Alleviate Chronic Lower Back Pain With Lumbar Fusion

Most people are likely to experience low back pain at some point in their life and may respond to conservative treatments. However, there are severe cases that may require surgical intervention. Fortunately, Polaris Spine and Neurosurgery Center offers lumbar fusion in Bethlehem to alleviate chronic pain and restore spinal stability. 

What Is Lumbar Fusion? 

Lumbar fusion, also known as spinal fusion, refers to a surgery that permanently connects some spinal vertebrae to limit motion in the affected segment and alleviate chronic pain. This fusion prevents overstretching of the surrounding nerves, muscles, and ligaments, which may cause pain and discomfort. Lumbar fusion treatments usually mimic the natural healing process of broken or fractured bones. Spinal fusion is only recommendable when your surgeon detects the root cause of your pain. 

When Should You Consider Lumbar Fusion? 

Lumbar fusion surgery permanently fuses two or more vertebrae to alleviate chronic pain, correct spinal deformities, or restore stability. The medical team at Polaris Spine and Neurosurgery Center may recommend lumbar fusion if you have the following: 

· Spinal weakness 

· Fractured vertebrae 

· Spondylolisthesis 

· Recurrent herniated disc 

· Spinal instability 

· Spinal stenosis resulting from instability 

· Scoliosis and other spine deformities 

· Severe arthritis affecting the bones in your spine 

In some cases, chronic back is treatable using conservative treatments, such as steroid injections, regenerative medicine, or physical therapy. However, there are severe cases that may be unresponsive to traditional medications. In such cases, the skilled team at Polaris Spine and Neurosurgery Center may recommend lumbar fusion. Your surgeon may discuss your symptoms with you, review your medical history, conduct a thorough medical exam, and order imaging tests such as MRIs or X-rays to determine if you're eligible for the surgery. 

What Happens During A Lumbar Fusion Procedure? 

Before the procedure, the team may trim the hair around the target area and meticulously clean it with antiseptic. The team may also take a swab sample from your nose to monitor any unhealthy bacteria. Additionally, your surgeon may request you to stop taking any medications that you may be taking. Afterward, your provider injects you with general anesthesia to ensure that you're unconscious throughout the procedure. The team then utilizes cutting-edge robotic technology for accuracy and meticulousness. This state-of-art technology also helps in creating smaller incisions and reducing loss of blood. The spinal surgery team makes tiny incisions on your back to access your vertebrae and use bone grafts to join two vertebrae together. The surgeon positions the bone graft between two vertebrae and may utilize plates or rods to keep them together as they heal. 

What Should You Expect After Lumbar Fusion? 

After the surgery, you may need to stay at the hospital for a day or two for close monitoring. If you notice any signs of infection like tenderness, fever, or swelling on your back, inform your doctor immediately. Your surgeon may also recommend that you avoid overworking your back or wear braces during the healing phase. 

For more information about lumbar fusion, contact Polaris Spine and Neurosurgery Center.

Back Problems Common Causes And Prevention Options

Back problems are very common. Back pain is one of the most common reasons for seeing a doctor. The severity depends on its cause. However, most back problems are treatable if you seek help from Subach Spinal Solutions. There are lots of non-invasive treatment options and surgery is only used when necessary. 

Common Symptoms Of Back Pain 

● A stabbing pain 
● Pain that gets worse when lifting, or standing 
● Muscle ache 
● Pain that may radiate to your leg 

If you experience these symptoms, you should seek medical attention as soon as possible. Even though the symptoms may subside over time, they often require medical attention. You need emergency help if you experience any of the following symptoms: 

● Your back pain results in bladder issues 
● You have back pain following a fall or accident 
● The pain is severe and does not improve even when resting 
● Your back pain is accompanied by fever or sudden weight loss 
● The pain causes numbness, weakness, or a tingling sensation in legs 
● You have back pain for the first time at 50 or older 
● You have a history of osteoporosis 

What Are The Risk Factors For Back Pain? 

Even though back pain is a common problem for all ages, certain factors could increase your risk of getting back pain. They include; 

1. Age 

Older adults are at a higher risk of having back pain than younger ones. The problem is common around age 30 or older. 

2. Obesity 

Excessive weight increases your risk of back pain. Being overweight puts a lot of stress on your back

 3. Lifestyle 

Back problems may be common for those who live a sedentary lifestyle. If you do not exercise, your muscles may get weak leading to pain. 

4. Smoking 

Smokers are likely to experience back pain. Smoking limits the flow of blood to the lower spine making it difficult for it to receive nutrients. It slows down the healing process and causes pain. 

5. Diseases 

Certain diseases increase your risk of back pain. They include cancer and arthritis. Depression and anxiety may also make you prone to back pain. 

Prevention Options 

Even though it is common, back pain can be preventable. The following are some of the most effective tips for prevention. 

1. Exercise 

Regular exercise may help you prevent back pain. The right exercise to prevent back pain should be moderate. It should not put undue strain on your back. Some of the best aerobic exercises are swimming and walking. 

2. Maintaining A Healthy Weight 

If you are overweight or obese, attaining a healthy weight may relieve back pain. It reduces the strain on your back muscles 

3. Stop Smoking 

If you are a smoker, speak to your doctor about healthy ways to quit. Smoking could be making your back pain worse. 

Finding the best treatment option for your back pain depends on your ability to establish its main cause. It is not possible to get an accurate diagnosis without the help of a doctor. Seek medical help as soon as possible for significant or chronic back pain.

Relieve Neck And Back Pain With Personalized Integrative Treatment

Everyone experiences neck and back pain at a certain point in their lifetime. However, living with pain in your back or neck can burden your daily activities, affect your mood, and make it difficult for you to get a good rest at night. Fortunately, if you struggle with neck and back pain in Mason, the experienced staff at Elite Physical Medicine offer effective neck and back pain treatment. To get personalized pain management, call or schedule an appointment online with Elite Physical Medicine. 

What Causes Back And Neck Pain? 

Pain in your neck or back can develop due to various factors. In many patients, neck and back pain is caused by strained muscles due to lifting heavy objects, sleeping in the wrong position, working at a desk all day, overuse injury, or daily activities. Additionally, acute injury such as a fall or car accident can cause neck and back pain. As you age, neck and back pain may become a part of your life due to degenerative changes such as osteoarthritis. If the back pain is caused by sciatica, you may experience electrical sensations, shooting pain, or weakness in one of your legs or buttocks due to nerve compression. Weak abdominal muscles, poor posture, and excess body weight can also contribute to neck and back pain. 

What Are Other Symptoms Of Neck And Back Pain Other Than Pain? 

Depending on the cause of your neck or back pain, you might feel a shooting, aching, or sharp stabbing pain. You may also experience nerve symptoms like pain or tingling that goes down your leg or arm. Other symptoms that may be caused by the conditions that lead to neck and back pain include headaches, muscle tension, postural imbalance, decreased function, and limited mobility. You may have constant pain, or it could come and go. Neck and back pain affects our ability to do daily tasks and may result in depression and stress. The team at Elite Physical Medicine will offer you a whole scope of advanced treatment for all types of neck and back pain. 

How Is Neck And Back Pain Diagnosed? 

When you visit a medical specialist for neck and back pain treatment, they will start by doing a comprehensive exam to establish the cause of your pain. They will inquire about your medical history and the symptoms you are experiencing. Usually, you will be asked to make specific neck and back movements to evaluate your muscle strength and reflexes. For an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan, you may need to undertake X-rays and other tests. 

What Should You Expect During Back And Neck Pain Treatment? 

Depending on your diagnosis, the team at Elite Physical Medicine will design a personalized plan to help restore your mobility and function and relieve pain. They will work with you to include your concerns, personal preferences, and lifestyle in a plan that addresses your specific needs. Your integrative treatment plan may include joint injections, massage therapy, chiropractic adjustments, nerve blocks, regenerative medicine, and therapeutic exercise. The treatment plan involves three phases: structural healing, immediate pain relief, and ongoing maintenance. 

To sum up, neck and back pains are common and can be incapacitating; hence they need to be addressed by a medical professional as soon as possible. To get rid of neck and back pain and salvage your mobility and quality of life, call or schedule an appointment online with Elite Physical Medicine today.

What You Need To Know About A Pinched Nerve

A pinched nerve develops when excess force is put on a nerve or the area around it by the nearby bones, muscles, and tendons. Usually, the pressure affects the nerve making it send a warning signal to the brain. As a result, affected individuals experience tingling sensations, pain, and numbness. The feeling can disappear independently, but it can cause chronic discomfort at times. If the symptoms are affecting your functioning, book an appointment with a Roswell pinched nerve specialist for advanced treatment. Here is everything you need to know about a pinched nerve. 

What Are The Risk Factors Of Pinched Nerves? 

· Sports: A lot of sports involving contact or lifting heavy weights can be susceptible to nerve impingement.

· Intercourse: Women are at a higher risk of experiencing a pinched nerve compared to men. The most common one is carpal tunnel syndrome because females have a smaller carpal tunnel. 

· Thyroid Disease: Thyroid disease also increases the risks of developing carpal tunnel syndrome. 

· Rheumatoid Arthritis: Arthritis is a condition that causes inflammation and stiffness in joints. The inflammation can compress nerves and cause a pinched nerve. 

· Bone Spurs: Conditions that affect the bones, like osteoarthritis, could also increase the likelihood of developing pinched nerves. Osteoarthritis stiffens the bone and the spine, which narrows the space available for nerves to travel. 

· Overuse: People whose occupations require constant use of hands and shoulders could very easily experience a pinched nerve. Such occupations could include assembly related jobs. 

· Overweight: Excess weight gained during pregnancy or obesity exerts excess pressure on the nerves, which could cause swelling. In turn, such people could experience a pinched nerve. 

· Other Factors: Pre-existing medical conditions such as diabetes increases the likelihood of nerve compression. Additionally, too much bed rest could also cause nerve compression. 

Diagnosis Of A Pinched Nerve 

When you visit the doctor and suspect a pinched nerve, they will have to carry out additional tests before treatment. The tests include: 

· Electromyography: The specialist inserts a needle into the muscles to test their electrical activity when relaxing and contracting. They can then tell whether there is nerve damage affecting the muscle. 

· Nerve Conduction Study: The doctor places electrodes on your skin to study muscle functioning and measure electrical impulses. A small current passes through the nerves during the study to help the doctor determine whether you have nerve damage. 

· Magnetic Resonance Imaging: MRI uses a magnetic field to create a view of your body. The test checks whether you have nerve root compression. 

· High-Resolution Ultrasound: This test uses sound waves to produce images of your body. The doctor can use the test to confirm a nerve compression syndrome like carpal tunnel syndrome. 

Treatment Of A Pinched Nerve 

You should seek medical attention if the pain, numbness, weakness, or tingling symptoms have gone on for several days without getting better, even after self-care measures. The doctor may use physical therapy, medications, or surgery for advanced symptoms. 

Specialists at Apex Spine and Neurosurgery use the modern minimally invasive technology to ensure you recover as soon as possible with minimal discomfort. You may need to restrict your diet before treatment and bring a friend along. Book an appointment today for a consultation if you suspect you may be suffering from a pinched nerve.

Exercises For A Healthy Spine

Dr. James Chang in East Brunswick is one of the best sports medicine specialists and orthopedists in New Jersey. One thing in particular that he can help you with is spinal disorders if you live in NJ or New York. 

Most chronic back pains are caused by issues to the spine. A good exercise routine should help you strengthen your back and spine. 

However, there are certain stretches that specifically help your spine. They will ensure that your spine is aligned and your back muscles are flexible. 

The following are four examples of exercises for a healthy spine: 

1. Back Flexion Exercise 

As the name suggests, the exercise involves stretching your back muscles. It will also help align the spine by curving and stretching it. 

The exercise is done by first lying flat on your back. Lift both of your knees and pull them towards you. Lift your head and try to connect your face to your knees. 

Hold that position for thirty seconds and then take a rest for however long you need. Repeat the exercise five times and you should feel a great stretch in your back. 

2. Knee To Chest Stretch 

The knee to stretch is another great way to lengthen your spine and stretch your back. It is very similar to the back flexion exercise. 

You begin by lying flat on your back. Lift one knee and pull it towards you. Try to get the knee to touch your chest. If you are unable to reach the chest just pull as hard as is comfortable. 

Put the leg back on the ground and stretch the other leg in the same manner. Ensure that you put your back on the ground while you stretch for support. 

3. Neck Stretch 

The spine reaches all the way up to the neck, so stretching the neck is a great exercise to maintain a healthy spine. This exercise involves stretching the neck in all directions and can be done anywhere. Stand straight with your head looking forward. Drop your head to the right and towards your right shoulder. Place your hand on the side of your head and pull your head gently to the right. 

Hold for thirty seconds and then release your head into a neutral position. Repeat the sequence on the other side. 

Place your hands on the back of your head and then pull your head forwards towards your chest. Hold the position for thirty seconds and then relax. 

Lift your head upwards and look towards the ceiling. Hold the position and feel the stretch in the front of your neck. You can repeat the sequences as long as you like. 

4. Hip Crossover Stretch 

The hip crossover stretch is a particularly great movement for the lower back and spine. However, it will also stretch your hip and glutes.

Lie flat on your back, preferably on a mat. Bend your knees about shoulder width apart. Cross your left leg over the right leg and lift your left leg. Use your hands to pull your left knee towards your chest. 

Hold the position for thirty seconds, and then repeat the sequence on the other side. Repeat this lumbar spine exercise as many times as you want for a stronger and more flexible lower back.

11 Amazing Benefits Of Going To A Chiropractor

More than 35 million Americans visit a chiropractor every year, according to a study by the American Chiropractic Association. There are many different reasons to visit a chiropractor, whether it be muscle or spine-related, and there are even more benefits to doing so. 

If you have aches and pains in your body and your doctor has suggested a chiropractor, you could be one step away from receiving amazing benefits that your body will thank you for. Still don’t believe the advantages of chiropractic care? Read on to learn 11 benefits that will have your body screaming “thank you”! 

1. Boost Immune System 

In the midst of the crazy 2020, most everyone wants their immune system to be boosted. Getting chiropractic care is a great way to do so naturally. Getting a chiropractic adjustment could trigger a boost to antibodies and a down regulating for pro-inflammatory cytokines. 

It may also increase production of leukocytes, which assist blood cells in fending off disease. This occurs without having to take any pills or vitamins, while also easing other aches and pains in your body. 

Along with this, because our immune system is directly linked to your spine, having an aligned spine can also boost your immune system. The function of your nerve system is improved by aligning your spinal bones and protecting your spinal cord. This will ensure that your system is powering as it should, and is not thrown off track by a misalignment in your body. 

2. Reduce Digestive Problems 

One of the most common bodily problems humans face is digestive issues. If there is an alignment issue in certain parts of your body it can cause problems with digestion. Getting realigned can help reduce this inflammation and promote better digestion, specifically if you consistently see a chiropractor. 

Many chiropractors also offer nutritional care, which can help aid you in your digestive journey. After taking preliminary tests and seeing where the problem may lay, getting adjustments combined with nutritional changes can ease your digestive problems. 

3. Reduce Blood Pressure 

If you have a spine that is not aligned correctly, it can cause other parts of your body to not work correctly as well. This can cause pressure to build up on other bodily functions, such as your blood pressure, and can increase the risk for high blood pressure. Getting your spine or neck aligned correctly within different treatment plans can improve this or prevent it altogether. 

4. Improve Sleep 

Sleep is surely one of the essential aspects of being human and keeping healthy. Having a sore neck, constant headaches, and back or spinal pain can affect your sleep negatively. 

In fact, if you are suffering from these aches and not sleeping, your aches will only get worse, and you will be stuck in a spiral. Getting your body properly aligned will reduce inflammation and can ease these aches, allowing you to get a more restful sleep. 

5. Improve Balance 

This benefit focuses directly on your spine. The healthier and more durable your spine is, the more likely you will be to have a strong back. This makes having good balance easier, which will reduce your likeliness of falling or injuring yourself. 

If your spine, neck, or pelvis is misaligned, your balance can be way off and can lead to other injuries. Getting these aligned fixes more than just your balance, and can keep you from having to get back surgery in the future. This is also true for people who suffer from arthritis or osteoporosis. These diseases can affect balance as well as mobility, particularly for elderly people. Getting adjustments to help aid these problems can increase balance for elderly people as well. 

6. Straightens Scoliosis 

Scoliosis is a very common disease, characterized by the sideways curve of the spine, most commonly found in children right before they experience puberty. Though the cause of Scoliosis is unknown, chiropractic care has been proven to treat it safely. 

Getting chiropractic realignments can reduce the pressure on the nervous system and strengthen your body’s core, which will reduce the effects of Scoliosis. Chiropractic care can be a great alternative to getting spinal surgery, and though it might not completely cure Scoliosis, it can reduce the side effects and can possibly reduce the curve of the spine without any medication. 

7. Reduce Neck Pain 

Treating neck pain is one of the most popular reasons people visit the chiropractor. Your neck is very susceptible to injury because of its flexibility and the weight of your head it holds up. Depending on what caused your neck pain, a chiropractor will be able to treat it without any medication using neck adjustments. 

Neck adjustments focus on the joints in your neck and are usually done by hand with quick, swift movements. After one adjustment you will typically feel a larger range of motion and less soreness, but it will usually take more than one treatment for your neck pain to be completely cured. 

8. Treats Sciatica 

Your sciatica nerve is located through your lower back down into the back of your legs. This pain typically occurs when a herniated disk puts pressure on this nerve and can be debilitating depending on how bad the pressure is. 

Chiropractic adjustments can help reduce the pressure on the nerve and the inflammation it causes, without having to take any steroids or get any procedures. This could be adjustments to your spine, lower back, or hips depending on where your pain occurs, and often takes a program of treatments. Finding a specific chiropractor for sciatica can be one of the best options to make sure you are getting the best treatment possible. 

9. Reduce Lower Back Pain 

Lower back pain can be caused by a multitude of reasons. Oftentimes, bad posture can be the culprit, a lifetime of athletics, or perhaps a personal injury. Pressure can be put on your lower back when your spine is out of alignment, or different joints of muscles are not properly positioned. Chiropractors can take tests such as X-rays to see exactly where your problem is and realign you accordingly. If you have had back surgery and still feel back pain, this can be a great solution without costing you extra money. 

10. Reduce Headaches 

If you constantly suffer from intense migraines, something in your body could be misaligned and putting pressure on something it shouldn’t be. If your spine is misaligned, it could be causing pressure and inflammation to form on your neck and head. This is also true if your neck needs adjustment. 

Consider chiropractic care if other treatments have not worked for you and if you have other pains that could coincide. Many chiropractors also offer alternative care to solve headaches that don’t involve adjustments, such as providing nutritional advice, as food can be an important trigger for headaches. 

11. Increase Relaxation 

In the year 2020, everyone could use more relaxation. If you do suffer from any neck or back pain, getting these problems solved will provide you with the ability to relax better. However, even if you don’t suffer from any of those aches and pains, chiropractic care can still help you relax. 

Your heart rate variability (HRV) is a measure of your body’s relaxation. The higher HRV, the better for your overall health. Visiting a chiropractor and getting an adjustment in your back can increase your HRV, which will promote your body’s relaxation and reduce stress levels. It can even reduce the possibility of heart attacks, and increase recovery times for surgical patients. If you feel stressed and need to relax, consider getting a lumbar adjustment as an alternative to other remedies. 

Using A Chiropractor For Care 

Though these benefits may seem like a magical fix to your problems, it’s important to note that it is most often not a one-time fix. It will take many visits to your chiropractor before your pain is fixed, and it oftentimes requires consistent visits throughout many years. 

You will need a preliminary visit for your chiropractor to discover where your pain is coming from, and then scheduled visits to keep up with your pain. Your chiropractor will have suggestions for how to keep your pain maintained, and you will have to keep up with your visits in order for the treatment to be effective. 

Soon, you’ll feel much better and be so glad you did see a chiropractor! Read more of our health and fitness articles for extra frugal tips and tricks you can put to good use.

10 Natural Medical Remedies For Back Injuries

Back pain is a very common problem for patients in the United States. In fact, lower back pain causes more global disability than any other medical issue. What’s more, over 80% of American adults will experience a back problem during their lifetime. 

Back pain can be caused by a number of medical conditions and injuries, including: 

- Muscle or ligament strain 

- Bulging or ruptured disks 

- Sclerosis 

- Arthritis 

- Osteoporosis 

- Poor posture when sitting 

- Spinal deformity 

- Fractured vertebra 

Now, back pain can interfere with your everyday life, both personally and professionally. Thus, it isn’t something that you can ignore or wait for it to resolve on its own. 

This article explores both natural and medical popular remedies for back pain you might consider to cope with your back injury. 

Top Natural Remedies For Back Pain 

Natural remedies have been gaining momentum over the last couple of years. As research is moving forwards, scientists are discovering more and more benefits of natural treatments for various medical conditions, including back pain. However, keep in mind that natural remedies typically offer relief for mild to moderate discomfort. What’s more, the opinion of a medical expert regarding your problem is necessary even if you use the following natural remedies to deal with back pain. 

1. Exercising 

A long time ago, bed rest was typically suggested for treating acute back pain. However, as scientists have gained more insights into this medical condition, exercising is actually recommended as the first-line treatment for both acute and chronic back pain. 

Simple exercises like walking and gentle stretches, and avoiding sitting for long periods is actually recommended when you are experiencing back pain. 

However, remember to move in moderation. Practice simple exercises, such as yoga and tai chi, which involve slow and graceful movements and incorporate meditation and deep breathing. 

2. Massage 

Massage therapy is another popular remedy for treating back pain. Many people struggling with back pain have reported that massage therapy relaxes them and eases their chronic pain. 

Gently massaging a sore or tense muscle helps loosen it up and relieve pain. In fact, one study found that massage combined with traditional treatment can reduce pain, improve back function, minimize days in bed, and lessen the use of anti-inflammatory medications. 

However, keep in mind that massage therapy, without being combined with traditional treatment, only provides short-term relief. 

3. Acupuncture 

Acupuncture is a popular remedy for chronic lower back pain. The American College of Physicians rates the evidence for this natural pain remedy as having moderate quality. However, traditional Chinese medicine, it is believed that pain is caused by blocked energy along the meridians of the body, which is why acupuncture practitioners use needles to unblock the energy. 

4. Spinal Manipulation 

Chiropractors use spinal manipulation to restore joint mobility. What is spinal manipulation? It represents controlled force applied manually on joints which have become restricted by muscle injury, strain, inflammation, and pain. 

Spinal manipulation is believed to help relieve pain, ease muscle tightness, and speed up the process of healing. 

5. Herbal Medicines 

Over the past several years, scientists have been studying the effects of various herbs to see their effects on different medical conditions, including back pain. 

One herb, Capsicum frutescens, or cayenne, has been observed to help reduce pain more than placebo. Devil’s claw, lavender essential oil, white willow bark, and comfrey have also shown evidence of helping reduce pain more than compared to placebo. 

Medical Remedies For Back Pain 

Unlike natural remedies, medical remedies for back pain need to be done with the help of a medical expert. Your doctor needs to examine your back and identify the cause of the pain. Common tests run by medical experts to diagnose back problems include X-ray, CT scans, blood tests, bone scans, and nerve studies. Doctors often recommend the following medical remedies for back pain depending on the patient’s medical history and the underlying cause of the pain: 

6. Medications 

Pain killers, muscle relaxants, narcotics, NSAIDs, and topical pain relievers are the medications used in treatment for back pain. These drugs relieve pain and reduce inflammation. 

7. Physical Therapy 

Physical therapists assist you in practicing exercises that increase flexibility, strengthen back and abdominal muscles, and improve posture. For example, if you are an office worker and struggle with back pain caused by poor posture when sitting, your doctor will most likely recommend physical therapy, among other treatments. 

8. Spinal Fusion 

Spinal fusion surgery is often the solution for back problems caused by more serious medical conditions, such as herniated discs, spinal stenosis, spinal deformity, or fractured vertebra. 

This type of surgery involves fusing two or more vertebra together using bone grafts to correct the injury or the malformation of the spine that is the cause of your pain. Complete Well Being has a more detailed article on spinal fusion surgery. 

Spinal fusion surgery is a popular medical remedy for back injuries and pain. In fact, over 350,000 such procedures are performed every year in the US. 

9. Radiofrequency Neurotomy 

Radiofrequency neurotomy is another popular medical procedure to treat chronic back pain. It is a nonsurgical procedure that uses radio waves to help you get rid of the pain. The medical doctor uses a fine needle, inserting its tip through your skin in the area where you feel pain. Through the needle, radio waves are passed in your body and damage the nearby nerves, which impacts the delivery of pain signals your brain receives. 

10. Implanted Nerve Stimulators 

Nerve stimulators are devices that get implanted in your spinal cord. These implanted devices send low levels of electricity directly to your spinal cord, relieving pain. Doctors often recommend this remedy after nonsurgical pain treatment options have failed to fix the cause of the back pain.

Pain Management - What Can You Do?

When considering options for pain management, there are several different factors to consider before understanding what the best protocol can be for any specific situation. Every situation does not require medical assistance but it is always in a person's best interest to see a professional medical expert to rule out anything serious. If you live in Frisco, TX, interventional pain management assistance can be found through the Spine & Joint Physicians of Frisco. 

The level of vigilance and understanding that can be done in your daily routine can seriously boost recovery, reduce the risk of injury and lessen any existing pain. 

Daily Habits That Reduce Pain Symptoms 

Stretching 

Stretching and flexibility can greatly reduce the symptoms of pain that relate to bone, joint, ligament or muscle problems. It is best to start with basic stretches that don't go too far out of a comfortable range of motion. 

This can help identify problem areas but also help strengthen areas that are recovering, in certain cases it can also prevent muscles from becoming too tight and will assist in the avoidance of postural problems later down the line. 

The best time to stretch is before any injuries have occurred but this information is not always known until somebody seeks professional advice, quite often after an accident or diagnosis has already happened. 

Keep A Journal Of Your Experiences 

Keeping a pain journal is beneficial in many ways, it promotes patients to become more aware of their situation. When we commit to learning more about our routine, habits and connection with our body, it allows for better communication with a medical professional. 

Keeping a pain journal also allows you to keep an eye on what time of day your pains are most problematic, or if they are improving or not, over time. Doing this may help you decide whether or not you do wish to seek professional help so you can work with someone who is qualified to assist and treat. 

Maintain A Healthy Balanced Diet 

Maintaining a healthy balanced diet is essential for proper recovery. It becomes even more essential when a person is injured or in constant pain as there is a higher demand on the body than in a normal situation. 

The human body requires a lot of calories and macro-nutrients to function, when an injury or ailment occurs, all of your essential nutrients are partitioned to fight and recover. If these aspects are not addressed fully then it will impede a proper recovery process. 

Rest 

If you feel like you need to, then we advise that you rest up. Getting a good night of sleep every night is also essential when it comes to pain management. When we sleep, our body repairs itself. 

It is always wise to speak up about any concerns, whether they seem small to others or not. An appointment with our team can help put minds at ease and answer all of your questions.

Tips for Coping with Chronic Pain

Chronic pain in Santa Monica is known to change lives. It affects self-image, interrupts plans, and affects others. It is an issue that some people, even those living with it, do not understand. Others even refuse to accept it. It is normal for people to feel angry when pain cannot allow them to engage in activities that they enjoy or carry out simple routine tasks. If you have been diagnosed with chronic pain, you need to learn new skills to cope with the new reality. Below is a rundown of some tips on how you can cope with chronic pain. 

Understand The Nature Of The Problem 

Today, when most people feel like there is a problem with their health, they run to the internet for self-diagnosis and treatment. However, the reliability of the information you see on the internet cannot be guaranteed. Therefore, it is wise to always seek the opinion of an expert. The same is true when it comes to chronic pain. For you to cope with the issue, you first need to understand the nature of your problem. The best way to do this is to seek the assistance of a doctor. If your family doctor offers chronic pain management services, you can talk to them. The doctor will assess the nature of your problem and its triggers. He or she will then help you to come up with a practical chronic pain management plan, which will go a long way in helping you to cope. 

Accept The New Reality 

The ability to cope with chronic pain really depends on a patient's emotional skills. Accepting the situation and having a positive attitude and expectations is quite an important step that patients have to take when it comes to coping with chronic pain. If you keep telling yourself that you are in the worst condition ever and that getting relief is not possible, it is going to be very difficult for you to get positive outcomes from treatment or therapy. 

Learn To Calm Your Body Down 

Biologically speaking, pain in itself is not a bad thing. It is the natural way through which the body tells you that there is a problem with a given area or part of your body. The problem is that with chronic pain, the continuous pain causes ongoing stress which can damage your body. Therefore, calming your body is something that you will have to learn in order to manage chronic pain. Some common relaxation techniques that you can learn to calm your body include yoga, tai chi, qi gong, among others. 

The Takeaway 

Overall, it is apparent that being diagnosed with chronic pain can be quite devastating. However, chronic pain is something that you can manage to cope with to prevent it from damaging your body. In addition to seeking medical assistance from your family doctor or pain management specialist, there are several skills that you should learn in order to cope with it. If you are looking for a reliable family physician to help with the management of chronic pain, GreenBridge Medical is your best choice.

7 Tips on How to Combat Back Pain Naturally

Chronic lower Back pain is, perhaps, one of the most common discomforts that people often complain about. Half the population of working Americans claiming they experience its symptoms year in and year out. What’s even more alarming is the fact that this common ailment can lead to more serious disabilities if taken lightly. 

Symptoms And Causes Of Back Pain 

Some studies have shown that 31 million Americans experience back pain, specifically low back pain, at any point in time. It’s usually caused by skeletal irregularities, osteoporosis, muscle strain, or arthritis. You may already be suffering from it but are too preoccupied with your everyday activities to notice. How will you know if you have it? 

Here are some signs to watch out for with back pain: 

- Pain radiating from your back down to your leg 
- A shooting or stabbing pain in your back 
- Limited range of motion or flexibility in your back 
- Muscle aches and pain 

Fortunately, there are natural home treatments you can try to manage back pain. It usually takes two weeks for the pain to improve gradually once you administer self-care. However, if symptoms continue to persist, you need to seek consultation with your doctor right away. That’s because back pain can be an indication of a more serious medical problem especially if it’s accompanied by fever, weakness, numbness in one or both legs, bowel or bladder problems, and weight loss. 

Natural Ways to Combat Back Pain 

Symptoms associated with back pain are bound to disrupt daily physical activities. These include pain in the back or around the hips and reduced flexibility of the spine, both of which cause sleeping discomfort and difficulty. 

Nevertheless, you can try the following natural ways to combat the discomfort brought by back pain: 

1. Stretching 

Perhaps the best way to strengthen tense muscles and make them more limber is by stretching. In some ways, it can help ease back pain, too. However, it will all depend on the cause and location of your backache. You should stretch as gently as possible and stop as soon as it starts hurting. You should never force the stretches; otherwise, you risk aggravating your injury. 

2. Cold Compress 

Ice can be a very good pain reliever. It can reduce swelling and temporarily block pain signals; thus, it can greatly help ease backaches. Simply wrap an ice pack with a towel on the painful area and leave on for 20 minutes. Apply it as needed during the first few days of home treatment. 

3. Practice Good Posture and Sitting Position 

If you spend much time sitting down, like at work or during long commutes, you’ll be more prone to back pains. Hence, you need to sit properly or at least look for a good sitting position that will give the least stress on your back area. Look for an ergonomically balanced chair that lines up the bones in your spine neatly, making sure to execute a good posture on your chair to achieve this. Moreover, keep your keyboard within your reach and your feet planted flat on the floor to keep yourself from leaning forward. 

4. Ginger 

Ginger functions the same way over-the-counter pain relievers do. It can reduce pain symptoms and discomfort caused by inflammatory ailments like back pains. However, unlike drugs, it’s all natural. You can use ginger root as a warm compress. Simply press it onto the painful area a couple of times. You can also drink ginger tea and ginger juice or incorporate it into the dishes you cook. Alternatively, you can also rub ginger oil directly on the affected area. 

5. Massage 

Gently massaging a tense or sore muscle is one of the most natural and effective ways of relieving back pain. Doing so can loosen knotted muscles. A massage can also alleviate muscle spasms that usually occur when your rib or thoracic joints lose mobility. You can set up an appointment with a personal masseuse for a session, but if you can’t afford one, you can ask a family member to massage your aching back. 

6. Use Back Belts & Braces 

Back pain and discomfort can render you incapable of doing your daily activities. Likewise, a sedentary lifestyle can make your back muscles weak, further predisposing you to back pain. Wear a back support belt and try to lead a more active lifestyle. 

7. Weight Management 

Your back pain can be due to excess weight. Each time you gain weight, you also add strain to the muscles and ligaments in the back. Hence, it’s important to pay close attention to your overall weight and aim to lose weight the right way. Keep records daily or weekly to help track progress, but avoid reading into the scale weight on any 1 particular day (water weight can fluctuate daily by several pounds). Maintaining a healthy body weight will not only lessen the pain caused by back pains but it will also lighten the load of back muscles.

Conclusion

It's time to fix your back naturally! Follow these tips and your back should start feeling better without resorting to dangerous drugs or surgery.

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Frugal Sports Medicine: Causes of Back Pain

Submitted By Phillip Peters, Inventor of Shane's Neck Brace
Written By Jared A. James

Although many people will suffer from back or neck pain at some point in their lives, it can be quite difficult to diagnose these acute, short-term problems. Often, a muscle strain may be the culprit, which can heal in a manner of days or weeks. But for chronic pain in the neck and back, doctors have named a variety of disorders that people commonly experience. From sciatica to spinal stenosis, being aware of a few of these common painful conditions may help people suffering from back injuries understand why they are in pain and what treatment paths to take when they are recovering.

If a person has shortening of muscle fibers or periodic spasms in the neck, spasmodic torticollis may be the problem. The neck muscles may contract so much that the neck is forced to turn from a neutral position to a deranged one. Unfortunately, though, doctors do not know what actually causes this condition. A reaction to drugs or medication is the most common reason people suffer from spasmodic torticollis, but the actual reason that some people develop it is uncertain. Treatments for the condition involve such modalities as physical therapy, injections of botulinum toxin into the neck muscles, drugs to control the pain, or even surgery in some cases.

Sciatica is a condition in which the nerve roots are compressed. The most common cause is a vertebral disc begins to protrude out of the spinal column and additional pressure is put on the spinal cord. Osteoarthritis, bony irregularities, tumors, and abscesses may also cause sciatica. People who have this condition often describe the pain as burning or stabbing, and pain or numbness may be felt all the way from the lower back to the feet, with discomfort in the hips or knees also present. Rest, rehabilitative exercises, spinal flossing, medication, and surgery have all be used to treat sciatica, with varying degrees of success in different patients.

Another disorder that can cause harmful pressure on the spinal cord and sciatic nerve roots is called lumbar spinal stenosis. This results from a narrowing of the spinal canal in the lower back or upper back regions. In fact, it may even be one of the causes of sciatica. Degenerative diseases such as osteoarthritis or disc degeneration may lead to spinal stenosis. Pain is most commonly experienced in the hips, thighs, and even down to the calves, and may be felt when standing, walking, and running. The treatments for spinal stenosis are similar to treatments for sciatica and aim to reduce spinal compression causing pain.

Though there are a number of other conditions that can cause pain in the back and neck, these ones detailed here are some of the most common but most debilitating for those suffering from them. Pain in the lower back and neck can be very uncomfortable, even when it lasts only for a day or a week at the most. But chronic conditions such as sciatica or disc disease can cause pain for a great portion of person’s life. This makes it even more important to find ways to deal with the problem by reducing the pain and then relearning how to move without severe back or neck pain.

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