6 Tips for Seeking Help With Sciatica: Ask your doctor

If you suffer from symptoms of sciatica, follow these 6 tips to make the most of your next doctor's visit.

http://www.spine-health.com/blog/6-tips-have-productive-doctor-s-visit-if-you-have-sciatica

RI Back Health Newsletter, 2016 December

http://www.spine-health.com/files/newsletters/pdfs/spine-health-chironews-66057.pdf

The only time the muscles, ligaments, and other structures of the spine can completely relax is while sleeping. Sleeping on a mattress that is uncomfortable or does not provide enough support for the spine can cause sleeplessness and overall aches and pains. For people with back and/or neck problems, a mattress that isn’t a good fit can make pain worse.

A good mattress, on the other hand, will help a person sleep well so that he or she wakes feeling rested and refreshed— without pain and stiffness.

Although no single type of mattress will work best for everyone, the seemingly infinite number of mattress options can be overwhelming. The following tips can help you make an informed decision:

1. Consult with your doctor. If you have an underlying condition that causes back or neck pain, ask your doctor for a specific mattress recommendation. He or she may be able to offer some helpful advice based on years of experience with patients.

2. Shop at a store that specializes in mattresses. You may be able to find a better price online or at a big-box retailer, but the salespeople at a mattress specialty store typically know more about the product they’re selling. It’s also a good idea to shop at a mattress specialty store that carries mattresses from all the major manufacturers.

3. Try out the mattress. When deciding on a new mattress, lie on the mattress for at least 10 to 15 minutes while at the store. This may seem strange, but buying a mattress is a big purchase—and it’s a decision you may live with for 5 to 10 years.

4. Don’t default to a firm mattress for back pain. Many people assume that the firmer the mattress, the better it is for back pain. But the best mattress for most lower back pain sufferers may actually be a medium firm mattress. It’s important to note that there is a difference between firm support and firm
feel—typically, you want a mattress with firm support but a comfortable feel. Of course, comfort is determined by personal preference.

5. Consider an adjustable bed. As a general rule, if sitting in a recliner is better for your back or neck pain than lying down, you will benefit from an adjustable bed. An adjustable bed is not a type of mattress, but rather a base that can be adjusted to various positions. If you go with an adjustable bed, you will likely need to purchase a new mattress that is compatible with your new base. Follow these simple guidelines to help you to find the best mattress for optimal sleep comfort.

Learn more:
www.spine-health.com/blog/7-pointers-help-you-find-right-mattress-your-back-or-neck-pain

Cowesett Chiropractic: Dr Rick Jardon

401-515-4435
328 Cowesett Avenue
West Warwick, RI 02893

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What is Chronic Pain?

Chronic pain is generally defined as any pain that continues more than 3 to 6 months. Please read the below for more information.

http://www.spine-health.com/conditions/depression/4-tips-help-cope-chronic-pain-and-depression?source=3tab

X-rays of the spine can be extremely important diagnostic tools

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

Chiro History

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

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

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