Spine-Health - Back Pain, Neck Pain, Lower Back Pain

5 Ways to Minimize Failed Back Surgery and Continued Back Pain

cmaynard — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 16:35:52 +0000

November 5, 2009
by: Sylvia Marten

A back surgery may not achieve its desired results for various reasons that are out of the patient’s hands; with that said, there are some things that patients can do to minimize the chance of an unsuccessful surgery in which postoperative [url:145,type=|term|,content=|back pain|] is present.

Be Confident in Your Diagnosis

The number one reason that back surgeries are not effective is because of misdiagnosis of the probable cause of back pain, leading to operation on the wrong anatomical lesion. Prefacing this point, it’s important to know that [url:1583,type=|node|,content=|spine surgery|] is only indicated when there is an identifiable anatomical lesion causing spinal instability or nerve pinching.

With this stated, assess your spine surgeon’s confidence in his or her diagnosis of the source of your back pain. Ask them about the specific anatomic lesion that would be addressed by the surgery, the alternatives to surgery, and what would happen if the condition is left untreated, and also question the surgeon on why he or she is recommending the specific surgery.

If the surgeon is unsure about the diagnosis, if you are not confident in the answers provided or if you would just be more comfortable, consider getting a second opinion. Visiting a different spine surgeon can allow the patient to get another perspective on radiographic findings and see what that surgeon would suggest for the situation.

Remember that if you are going to have surgery, you owe it to yourself to know that you’re doing it for the right reason. Understand how to get an [url:673,type=|node|,content=|accurate back pain diagnosis|].
Trust Your Spine Surgeon

It goes without saying that your spine surgeon will play a major part in the success of your surgery. Regardless of whatever surgery is suggested, ask the surgeon about his or her experience performing the procedure. For example:
- How many of the recommended surgeries does this surgeon perform each year?
- How have other patients fared in the past following a similar surgery by this surgeon?
- Does the surgeon have any patients who have had the same surgery and would be willing to talk to you about their experiences?
- Who would be assisting with the surgery?
As you will be entrusting this person with your health during surgery, it’s important to be confident and comfortable with your spine surgeon. Consider these specific [url:1549,type=|node|,content=|questions to ask your spine surgeon|].

Know the Percentages

Patients should know that even with the best surgeon and indications, spine surgery is not 100% guaranteed to produce a successful result. In other words, a spine surgery can be performed for the right anatomical reason and done according to textbook, yet some pain may still exist following surgery.

To cover some of your bases in regards to this above point, know the success rates of the recommended surgery. For example:
- Certain surgeries like a discectomy or microdiscectomy for a lumbar herniated disc that is causing [url:887,type=|node|,content=|leg pain|], and a spine fusion for spinal instability from spondylolisthesis are more predictable operations.
- On the other hand, surgeries like a discectomy for a herniated lumbar disc causing [url:896,type=|node|,content=|lower back pain|] or a spinal fusion for multi-level lumbar degenerative disc disease are far less likely to be successful.
Knowing the success/failure rates of specific back surgeries can provide patients with a better feel for the surgery, yet patients should not put full stock in these success rates as applied to their situations. For example, just because a surgery is successful 90% to 95% of the time doesn’t mean that it will automatically be so for you.

Learn more about what you can expect from [url:1615,type=|node|,content=|spine surgery for lower back pain|].

Be Ready to Rehabilitate

Back surgery is more than just the surgery, with rehabilitation playing an important role in making the surgery as beneficial as it can be. Probably the second most common reason that back surgeries do not succeed is because of inadequate or improper rehabilitation following the procedure.

With this in mind:
- Understand what your rehabilitation program will entail following surgery (how many hours per day/times per week, etc.)
- Speak to a physical therapist to learn more about your rehabilitation program and to get a projected schedule of what will be expected of you
- Honestly ask yourself if you will be dedicated and self-motivated to rehabbing to the best of your abilities after surgery.
Learn more about the importance of [url:1239,type=|node|,content=|rehabilitation and exercise following spine surgery|].

Set Realistic Expectations and Avoid Stress as Best as Possible

Easier said than done when it comes to having surgery, this point hits on the overall theme of doing your homework prior to surgery.

Ideally, the more prepared you are for surgery, the more prepared you’ll be for it afterward. Extensive research has demonstrated how the patient’s overall experience and ultimate outcome from back surgery can be improved with psychological preparation.

From having confidence in your decision to have surgery to making accommodations in your work and daily life for rehabilitation prior to surgery to even having your [url:6591,type=|node|,content=|post-operation must-haves|] all in order before the operation, there are many ways in which you can minimize certain stressors and focus on what matters the most: achieving effective pain relief after surgery.

Learn [url:1453,type=|node|,content=|how to prepare psychologically for back surgery|].

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[url:1472,type=|node|,content=|Lumbar Decompression Surgery|]
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11 Ergonomic Tips for Synchronizing Your Workstation and Office Chair

cmaynard — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 13:59:34 +0000

October 29, 2009
by: Sylvia Marten

Having the best designed and most ergonomically-friendly office equipment may not necessarily mean much for preventing [url:145,type=|term|,content=|back pain|], [url:149,type=|term|,content=|neck pain|] and other pain if such equipment is out of sync with your workstation, as confirmed in a recent study that provides a great forum for examining how you can adjust an office chair to your work environment.

Detailed in the October issue of the Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, a new study found that workers who received not only new ergonomic office furniture but professional set-up by an ergonomist had less symptoms of musculoskeletal pain and eyestrain 18 months later than those workers who had to set up their new furniture on their own based off instructions.

Now what if your employer can’t afford to hire a professional ergonomist to visit your office during these tough economic times? Well, there are still many ways to be proactive when setting up your office chair and desk just right to your needs and the principles of [url:158,type=|term|,content=|ergonomics|].

Understand the Ultimate Goal

Having a special chair is often viewed as the be-all, end-all of correct office ergonomics. While an ergonomically-designed chair can certainly do wonders, remember that the ultimate goal is to achieve balance between finding a work chair that fits you, provides good support and minimizes stress on the back, and using it correctly in relation to your work environment.

Before providing instant analysis of your chair, examine other factors, including your optimal desk level, how you sit, and the height of your computer screen, and strive to improve on these areas.

Get Suited to Your Work Surface

Rather than just going out and buying a new chair, ask yourself “what type of chair will fit your work station?” Examine how long you sit all day and how you sit at your desk.

Are you semi-seated (similar to sitting on a bar stool) or do you sit straight up? Do you need to adjust your chair? Where is your computer in relation to your body?

Determine your appropriate work surface (which takes into account the position of your arms, elbows and hands in relation to your desk’s height and your laptop or desktop computer) and be sure to have a chair that allows you to attain this specific height.

The correct surface level can vary from profession to profession (for example, architects and draftsmen often prefer to sit higher), and the final decision as to what’s appropriate is thus determined by each individual.

Become a Series of Right Angles While Sitting and Typing

Sit down straight and as close and comfortable as possible to your desk, with your upper arms parallel to the spine and your hands rested on the work surface.

At this point, take a step back and examine whether your elbows are at a 90-degree angle. If they are not, adjust your office chair higher or lower as deemed fit.

Also make sure that your legs are bent at the knees at a 90 degree angle. Try to maintain this ideal sitting posture as much as possible, and if you find yourself slacking, give yourself a break by getting up and stretching.

Don’t Sit Too High Unless Necessary

Did you know that all of our ankles swell up anywhere from 6 to 8 percent by the end of the day, but for patients with back, leg or circulation problems, this swelling can jump from 10 to 15 percent, especially if sitting in a chair that is too high and leaves the feet dangling?

Generally speaking, a seat height ranging from 16 to 21 inches off the ground is suitable for most workers. To tell whether your chair is too high or at the right height for the desk surface, slide your finger underneath your thigh at the front end of the chair.

If this proves easy to do, your chair is likely at a good height. However, if this proves difficult, your chair is likely too high, which can put extra pressure on your feet and require you to proceed to the next tip.

Boost Your Feet in Certain Situations

In situations where you have to lift your feet off the ground because of a chair or even a desk that is too high, or where the chair height is right but you’re not that tall, consider using a foot stool to prop and rest your feet as opposed to leaving them hanging all day long.

Such action will reduce both pressure on the feet and the likelihood of foot pain at the end of the day.

Raise Your Work Surface When Applicable

Standard seats should allow for 2-4 inches between the back of the knees and chair.

However, if you’re a taller worker, you may be familiar with this problem: your chair seat is not long enough for your thighs, which have too much space underneath them. In these rarer situations, raising the work surface level may be necessary to ensure circulation at the back of the knee.

Make a Fist to Your Calf

Ensure that there is enough room between the front edge of your chair and calves by simply making a fist, bringing it to the edge of the chair and pushing it on the calf.

If you can fit your full fist between the front edge and your calf, you likely have enough space for circulation and pressure. If not, your chair is likely too deep.

Adjusting the backrest forward, inserting a cushion, pillow or rolled-up towel to support your [url:1614,type=|term|,content=|lumbar spine|] (lower back), or purchasing a new office chair are some possible solutions to this problem.

Have the Support of Your Back

Back support is a main focus of many ergonomic chairs, but what makes a chair good in terms of supporting the back?

Ideally your work chair should do a couple of things: provide back support angling just past 90 degrees or up to 90 degrees, and include cushioning that pushes your back forward when sitting back in the chair.

Such low back support is essential in preventing slouching as you tire and minimizing the load or strain on your back. With this in mind, the backrest of an ideal ergonomic office chair is typically between 12 and 19 inches wide.

Sit Right

A lot of times, workers have chairs with great back support but don’t take advantage of these features because they sit on the edge of the chair.

Make a conscious effort to press your bottom against the back of the chair, and avoid slumping or slouching, which places extra stress on the lumbar discs and other structures of the lower back.

Apply A Different Kind of Eye Test

Once your chair has been adjusted to the height of the table, your legs have gotten comfortable and your back is supported, close your eyes and take a deep breath.

Casually look forward with your eyes closed, and then open your eyes, which should be aimed at the center of your computer screen. Depending on whether the computer screen is higher or lower than your gaze, you may need to raise or lower the monitor.

If you need to raise your laptop, consider using a stack of books or even a small box, which has personally helped me reduce the likelihood of neck strain at work.

Adjust Your Armrest

Armrests play an important role in reducing neck and shoulder strain and diminishing the likelihood of slouching forward in your chair.

Adjust the armrest to the point where your arms are slightly lifted at the shoulders. Doing so will allow the armrest to support just the elbow and take weight off the shoulders.

Perhaps after making all these changes, you ultimately decide that you do need a new office chair.

If you find yourself in the market for a new chair, you’ll want to consider many factors, including the seat’s height, width, depth, materials, armrests, back rest, lumbar support and swivel.

For more information, view the following article: [url:1092,type=|node|,content=|Choosing the Right Ergonomic Office Chair|].

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10 Tips for Preventing Osteoporosis on World Osteoporosis Day

cmaynard — Tue, 20 Oct 2009 15:53:13 +0000

October 20, 2009
by: Sylvia Marten

In a further effort to break the silence about the dangerous consequences of osteoporosis and to achieve more education and public policy for the prevention of this disease, October 20, 2009 has been designated World Osteoporosis Day (WOD).

For our part on WOD, Spine-health is pleased to offer these 10 tips on how patients can become more aware of osteoporosis today to avoid it from occurring later on in life.

Understand Osteoporosis Risk Factors

Roughly 10 million Americans suffer from osteoporosis, with women accounting for 80 percent of those patients, but men still at risk, especially when over the age of 50.

Various factors like age, gender, family history, race, body type, menstrual history, and personal lifestyle and history can make certain patients more susceptible to osteoporosis with aging. Where do you fit with these [url:15558,type=|node|,content=|osteoporosis risk factors|]?

As we typically start to lose some bone density during our 30s, it’s important to have an advanced understanding of osteoporosis risk factors in order to start taking corrective and preventative steps in these early years.

Break Out Your Family Genes

Heredity – including genes specific to Vitamin-D receptors and estrogen-receptors – can indicate patients who are more likely to lose more bone mineral density (BMD) and suffer from osteoporosis in their 50s, 60s or 70s.

Additionally, a family history of osteoporosis and/or fracture on the mother’s side of the family can be early warning signs for some patients to be more proactive in how they exercise and eat. Understand the relationship between [url:923,type=|node|,content=|genetics and osteoporosis|].

Test Your Bone Mineral Density

At age 30, most adults reach their peak bone mass, which refers to the body’s natural remodeling process during which more new bone is laid down than old bone is removed. After peak bone mass is reached, more bone is removed than replaced, making the bones more susceptible to osteoporosis.

A bone density test often involves the use of a quick and painless, dual energy X-ray absorption (DEXA) scan that can determine if a person has normal bone density, low bone mass, osteopenia (a precursor to osteoporosis) or osteoporosis. BMD testing is already recommended every 1-2 years for all women over 65, and for postmenopausal women under 65 and other patients with multiple osteoporosis risk factors.

Learn more about [url:935,type=|node|,content=|bone density testing|], including its benefits, applications and costs.

Get Yourself Some Calcium

Calcium not only ensures bone strength but helps the heart, blood, muscles and nerves. When the body does not get enough calcium, it often resorts to the bones, stripping them of calcium and making them weaker.

A diet that focuses on more calcium intake – possibly through everyday foods like milk, yogurt, cheese, dark green vegetables, grains, beans, and some fish can go a long way towards ensuring bone strength and minimizing osteoporosis.

Now how much calcium is recommended for adults? See these [url:936,type=|node|,content=|calcium intake recommendations|].

“D” Up – Meet Vitamin-D Requirements

Like calcium, vitamin D levels are often insufficient, despite playing a major role in the prevention of osteoporosis. Instead of being excreted, calcium is absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract and transferred from the kidneys to the bones (resorption) in large part due to [url:1297,type=|node|,content=|vitamin D|].

Knowing if you have a vitamin D deficiency and ensuring a diet that is rich in vitamin D – from fatty fish, liver, supplements or fortified foods like milk, orange juice and cereals – is another integral part of any plan for avoiding osteoporosis.

Make Other Changes to Your Diet

Avoid diets that are high in protein and/or sodium, both of which can increase the loss of calcium. Rather, start incorporating more leafy green vegetables, fruits, beans, peas, fish and other [url:1898,type=|node|,content=|miscellaneous foods|] into your three daily meals.

Furthermore, limit how much cola/soda you drink, as studies have linked an increased likelihood of osteoporosis to drinking too much of these products. Substitute milk, juice or water as often as possible.

Put Your Weight into Exercising

Weight-bearing exercises that are performed on the feet and work the bones and muscles against gravity can help build bone mass and reduce the likelihood of osteoporosis-related fractures in high-risk areas like the spine, wrists and hips.

Regularly incorporating [url:940,type=|node|,content=|weight-bearing activities|] like jogging, walking, climbing the stairs, dancing, hiking and playing volleyball or tennis for 20-30 minutes, 3-4 times a week can not only be good for the bones but your overall physical and mental health.

Avoid Excessive Alcohol Use

While it isn’t exactly understood how alcohol affects bone, studies have shown that people who consume more than 3 ounces of alcohol (roughly 6 drinks) each day increase the likelihood of having more bone loss than those people with minimal alcohol intake.

Quit Smoking

In a similar light, smoking is another dangerous activity that can increase the risk of osteoporosis, specifically by reducing blood flow to the bones, slowing the production of bone-forming cells and impairing calcium absorption.

When considering that people who smoke are more likely to drink than nonsmokers and that people who drink are more likely to smoke than nondrinkers, it’s easy to see the relationship between [url:941,type=|node|,content=|smoking, drinking and osteoporosis|].

Explore Osteoporosis-Fighting Medications with a Doctor

A variety of medications that vary by class, delivery mechanism and frequency exist not only to treat patients with osteoporosis but to prevent people with high risk factors from getting this disease. Fosamax, Boniva and Actonel are just a few examples of oral [url:922,type=|node|,content=|osteoporosis medications|].

For other patients, [url:6671,type=|node|,content=|osteoporosis injections|] that are taken once-a-day, once-a-week or once-a-year (such as Reclast®) may be more preferable for preventing spine fractures and hip fractures.

Considering that osteoporosis can lead to serious illnesses, spinal deformity, and even death in some cases, the need for such everyday awareness of this disease and its prevention should not be discounted, as made clear by the efforts of World Osteoporosis Day.

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Thoracic Spinal Stenosis Video

mlepore — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 17:42:28 +0000

Not as common as lumbar stenosis in the lower back or cervical stenosis in the neck, thoracic spinal stenosis is a rare degenerative condition in which the spinal canal in the upper/middle back is narrowed. Learn more about this type of spinal stenosis, including its symptoms, causes and treatment options, in the following thoracic spinal stenosis video.

Cervical Spinal Stenosis Video

mlepore — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 17:42:23 +0000

Cervical stenosis refers to when the spinal cord or spinal nerves in the neck are compressed. If there is spinal cord dysfunction with this type of spinal stenosis, symptoms can include pain, weakness and numbness in the shoulders, arms, hands, legs and feet, troubles with coordination and balance, and other difficulties as described in the following cervical spinal stenosis video.

Cervical Herniated Disc Video

mlepore — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 17:30:53 +0000

A cervical herniated disc occurs when the soft, inner core of a disc extrudes through its outer core, presses on or "pinches" a cervical nerve, and causes pain to radiate along the nerve pathway and into the arm, as explained in this cervical herniated disc video.

10 Ways to Indulge Your Spine on World Spine Day

cmaynard — Thu, 15 Oct 2009 15:01:06 +0000

October 16, 2009
by: Sylvia Marten

A global, multi-disciplined initiative designated by the International Bone and Joint Decade, World Spine Day stresses awareness of musculoskeletal conditions like back pain and ensuring a healthier spine. For our part in this celebration, Spine-health is proud to provide patients with the following tips on how they can keep their spine healthy and happy, starting today.

Make Exercise a Daily Ritual

Exercising the stomach and back muscles that help support the spine is a major point of emphasis on World Spine Day; with that said, it often seems counterintuitive to patients with back pain to exercise out of fear that such activities will exacerbate pain.

However, the spine was built for movement, and simple exercise programs that focus on stretching and strengthening the back, hamstrings and abdominals can go a long way towards distributing nutrients into the spinal discs and soft tissues, accelerating the healing process, and keeping the discs, muscles, ligaments and joints healthy.

For more information, visit our [url:157,type=|term|,content=|Exercise Health Center|].

Maintain Good Posture while Sitting

The spine is naturally built to curve, but slouching in a chair for eight hours a day at work can lead to muscle tension and [url:896,type=|node|,content=|lower back pain|] and [url:887,type=|node|,content=|leg pain|] ([url:151,type=|term|,content=|sciatica|]).

As the discs in the [url:1614,type=|term|,content=|lumbar spine|] (lower back) are already loaded three times more while sitting than standing, why make things even more difficult? Be sure to have an ergonomically-friendly office chair setup and to get up and stretch every 30 minutes or so.

For more information on preventing bad posture from becoming a habit and incorporating the right posture while not only sitting but walking, driving, standing and lifting, see these [url:1099,type=|node|,content=|Guidelines to Improve Posture|].

Choose and Use Shoes Wisely

The benefits of walking for the spine are plentiful, including strengthening the muscles that keep the body upright, nourishing spinal structures with necessary nutrients, improving flexibility and strengthening the bones.

While walking, it’s important to have a flexible, comfortable pair of shoes that also serves as a stable base for the spine to stay in alignment. Here are some [url:1194,type=|node|,content=|guidelines for buying walking shoes|].

Be a Warm Friend

Given the many responsibilities of the spine, it is quite natural for the neck and/or back to feel sore at the end of the day. Applying heat therapy is a great way not only to soothe such spinal discomfort but to kick back and relax prior to going to sleep.

Heat can be applied via heating pads, wraps, warm gel packs, hot water bottles or a bath/shower, and offers many benefits when done safely and correctly. Learn [url:1663,type=|node|,content=|how to apply heat therapy|].

Sleep on a Supportive Mattress and Pillow

In ideal circumstances, nearly a 1/3 of the day is spent sleeping, which also serves as a time for the spine to rest after a hard day’s work. Still, an insufficient mattress can make rest a stressful time on the spine, and lead to some patients complaining of a stiff neck or back ache in the morning.

While sleep comfort is a matter of personal preference, taking into consideration a mattress that allows for correct support and sleeping positions can go a long way towards avoiding pain in the back and neck ([url:1113,type=|term|,content=|cervical spine|]).

For patients with lower back pain or neck pain, see [url:1315,type=|node|,content=|Choosing the Best Mattress|] and [url:1329,type=|node|,content=|Pillow Support and Comfort|].

Try It: A Balanced Diet and Nutrition

Considering that the bones, muscles and other structures in the spine help support the body and perform many other functions, it’s pretty clear just how important eating the right types of meals three times a day is to maintaining good health.

Focusing on foods that are high in calcium (for bone strength and mass) and other nutrients and vitamins can help prevent osteoporosis, osteoarthritis and other conditions in the future. Similarly, maintaining a proper weight can reduce pressure on the spine and minimize back pain.

For more information, visit our health center on [url:160,type=|term|,content=|Nutrition, Diet and Weight Loss|].
Take a Dip in a Pool

Water therapy offers several advantages for the spine that are not attainable via land-based exercise and physical therapy programs.

Buoyancy provides both mild resistance and support, thus reducing the risk of injury and allowing neck pain patients to perform strengthening movements that are painless in the water as opposed to painful in other situations. Additionally, cold water therapy can be used to soothe joint inflammation, while hot water can stimulate circulation for stiff muscles and healing for minor muscle sprains or strains.

For more information, get immersed in the following [url:1284,type=|node|,content=|Water Therapy Exercise Program|].

Literally Treat Yourself to a Massage

A massage is more than a way to break free from daily stress and is now a recognized form of treatment for patients with back pain and neck pain.

Massages offer several benefits, including improving blood circulation for the recovery of sore muscles, restoring spinal range of motion, helping with insomnia, and upping endorphins, the body’s natural chemicals that make patients feel good.

Read on at [url:1287,type=|node|,content=|Massage Therapy for Lower Back Pain|].

Put Out Those Cigarettes

Certainly easier said than done, quitting smoking reduces the likelihood of lower back pain, which is reportedly 300 percent more likely in smokers than non-smokers.

According to one study, smoking leads to degenerative spinal disorders and back pain as a result of damaging the vascular structures of spinal discs and joints.

See why quitting smoking is a must-do for the spine in the following video: [url:6679,type=|node|,content=|Stop Smoking!|]

Lift Up Your Spine

Improperly lifting heavy items can put the lower back muscles in abnormal positions that can produce painful muscle strains, and even cause the spinal joints to lock and the spinal discs to rupture.

Correct lifting is more than involving the knees, and should incorporate keeping the chest forward and the weight close to the body, and leading with the hips rather than the shoulders.

Do you practice the [url:1132,type=|node|,content=|right lifting techniques|]?

With all these suggestions in mind, what better day than today to start getting active and making these changes!

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Chiropractic Diagnosis of Low Back Pain

cmaynard — Tue, 06 Oct 2009 20:50:54 +0000

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. These categories of chiropractic diagnosis include:

Potentially serious: tumor, infection, fracture, major neurological problem (cauda equina), local open wound or burn, prolonged bleeding (hemophilia), artificial joint implant problems, pacemaker problems, joint infection
read more

Whether or Not Weather Prompts Chronic Pain

cmaynard — Thu, 01 Oct 2009 17:21:05 +0000

October 2, 2009
by: Sylvia Marten

As Chicago (the home base of Spine-health) deals with some chilly weather this week, and other cities also come to terms with the end of summer, an old, unanswered question comes to mind:

Do changes in the weather bring on changes in [url:137,type=|term|,content=|chronic pain|]?

A quick run through the Spine-health Pain Forums finds patients commenting on how the onset of fall has already led to increased pain:

One member starts a very similar discussion after noticing [url:26085,type=|node|,content=|seasonal changes and increased pain levels|]
Another member describes how [url:26516,type=|node|,content=|hot to cold weather changes are agony|]
This member jokes about [url:25621,type=|node|,content=|using WD-40 on her joints and spine|] with the fall changes.

While chronic pain sufferers are quick to note how weather changes affect their symptoms, medical professionals are not so certain about the relationship.

Medical View of Chronic Pain and Weather

Surprisingly, there is scant scientific research and evidence linking seasonal changes to pain. Of course, this development goes against the grain of theories that suggest drops in barometric pressure lead to increased joint inflammation or even propose that patients with chronic joint pain can predict changes in the weather (i.e. temperature drops, rain, etc.) based on how their joints are feeling.

While many medical professionals may be hesitant to confirm such statements as truths, what is generally agreed upon is that patients do see their doctors about symptoms related to weather changes.

For example:

Modulating factors like cold, damp weather, "stress", and overexertion have been noted by patients whose symptoms of [url:147,type=|term|,content=|fibromyalgia|] (generalized pain, stiffness, fatigue, non-restorative sleep) recently worsened
Patients with [url:136,type=|term|,content=|osteoarthritis|] have noted swelling and warmth in one or more joints particularly during weather changes that may be related to cooling of the air and drops in barometric pressure.

Even if the scientific relationship between the weather and chronic pain is not fully understood, what is known is that patients may try different non-surgical treatments to alleviate their symptoms.

Counterbalancing the Cold with Some Heat

Known for decreasing stiffness, increasing blood circulation and promoting the healing process, [url:167,type=|term|,content=|heat therapy|] may be a potential ally for patients with chronic pain during the fall and winter.

For patients whose joints may feel painful, sore or stiff with the onset of recent cold weather, consider these suggestions:

Apply a hot pack, warm towel or heating pad to the painful area. Simply doing this for 20 minutes at a time may be enough for temporary pain relief.
Utilize heat wraps. Available in most grocery stores/pharmacies, heat wraps can provide warmth for joint-related back pain and other symptoms for up to 8 hours at a time.
Try water therapy. Some patients may experience pain relief by swimming in an indoor, heated pool a few times per week, or utilizing a whirlpool, perhaps at a local community center or health club. Taking a hot shower may be an alternative solution for other patients.
Stay active rather than hibernating. A lot of people limit their activities in the winter because of the cold weather. Such immobility is not good for the spine and joints. Rather, maintaining a regular exercise program promotes a healthy spine.

While the new season may bring added stress to some chronic pain sufferers, keeping these tips in mind and having a positive outlook (after all, the fall does bring wonderful scenery and football) may help patients minimize pain.

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Spinal Cord Compression and Dysfunction from Cervical Stenosis

cmaynard — Tue, 29 Sep 2009 19:12:18 +0000

Over time, degenerative changes to the cervical vertebrae, discs and joints may have significant effects on the spinal cord, which runs from the brain through the cervical spine and thoracic spine before branching off to other parts of the body.

Cervical Symptoms from a Herniated Cervical Disc

cmaynard — Tue, 29 Sep 2009 18:46:29 +0000

A herniated cervical disc occurs when a nerve root is irritated and/or pinched as a result of a cervical disc’s inner core extruding through the outer core and coming in contact with the nerve root. Depending on the location of the cervical disc herniation and which cervical nerve is affected (most often C6, C7; sometimes C5, C8), various cervical symptoms may occur.

For example, when the following cervical nerve is compressed as a result of a herniated disc, patient symptoms may include:

Cervical Nerves

cmaynard — Tue, 29 Sep 2009 17:54:33 +0000

In addition to the seven cervical vertebrae, cervical anatomy features eight cervical nerves (C1-C8) that branch off of the spinal cord and control different types of bodily and sensory activities.

Each cervical nerve is named based on the lower cervical vertebra that it runs between. As an example, the nerve root that runs between the second cervical vertebra and the third cervical vertebra in the neck is described as the C3 nerve.

Cervical Discs

cmaynard — Tue, 29 Sep 2009 17:29:49 +0000

There are six cervical discs and 23 total discs in the entire spinal column. Each cervical disc rests between the cervical vertebrae, acts as a shock absorber in the cervical spine and allows the neck to handle much stress.

Composed of collagen and ligaments, the cervical discs also hold the cervical vertebrae together and allow for flexibility and different movements of the neck.

Cervical Pain from Degeneration and Injury

cmaynard — Tue, 29 Sep 2009 16:56:34 +0000

If a cervical vertebra is fractured by trauma, such as in a car accident, a fall, a diving accident that jars the head, or any other significant cervical injury, the spinal cord can be damaged, possibly resulting in not only cervical pain but different types of impaired functioning depending on which cervical vertebra has been injured.

For example, a cervical injury to:

Cervical Vertebrae

cmaynard — Tue, 29 Sep 2009 16:35:45 +0000

The cervical spine is comprised of seven vertebrae – C1, C2, C3, C4, C5, C6, C7 (often noted as C1-C7) – that begin at the base of the skull and extend down to the thoracic spine. The cervical vertebrae are composed of cylindrical bones (vertebral bodies) that lie in front of the spinal cord, and work with the muscles, joints, ligaments and tendons to provide support, structure and stabilization to the neck.

Cervical Spine Anatomy and Neck Pain

cmaynard — Tue, 29 Sep 2009 15:44:10 +0000

Neck anatomy is a well-engineered structure of bones, nerves, muscles, ligaments and tendons. The cervical spine (neck) is delicate – housing the spinal cord that sends messages from the brain to control all aspects of the body – while also remarkably flexible, allowing movement in all directions, and strong.

Feeling and Looking Older Because of Chronic Pain

cmaynard — Wed, 23 Sep 2009 13:42:30 +0000

September 23, 2009
by: Sylvia Marten

The study in the September issue of the Journal of the American Geriatric Society noted that chronic pain patients (aged 50-59) looked similar to healthy patients who were two to three decades older. Furthermore, the study found that the chronic pain sufferers also functioned as if they were much older, specifically in terms of four types of physical activities:

Walking/jogging
Climbing stairs
Using the upper extremities
Performing everyday activities like bathing, dressing and eating.

Chronic Pain Study: Methodology and Other Findings

Researchers at the University of California in San Francisco analyzed data from slightly more than 18,500 participants (aged 50 and older) who took part in the 2004 Health and Retirement Study, which examined functioning across the aforementioned physical activities.

Notable findings included the following:

24 percent of patients had pain across all four physical abilities, with higher functional limitations present in those patients than in painless subjects.
Only 9 percent of patients (aged 50-59) who suffered from chronic pain were able to jog a mile, in comparison to 37 percent of patients in the same age group without any pain.
50 percent of chronic pain sufferers (aged 50-59) were able to walk a few blocks without difficulty; however, 91 percent of same-aged subjects without any pain walked a few blocks without complications (Sources: Journal of the American Geriatric Society, UPI).

Providing some statistical evidence to the devastating effects of chronic pain, this study confirms what many chronic sufferers already feel on a daily basis.

Chronic Back Pain Sufferers Relate to Study Findings

A quick troll through our Pain Forums finds many personal accounts of younger patients explaining how their chronic pain makes them feel much older.

One 28-year-old, [url:21642,type=|node|,content=|new member with chronic back pain|] over the last five years feels as if she’s 82!
A 24-year-old [url:13930,type=|node|,content=|member with a cervical herniated disc|] complains of feeling 40 years older.
In response to the previous member, a chronic pain sufferer who is roughly 50 years old details looking older than his or her mother, who is 20 years older; thus supporting the study’s findings.

With chronic back pain and neck pain exerting such physical and mental tolls, it is important for patients to stay active through exercise and physical therapy (in addition to other pain management techniques) to prevent functional problems and preserve their abilities to perform certain physical activities as they age.

For more information on dealing with chronic pain that lasts more than three to six months, see our Health Center on [url:137,type=|term|,content=|chronic pain|].

More Information:

[url:2204,type=|node|]
[url:2000,type=|node|]
[url:2205,type=|node|]
[url:1081,type=|node|]
[url:2004,type=|node|]
[url:1080,type=|node|]

Spine-health Wins Third Straight Medical Standard of Excellence WebAward

cmaynard — Mon, 21 Sep 2009 16:27:32 +0000

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CHICAGO, IL. September 22, 2009 – Make it a three-peat for Spine-health.com, the leading health information Web site for consumers with back pain, neck pain and other chronic pain, following its Medical Standard of Excellence Award from the Web Marketing Association in the 2009 WebAwards Competition.

Yoga as a Treatment for Back Pain and Neck Pain

cmaynard — Thu, 17 Sep 2009 14:36:48 +0000

September 17, 2009
by: Sylvia Marten

A study in the September issue of Spine indicates the benefits of [url:162,type=|term|,content=|yoga|] as a treatment for back pain and confirms the importance of staying active when rehabilitating the spine and seeking pain relief, a point that may initially seem counterintuitive to patients but should not be lost.

In the study, 90 back pain sufferers (aged 23 to 66) were split into two groups, with one group performing 90-minutes of Iyengar yoga twice a week for six months and the other maintaining their regular treatment over that time period.

At both the third and six months, the yoga participants noted significant improvements in both pain and functioning, and were also less likely to be depressed. Pain levels were measured via questionnaires assessing the amount of pain medications being taken, difficulties performing certain tasks, and other metrics.

Previous studies have already noted how extensive yoga programs have resulted in improvements in strength, flexibility and endurance for patients with [url:145,type=|term|,content=|back pain|] and [url:149,type=|term|,content=|neck pain|], and now this latest research seemingly adds more credence to the effectiveness of yoga and its emphasis on relaxation, flexibility and core strengthening as a treatment for these symptoms.

Sources: HealthDay News; Spine

Types of Yoga for Chronic Pain

A combination of physical exercises, breathing exercises and meditation, yoga may appeal to people as a means to stay fit and relax, but it also has practical applications for treating chronic back pain and neck pain from a herniated disc, arthritis and other conditions.

Several [url:1348,type=|node|,content=|types of yoga|] exist, with their applications often beneficial to certain types of patients. The following are just some examples of the different types of yoga:

Iyengar yoga. Used in the aforementioned study, Iyengar yoga stresses proper alignment and precise movements yet incorporates modifications that often benefit back pain and neck pain patients whose mobility may be limited as a result of their symptoms.
Ashtanga yoga. Emphasizing powerful flowing movements like push-ups and lunges, Ashtanga yoga is appropriately described as “power yoga” and often appeals to patients who have previously rehabilitated from a back injury.
Bikram yoga. Performed in a hot room with the goal of stretching the tissues and increasing flexibility, Bikram yoga (also known as “hot yoga”) should not be performed by patients with cardiovascular disease.
Viniyoga. Linking breathing and movement through flowing exercises, Viniyoga is easily adaptable for each person, making it a good option for many types of back pain and neck pain patients.

While the principles of yoga may still be foreign to many people, patients should keep an open mind when exploring treatment options. While exercise may prompt initial worries of exacerbating pain, such activities can often have wonderful therapeutic effects, not only physically but spiritually (as emphasized in yoga).

Exercise Treatments for Back Pain and Neck Pain

Even if a patient does not do yoga, they may participate in a program of neck or [url:1183,type=|node|,content=|back exercises|] that incorporates stretching, strengthening and low-impact aerobic exercises.

For more information, check out the following resources:

[url:1349,type=|node|,content=|Yoga for Back Problems|]
[url:1345,type=|node|,content=|Tai Chi for Posture and Back Pain|]
[url:1334,type=|node|,content=|Pilates Exercise System to Promote Back Health|]
[url:1723,type=|node|,content=|Physical Therapy Benefits for Back Pain|]
[url:1704,type=|node|,content=|Core Body Strength Exercises|]
[url:1730,type=|node|,content=|Rehabilitation and Exercise for a Healthy Back|].

10 Lesser-Known Tips for Easing Neck Pain

cmaynard — Thu, 10 Sep 2009 15:42:03 +0000

September 10, 2009
by: Sylvia Marten

When common non-surgical treatments (e.g. NSAIDs, chiropractic care, neck exercises) or even surgery haven’t provided effective relief of [url:149,type=|term|,content=|neck pain|], patients often get creative and identify simple yet unique techniques they do on their own.

With the help of our dedicated forum community of neck pain sufferers, Spine-health has compiled some suggestions that have worked for these people, who certainly know what it’s like to deal with neck pain on a daily basis.

Take a Swim

Getting the water level up to the neck and simply moving around
Squatting until the water reaches the chin, and then moving back and forth and to the right and to the left.

If patients do not own a pool or can’t get to a community pool in the summers or an indoor pool in the winters, taking a bath every night is a popular alternative for other neck pain sufferers.

Utilize a Water Pillow

Keeping on this “water” theme, some patients note the rejuvenating effects of water pillows that allow patients to dictate the firmness of their pillow. Specifically, more water equals a firmer pillow; less water provides a softer pillow.

Various water pillow products are available on the market and may be worth considering for patients who have tried more traditional neck pillows and braces to no avail.

Consider Melatonin Sleeping Aids

Even the greatest pillow may have no chance against neck pain that interferes with sleeping. Various supplements that stimulate the hormone Melatonin (which is highest prior to bedtime) have been used by forum members and allowed them to at least get some much-needed quality restorative sleep.

Of course, when considering supplements, it’s important to do your own research and speak with a trusted medical professional about the benefits/risks involved.

Focus on Magnesium Intake

As many cases of neck pain are the result of muscle strains or sprains, speaking with a nutritionist about magnesium (an essential mineral that helps contract and relax muscles) may be worth learning more about.

Magnesium is found in certain fruits, vegetables, nuts, peas, beans, soy products and whole grains, and is also available in supplemental formats. Some forum members note how taking magnesium helps with muscle tightness in the neck.

Learn More about Acupuncture

Involving the insertion of thin needles into the skin, [url:1358,type=|node|,content=|acupuncture|] has been described as providing varying degrees of neck pain relief for forum members, with some people swearing by its effectiveness, others noting success about half of the time, and some other patients noting no relief.

One forum member raised the interesting point that the efficacy of acupuncture and deep tissue massage often depends on the skills of the practitioner, making it important for patients to research these treatment methods and really understand how to identify a skilled professional.

Get a Remedial Massage

Some forum members champion this type of massage for neck pain relief. But what’s the difference between a regular [url:1287,type=|node|,content=|massage|] and a remedial massage?

During a remedial massage, oil is applied to and massaged into the skin, with the purpose of penetrating the muscles and joints, removing toxins in the muscles, and ultimately relaxing the muscles and improving joint mobility.

Relax via Holistic Treatments

Stress can exacerbate neck pain; thus, holistic treatments like aromatherapy (during which essential oils are used for relaxation and mood improvement), meditative music, candlelight, etc. may be incorporated to soothe the patient and clear the mind of neck pain.

One chronic neck pain sufferer has experienced so much pain relief from holistic treatments that he now has made such therapy a nightly ritual.

Avoid Situations that Trigger Neck Pain

Other forum members note how limiting instances that often spur and exacerbate neck pain (like sitting at a computer for long periods of time, [url:1094,type=|node|,content=|driving|], heavy lifting, other activities that require heavy use of the arms) have helped achieve relief.

Others have noted modifying such activities, like bringing the steering wheel as low as possible and putting a towel behind their neck when driving, as preventative measures for neck pain.

Strategically Place Ice on Certain Areas

Neck pain may also be joined by nagging headaches and numbness and tingling in the back of the head, neck, shoulders and hands. Some forum members suggest putting [url:1664,type=|node|,content=|ice|] on different areas of the body (between the thumb and index finger, on the bone 1.5-2 inches behind the ear, on the indent between the middle of the eyebrow) to help achieve relief from such symptoms.

One creative forum member noted using a headband to secure the ice in these different spots and on the temple. And when his neck pain got really intense, he suggested slowly moving to and lying on the floor with a towel behind the neck.

Liquefy Medications

In some instances after [url:1563,type=|node|,content=|neck surgery|], swallowing difficulties may ensue. To compensate, some patients may ask their doctors for liquid versions of their medications or take matters in their own hands, crush their medications and stir in apple sauce, which one forum member did to seek relief.

Of course, sharing experiences with other neck pain sufferers may help spark other ideas for achieving desired pain relief and at least provide comfort that there are people out there who really do care. Consider joining the Spine-health Neck Pain Forum Community to share and gain additional tips.

These unconventional tips for relieving neck pain have worked for others. The hope is that some of them may work for you too, or help spur new ideas that will. Please leave a comment to let us know.

Other Resources

[url:6018,type=|node|,content=|Neck Pain Videos|]
[url:913,type=|node|,content=|Types of Neck Pain|]
[url:914,type=|node|,content=|Neck Pain Symptoms, Causes and Diagnosis|]
[url:163,type=|term|,content=|Alternative Care|]
[url:857,type=|node|,content=|Cervical Herniated Disc Symptoms and Treatment|]
[url:685,type=|node|,content=|Cervical Degenerative Disc Disease|]