be a good exercise option for many reasons:

http://www.spine-health.com/conditions/sports-and-spine-injuries/bicycling-and-back-pain

Chiro Refresher: Chiropractic Manipulation

Chiropractic manipulation refers to a chiropractor applying manipulation to the vertebrae that have abnormal movement patterns or fail to function normally. Chiropractic manipulation (also known as chiropractic adjustment or spinal manipulation), is a common therapeutic treatment for lower back pain.

http://www.spine-health.com/treatment/chiropractic/chiropractic-manipulation

Golf is great, but you have to stretch and exercise for it!

For the millions of people who have chronic, long-standing low back pain, golf can still be an enjoyable sport. However, a regular routine of stretching and low-impact exercise is critical to maintain the ability to play golf.

http://www.spine-health.com/conditions/sports-and-spine-injuries/playing-golf-low-back-pain

Chiropractic: Tai Chi Therapy, Yoga, Pilates & Other Exercise

There are many aspects of Tai Chi theory which benefit people with back or neck pain. Posture, balance, muscle strength, and stress reduction are all benefits of this practice.

http://www.spine-health.com/wellness/yoga-pilates-tai-chi/tai-chi-theory

VIDEO: Back Muscle Spasms

Back muscle spasms may occur because of an injury or condition affecting the spine. Unless the underlying problem is evaluated, discovered, and treated, the back muscle spasms will tend to recur.

http://www.spine-health.com/video/causes-back-muscle-spasms-video

Examination of Your Spine During an Examination

How chiropractors examine the structure and function of the spine and then determine specific chiropractic treatments separate chiropractic care from other disciplines.

http://www.spine-health.com/treatment/chiropractic/chiropractic-examination

Choosing the Best Mattress for Lower Back Pain

Sleeping on the wrong mattress can cause or worsen lower back pain. Lack of support from a mattress reinforces poor sleeping posture, strains muscles and does not help keep the spine in alignment, all of which contribute to low back pain.
Sleep comfort is also sacrificed if a mattress does not match one's individual preferences. A mattress that provides both comfort and back support helps reduce low back pain, allowing the structures in the spine to really rest and rejuvenate during the night.

Choosing the right mattress can be difficult. The following practical guidelines are designed to help patients with low back pain choose the best mattress for both back support and sleep comfort:

1. Personal preference should ultimately determine what mattress is best. There is no single mattress style or type that works for all people with low back pain. Any mattress that helps someone sleep without pain and stiffness is the best mattress for that individual. Patients with low back pain should choose the mattress that meets their standards for comfort and support and allows them to get a good night's sleep.

2. Understand and inquire about the physical components of the mattress. The coils or inner springs of a mattress provide the support. Different mattresses vary in their number and arrangement of coils. Padding on top of the mattress comes in many different thicknesses. Mattress depths typically range anywhere from 7 to 18 inches deep. Choosing the number of coils, type of padding and mattress depth should be determined by individual preferences.

3. Find a mattress with back support. A good mattress should provide support for the natural curves and alignment of the spine. The right amount of back support also helps the patient avoid muscle soreness in the morning. While there is not much clinical data about mattresses, one study found that medium-firm mattresses usually provide more back pain relief than firm mattresses.

4. Achieve a balance between back support and comfort. Overall comfort while sleeping on the mattress is equally important as sufficient back support. Sleeping on a mattress that is too firm can cause aches and pains on pressure points. A medium-firm mattress may be more comfortable because it allows the shoulder and hips to sink in slightly. Patients who want a firmer mattress for back support can get one with thicker padding for greater comfort.

5.  Know when it's time to get a new mattress. If an old mattress sags visibly in the middle or is no longer comfortable, it is probably time to purchase a new one. Putting boards under a sagging mattress to keep it from sagging in the middle is only a short-term fix for the sagging; a new mattress is still needed.

Some Considerations

Shop for the best value and quality of the mattress, not price. Mattresses with more coils and thicker padding tend to be higher quality and also more expensive; however, a higher price does not guarantee that the mattress is more comfortable or more supportive. Mattress stores often have sales and promotions, so it is a good idea to comparison-shop for the best price after finding the right mattress.

Be aware of mattress advertising gimmicks. Claims that a mattress is 'orthopedic' or 'medically-approved' should be viewed skeptically. There has not been extensive medical research or controlled clinical trials on the topic of mattresses and low back pain. The individual must determine whether or not extra features on a mattress make it more comfortable or supportive.

Give the mattress a test-run before buying. To sample mattresses, people can try sleeping on different makes and models in hotels or at other people's homes before going to a mattress store. When shopping at the store, shoppers should lie on the mattress for several minutes to decide if it is a good fit. If two people will be sleeping on the mattress, both should test it at the same time to make sure they have enough space and are both comfortable on the same style of mattress.

Purchase mattresses from stores and companies that are trustworthy. Consider the customer service offered by the mattress store, such as delivery options, warranty, and removal of old mattresses and the store's return policy. Look for mattress stores where customers can return a mattress if they are not satisfied with the quality or comfort after sleeping on it for a significant amount of time (i.e. a couple of weeks to a month).

To help preserve the quality of a new mattress, it should be repositioned every six months to ensure that the mattress is evenly worn. This includes rotating 180 degrees and flipping the mattress lengthwise on a regular basis. The Better Sleep Council advises against putting a mattress on a box spring/foundation that is not made to go with the mattress, as this may decrease the life of the new mattress.

Learn more about evaluating mattresses. Visit http://www.spine-health.com/wellness/sleep/how-evaluate-a-mattress

Cervicogenic Headache Video

Sometimes a headache may be caused by a problem with the occipital nerve, which travels through a segment of spine in the neck.

http://www.spine-health.com/video/cervicogenic-headache-video

Exercise Equipment at Home

Home exercise equipment can make it easier to start and maintain an aerobic exercise program.  Learn which exercise equipment is recommend for low impact aerobic exercise?

http://www.spine-health.com/wellness/exercise/home-exercise-equipment-low-impact-aerobic-exercise

Joint Dysfunction & Osteo Treatments

Joint dysfunction in the spine can produce pain, and mobilizing the spine joints through manipulations (also called adjustments) can decrease that pain.

http://www.spine-health.com/conditions/arthritis/more-osteoarthritis-treatments

Sacroiliac Joint Anatomy

The sacroiliac joint connects the sacrum with the pelvis on each side of the lower spine and it transmits all the forces of the upper body to the pelvis and legs.

http://www.spine-health.com/conditions/spine-anatomy/sacroiliac-joint-anatomy

Getting Enough Sleep?

Without sufficient sleep, aches and pains become more prominent. And many chronic pains can make it more difficult to get to sleep and stay asleep. This loop can make recovery more difficult unless sleep issues are addressed as part of a treatment program.

http://www.spine-health.com/video/insomnia-and-back-pain

Have a Chiro Treatment Plan

A chiropractic treatment plan will try to reduce pain and restore normal joint function and muscle balance in the short term and restore functional independence and normal activity in the long term.

http://www.spine-health.com/treatment/chiropractic/chiropractic-treatment-plan

Sacroiliac Joint Issues

Sacroiliac joint problems can cause lower back pain and/or leg pain and is often treated first with chiropractic care.

http://www.spine-health.com/video/chiropractic-adjustment-sacroiliac-joint-video

Aerobic Exercise

Aerobic exercise increases the blood flow in the body, which helps speed up healing, but high-impact exercises may cause additional stress or trauma to the structures of the spine.

http://www.spine-health.com/wellness/exercise/low-impact-aerobic-exercise

Whiplash Treatment

Chiropractic treatment for whiplash focuses on removing restrictions to movement in the neck.

http://www.spine-health.com/treatment/chiropractic/chiropractic-treatments-whiplash

Milk and Calcium for Bone Health

If you want to get more calcium in your diet, there are many foods besides milk and dairy that will help keep your bones strong.

http://www.spine-health.com/wellness/nutrition-diet-weight-loss/sources-calcium-food

Cold Laser Therapy for Healing and Pain

The light from low level lasers can penetrate the skin and tissues between 2-5 cm and those photons are absorbed by the tissue cells to generate more energy, which is believed to help those tissues heal faster.

http://www.spine-health.com/treatment/pain-management/cold-laser-therapy-pain-management-treatment

X-Rays Explained

An x-ray of the spine will help medical professionals determine if there are tumors, fractures, or structural abnormalities in the spine such as scoliosis or a slipped vertebrae.

http://www.spine-health.com/treatment/diagnostic-tests/x-ray

Spinal Stenosis: Steps Clinical Study for the Minimally Invasive Totalis Procedure

Featured Clinical Trial Spinal Stenosis: Steps Clinical Study for the Minimally Invasive Totalis Procedure Right now spine specialists around the United States are accepting patient's diagnosed with or who may have spinal stenosis for the Steps Clinical Trial. Do you suffer with pain, tingling, or numbness in your leg(s) when walking or standing? Have medications and injections failed to provide relief? Are you considering a lumbar decompression surgery? You may be eligible to participate in a clinical research study designed to produce scientific information to demonstrate the treatment effect of the Totalis procedure, a minimally-invasive alternative to traditional spine surgery that does not require general anesthesia and allows most patients to return home the same day. The Study is intended to provide clinical data required by Medicare to support insurance coverage. Learn more about the Steps Clinical Study for the Totalis Procedure and find Study locations.

Can Massage Help Your Back Problem?

Most episodes of acute lower back pain are caused by muscle strain, such as from lifting a heavy object, a sudden movement or a fall. Massage can help work out the spasm/irritation caused by a muscle strain. Learn more...

Pulled Back Muscle Treatment

Back muscle strains typically heal with time. Many heal within a few days of initial injury, but healing can take as long as 3 or 4 weeks. See what initial treatments can help ease muscle strain discomfort during recovery. Learn more...

Neck Strain: Causes and Remedies

Neck muscle strain (or other soft tissue strain or sprain, such as ligaments or tendons) can result in a stiff neck and/or pain in a shoulder muscle. How can they best be prevented and remedied? Learn more...

Is Muscle Strain Causing Your Neck or Back Pain?

Many episodes of back or neck pain are due to a muscle strain or other soft tissue sprain. This type of injury often improves with time and non-surgical care, such as medications and chiropractic manipulation. However, if the pain continues or worsens or is accompanied by arm pain, leg pain, or numbness, there is often a specific condition that requires treatment.

Featured Article:
Pulled Back Muscle and Lower Back Strain

Artifical Cervical Disk Replacement - Are You A Candidate?

Do you have arm pain, weakness or numbness and/or neck pain? You may be a candidate for Mobi-C. » Find out More The Mobi-C® Cervical Disc (Mobi-C) has been designed as an alternative to cervical fusion, replacing the cervical disc to restore segmental motion and disc height. » Learn more Watch how it works Real Experiences Both Chuck and Melinda have suffered from debilitating numbness, pain and weakness in their arms and neck. The struggle to find pain relief became a daily battle for each of them. Watch Chuck and Melissa as they talk about their experiences with cervical pain and how Mobi-C allowed them to return to a normal life of work, family, and fun Chuck   Melinda » Watch their stories now Mobi-C is an Alternative to Cervical Fusion In a surgery with the Mobi-C Cervical Disc, the unhealthy disc is removed, but instead of a bone spacer or plastic implant along with a plate and screws, a Mobi-C is implanted into the disc space. Where a fusion procedure is intended to eliminate motion at the surgery levels, the goal of a surgery with Mobi-C is to allow motion at those levels. » Find out what others are saying about Mobi-C Surgery with Mobi-C: Will replace your worn out discs. May help keep neck movement: Bending forward-to-back. Bending side-to-side. Turning left-to-right. Matches disc height to the levels above and below. This can help un-trap nerves. May lessen your neck and/or arm pain. May lessen any arm tingling. May help you return to your normal life of work, family, and fun. » Find a Surgeon » Are you a candidate? Visit these additional resources to learn more about the Cervical Spine: Cervical Pain from Degeneration and Injury Mobi-C is the First Cervical Disc FDA Approved for One and Two-Level Indications. (Sponsored) Cervical Herniated Disc Symptoms and Treatment Options » LEARN MORE about your options with Mobi-C