Spinal Decompression

Whiplash Injury - A Pain In The Neck

2009-03-29T13:00:00.000-07:00

Whiplash is an injury to the neck caused by a sudden movement back, forward or sideways of the head and neck. Depending upon the severity, it is also called a neck sprain or strain, cervical sprain or strain. The injury often involves the muscles, discs, tendons, and nerves.

Causes

Most whiplash injuries are caused by a car accident, often by being struck from behind.
Shaken Baby Syndrome
Falls from a horse or a bicycle
Headbanging
Trauma from being hit, kicked or shaken
Accidents, such as from riding a snowboard or a skiing accident
Injury from riding a roller coaster or an amusement park ride that hyper-extends the neck or causes it to be snapped suddenly
Extreme, sudden straining to lift or pull a very heavy object

Muscle and Ligament Symptoms

Tightness or spasms of the muscles of the neck or upper back
Pain with movement of neck
Decreased mobility and stiffness
Burning and tingling in neck and shoulders, upper back
Pain in shoulder
Pain in upper back or between shoulder blades
Pain in one arm
Low back pain
Pain in jaw or face
Pain in the face, the entire head, or behind the eyes
Difficulty swallowing and chewing plus hoarseness, which can be symptoms of injury to the esophagus or larynx

Neurological Symptoms

These symptoms may be the result of injury to the soft tissue in the neck or a mild brain injury or concussion.

Vision problems, blurred vision
Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
Poor concentration, forgetfulness
Feeling of disorientation
Sensitivity to sound and light
Irritability
Depression
Sleeplessness
Fatigue
Headache
Dizziness (vertigo)
Feeling of pins and needles in arms, possibly legs

Diagnosing A Whiplash Injury

History and Physical must be done
X-rays to rule out fracture or dislocation
CT Scan (Computerized Axial Tomography) shows detailed images of neck
MRI ( Magnetic Resonance Imaging) produces detailed images

Treatment

Treatment depends upon the severity of symptoms.

Ice may be applied to neck for 24 hours after injury.
NSAID Non-steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs) may reduce pain and muscle inflammation.
Muscle Relaxants may be prescribed.
Physical therapy may be recommended.
Mild range of motion exercises may be prescribed with proper posture methods to relieve excessive strain on neck.
Cold and heat treatments may bring some relief.
Massage therapy promotes healing and relieves pain.
Chiropractic therapy may be recommended. Spinal manipulation appears to be the most effective within the first 6 weeks following the injury.
Soft collars are advised only for the first 2 or 3 days when pain and inflammation re the worst. Prolonged use has been shown to delay recovery from whiplash. In some cases, intermittent use is helpful.
A fracture or dislocation requires the wearing of a collar.

Prognosis

Mild whip lash injuries may heal within 2 to 3 weeks.
Moderate injuries require 2 to 3 months.
Severe whiplash may take months to heal and symptoms, such as headache and neck pain, may linger for 6 months or longer.
Chronic symptoms may last for years and degenerative changes in the disc and vertebrae may develop.

A whiplash injury truly can become a ‘pain in the neck’ for sufferers of its long term effects.

Brought to you by Boca Raton Spinal Decompression.

Treatment Of Sacroiliitis

2009-03-29T12:52:00.000-07:00

Sacroiliitis is a disorder that is far more complex than back pai n and it is important to seek medical attention early if you develop the symptoms. The condition is complicated with a variety of causes; it may be secondary to an injury or pregnancy but this is not a disorder to gamble with.
Delay may lead to joint degeneration or the pain may be a symptom of a larger, inflammatory arthritic condition known as ankylosing spondylitis. This is one of the many forms of inflammatory arthritis, the most common of which is rheumatoid arthritis. Complications of ankylosing spondylitis can be quite serious and include:

• Spine Deformities
• Difficulty Breathing
• Lung Infections
• Heart Problems.

Symptoms OF Sacroiliitis

• Pain and stiffness in lower back, thighs, buttocks
• Pain becomes worse with walking, due to the motion of the hips.
• Psoriasis, an inflammatory skin condition, may occur with a type of arthritis and sacroiliitis.
• Pain radiating down leg, often mimicking sciatica
• Limp
• Decreased range of motion
• Elevated temperature
• Bloody diarrhea occurs with Reiter’s Syndrome, which causes painful urination, joint pain, sacroiliac joint pain, and eye inflammation, and accompanies sacroiliitis.
• Eye inflammation in one or both eyes, a symptom of Reiter’s Syndrome and evident with sacroiliitis.

Diagnosis

• History and Physical
• When examined, pain localized around sacroiliac joints, can be detected.
• Laboratory studies, including blood cultures
• X-rays of sacroiliac joints
• MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) scan of sacroiliac joints
• Culture of fluid from affected sacroiliac joint

It is important that the doctor be informed if there is a history of IV Drug use and whether any antibiotics have been taken recently. Recent antibiotic use can delay the proper diagnosis and identification of the infectious organism if a blood culture is done.

Treatment

The underlying cause and symptoms are considered when implementing a treatment plan.
• NSAIDs (Non-Steroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs) such as naproxyn and ibuprophen reduce inflammation and pain.
• Cortiosteroid Drugs, such as prednisone and medrol, reduce inflammation and slow down joint deterioration.
• DMARDs (Disease Modifying Anti-rheumatic Drugs), such as Azulfidine and methotrexate, help limit joint damage.
• Antibiotics, if an underlying infection is determined by a blood culture or culture of fluid from infected sacroiliac joints. Drug must be specific for that infectious organism.
• Rest to relieve strain on sacroiliac joints.
• Tumor necrosis factor inhibitor medications, such as Enbrel, Humira, Remicade, can block a cell protein that acts as an inflammatory agent. This helps reduce pain and stiffness. These medications are quite expensive and may not be prescribed unless other medications are not effective.
• Physical therapy will be started after the painful, acute phase is under control.
o Range of motion exercises and stretching exercises to improve muscle strength and joint flexibility.
• Decrease or eliminate smoking because nicotine decreases the blood flow to the affected areas and makes it more difficult for the body to fight the disease.

These medications can effectively relieve the painful symptoms of sacroiliitis but they have many side-effects. They may interact with medications you are already taking so it is important that you understand all their side-effects and how to use them appropriately. Some of these drugs increase the risk of bleeding, the risk of a cardio-vascular event or damage to your kidneys, liver or gastrointestinal tract. Complete patient education is vital to the management of sacroiliitis and the effective relief of its symptoms.

Brought to you by Deerfield Beach Spinal Decompression

The Car Accident And Whip Lash Injury

2009-03-29T12:35:00.000-07:00

Whiplash, a painful neck injury, is usually the result of a car accident but, at one time, it was known as ‘railway spine’, because of injuries received in train accidents. Around 1928, the term, ‘whiplash injury’, was first used. It is a general term for damage to both the bone structure as well as the muscle and soft tissue of the neck. Whiplash associated disorder is a broader term used to describe a more severe, chronic condition.

Anyone who has ever had a whiplash knows the pain that comes with it. For a while, if a person was involved in a car accident and then claimed symptoms of a whiplash injury, he was often regarded with suspicion. Some even went so far as to suggest that complainers were seeking generous insurance settlements. There were sneers that complainants were not suffering from a real injury but were just complaining for monetary gain.

In the past, if there were no broken bones, an actual injury was hard to document as soft tissue injuries did not show up on an x-ray. As a result, insurance companies would deny all coverage. When a patient was really suffering, this just added insult to injury. It didn’t help that their misery was often scoffed at. It was fakery and the patient was a liar, a fraud, or, at the very least, a raving hypochondriac. Some people, who had genuine whiplash injuries and obvious symptoms from car accidents, actually refused to seek medical treatment. They dreaded the raised eyebrows and skepticism that often greeted the symptoms of whiplash. Some said they would rather deal with their pain than the suspicious attitude that was encountered in hospital emergency rooms.

Clinical studies were eventually undertaken to investigate the whiplash issue. The conclusions were, that while there would always be the unscrupulous few who were trying to exploit an insurance company, most claims were legitimate and a whiplash caused pain and some long term damage. It was vindication for the injured; a whiplash was a real injury with real symptoms.

Consider How It Happens

Most whiplash injuries occur as a result of a riding in a car which collides with another vehicle or is hit from behind. The head is suddenly jerked forward and then back, stretching the ligaments and muscles, which can be torn. In a rear end collision, the victim’s car is pushed forward and then, if he has his foot on the brake or his car slams into the one in front of him, there’s another sudden jolt, snapping his body forward while his head snaps back, stretching and damaging the muscles and cervical spine a second time. If the victim is not wearing a seatbelt, he may hit the steering wheel with force or strike the windshield. The neck is most vulnerable to injury in this type of accident but the muscles of the upper back may also be damaged. Studies show that a whiplash injury can be the result of an accident, even at a speed of 15 mph.

Injuries

The cervical discs, the soft cushion between each vertebrae can bulge, tear or rupture.
The cervical vertebrae can be popped and forced out of position
The spinal cord and nerve roots can be stretched and irritated.
The muscles and ligaments that support the neck can be stretched or torn.
Inflammation of soft tissues develops as a result of nerve root compression
Muscles of the upper back can be over-stretched.

Car accidents are the most common cause of whip lash injuries but a sports injury, such as a skiing accident, can also cause these painful symptoms.

Brought to you by Pembroke Pines Spinal Decompression

Study Shows Back Injury Secondary To Muscle Fatigue

2009-03-29T12:29:00.000-07:00

A recent study funded by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health shows the relationship between muscle fatigue from repetitive lifting and back injury. It was conducted by an Ohio State industrial systems engineer and an MD who is studying biomechanics. The study which recently appeared in Clinical Biomechanics is the first to examine muscle oxygenation throughout the workday.

The Study
Ten people participated in the study; six had at least one year’s experience in a job that requires lifting, such as in stocking shelves. Four were considered novice lifters. Each person wore a Lumbar Motion Detector, a device that was designed to measure the spine’s movement. They wore oximeters, a gauge that measures the oxygen level of the muscles – just like the pulse oximeter, a device that clips onto a finger, measures oxygen level of the blood.

Activity
Study participants lifted a box from a waist high stand and set it on a chest-high conveyor belt. The box traveled on a conveyor belt to the next participant, who would lift the box and set on another conveyor belt. The boxes weighed 2 pounds, 11 pounds, and 26 pounds. Participants worked 8 hours with a half-hour lunch break and two 15 minute breaks.

Researchers said that the 26 pound box weighed less than half as much as loads that some workers are routinely required to lift in industry. The researchers studied the oxygen levels in the muscles. After 2 hours of lifting, the oxygen level gradually increased until it reached 11% above the resting level. During hours 2 to 4, it rose to 13%. During the lunch break, the oxygen level returned to the resting level but immediately rose to 11 % with lifting during hours 4 to 6. During the last 2 hours of the work day, the oxygenation level rose to 16%, the highest level of the day. This oxygen level indicates how hard the muscles were working and whether they were becoming fatigued. Citing his study, Professor Marras of Ohio State, says, “ Because the oxygen demand at the end of the day was so much higher, that’s when we’d expect people to get hurt on the job.” As muscles fatigue and begin to hurt, workers tense up and try to lift with other muscles that are not as painful.

Conclusion
Tense muscles constrict blood vessels, preventing the flow of oxygen and nutrients to the tissues and the removal of waste produced by muscle activity. While using different muscles may bring relief at first, it increases stress on the joints and the spine, increasing the chance of injury. The muscles of inexperienced lifters tensed up more quickly as they needed more oxygen. Injuries were most likely to happen during the last 2 hours of a shift when muscles were the most fatigued.

Professor Marras showed in the study that half-hour breaks were more effective in reducing muscle fatigue but agreed that this might not be practical in the industry. The study also concluded that people who are new to lifting need to take breaks more often than experienced workers.
• According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, in 2002, there were more than 345,000 on the job back injuries which required time off from work.

• In 2004, a Harvard Medical School Study showed that back pain was the reason for over 100 million lost work days per year.

Perhaps this latest study on muscle fatigue could be helpful in implementing some changes in the workplace where back injury is a constant factor.

Brought to you by Jupiter Spinal Decompression

Studies of Stress Related Back Pain

2009-03-29T12:13:00.000-07:00

Life is full of stress and its physical effects can be felt throughout the body. Too much stress can lead to heart and blood pressure problems, ulcers and strokes, and the list goes on. You can hurt your back by lifting something but accumulated emotional stress and mental strain can also create pain and damage.

Sometimes back or neck pain is the body’s way of protecting itself and literally forcing a general slowdown. Stress creates tension in the muscles which leads to spasms that squeeze the blood vessels and reduce the flow of oxygen and nutrients to the tissues. Just as it brings nourishment to the tissues, the circulatory system also carries away the waste byproducts of muscle activity.

With increasingly tense muscles, there is a buildup of carbon dioxide and waste chemicals, such as lactic acid, in the tissues, leading to increased fatigue and pain. Stress also increases nerve activity in the muscles which increases tension and decreases flexibility. As the muscles lose their fuel supply, they weaken and are more susceptible to strain and injury.

The back is much less able to tolerate any abuse when under stress. Lifting a box incorrectly, making a sudden twist, poor posture, sitting too long in one position, can lead to back pain. Literally, your back can’t bear it, and that ‘pain in the neck’ or pain in the back’ becomes a protest against the stress.

A person who has a ‘bad back’ due to a degenerative disease or secondary to an old injury often notices the effects of stress more quickly than someone with a healthy back. If spinal nerves are all ready being compressed by the calcium deposits of arthritis or spinal stenosis, it may take just a small amount of stress with minimal muscle tension to further compress nerves, triggering pain.

Sciatica from a disc’s compression of the spinal cord or nerve roots may flare up when a person is feeling stressed and tense. The slightest muscle tension may become ‘the straw that broke the camel’s back’.

Studies Of The Relationship Between Stress And Back Pain

Swedish Army Recruits

Recently, a study of more than 48,000 men in the Swedish Army showed the link between back problems and the ability to cope with stress. A battery of medical examinations, intelligence tests, and assessment of their ability to cope with stress were carried out on these Swedish recruits. Researchers found that in this group:

Over 5000 men had back problems severe enough to interfere with their military service. The vast majority of their disorders were ‘nonspecific back pain and disease’.
The recruits who had poor coping skills were also most likely to have back pain.
Those with good coping skills also had higher intelligence scores, which may indicate that the smarter you are, the better you have learned how to handle stress.

US Army Soldiers

In another study, 368 US Army soldiers who came to a clinic complaining of low back pain, completed a questionnaire about their work habits and their health.

The study linked job stress to emotional stress and this was directly related to their clinic visit complaining of back pain. The greater the emotional distress felt by the soldier, the more visits that were required to relieve his back pain.
This study confirmed research that linked psychological distress and the physiological demands of work to the increased risk of back pain symptoms.
The Army researchers believe that job stress plays an important role in persistent low back pain and that reducing the stress can also reduce the pain.

Great Britain Study

A study in Great Britain of nearly 6000 people showed:

If you are under psychological stress when in your 20s, you are more than twice as likely to suffer low back pain when you reach your thirties.
Researchers believe that early stress may have an adverse effect upon muscle tone which will eventually lead to pain and injury in a vulnerable area.

Stress expert, Venetta Campbell, Ph.D. at Mount St. Mary’s College in Los Angeles, says, “”People who don’t learn how to cope effectively get sick”. She offers some basic stress fighting suggestions:

Get regular exercise
Eat a balanced diet
Keep your finances in order
Follow your own dreams and let go of external expectations
Set goals – having a vision for your future helps reduce the stress of uncertainty. (Brought to you by Fort Lauderdale Chiropractor)

Stress And Back Pain

2009-03-29T06:00:00.000-07:00

Is stress contributing to your back pain? It’s becoming recognized that your state of mind has an effect upon your level of back pain and whether it eventually becomes chronic.. People who are unhappy, worried depressed, or miserable at work are more likely to develop chronic back pain, according to the latest findings. Several recent studies have shown that psychological distress has increased the risk of developing back pain and of experiencing a slow recovery. A study in Sweden found that anxiety and the practice of ‘catastrophizing’ – assuming that the worst will happen- increased the risk of back pain. In another study in the US, people who reported higher levels of anger and distress also reported higher levels of chronic back pain. These studies show that we must review the complete picture with back pain and recognize that it involves much more than just muscles and bones.

In citing the major causes of back pain, in addition to physiological and skeletal problems, the Mayo Clinic cites three Risk Factors:
• Stressful Job
• Depression
• Anxiety

The stresses that are experienced everyday by people are usually easily identified and can be dealt with. Some examples of stress causing situations are:
• Worry about being on time
• Missing a train or plane
• Worry about a job interview
These situations, while upsetting and tension causing, can be handled and, once dealt with, usually do not result in long-lasting problems.

Repressed Emotional Stress
The type of stress that can lead to troublesome back pain is called repressed emotional stress. The process is not logical but, then, many subconscious emotions are not logical or rational. Repressed emotional stress might be caused by:
• An unhappy relationship
• Hidden anger and resentment towards a spouse, children or parents
• Dissatisfaction with a job or career choice, or disillusionment and a poor self image.
• A rift in family relations
• Loss of a loved one
• Financial problems or disaster such as an impending foreclosure
• Physical abuse or threats

Repressed emotional stress may not be easily recognized as the subconscious mind may hide it, creating a smokescreen of back pain symptoms to keep your mind focused on the pain instead of looking for the underlying causes. Repressing (hiding) the real causes blocks any true healing and an effort must be made to recognize and deal with the factors behind the symptoms.

No one should ever discount the powerful effect of stress on the body and the mind.
Stress puts the body into a sustained ‘fight or flight’ mode. When confronted by a threat, whether physical or emotional, real or imagined, a gland in the brain, called the hypothalamus, releases noradrenaline and adrenaline. These hormones trigger a complex set of actions which lead to a physiological and psychological state of hyper-alertness. Problems arise when this hyper-alert state becomes the norm.

The fight or flight mechanism causes muscles to tense in preparation for action, and if this response is not deactivated, the muscles can go into painful spasms, causing severe back pain. As the muscles of the neck and back tighten and squeeze the blood vessels, just like a kink in a garden hose, the supply of nutrients and oxygen are decreased. This leads to pain and eventual weakening of the muscles, making them more susceptible to strain and injury.

Stress is a part of every day life but studies have shown that if we exist in a daily state of hyperawareness, due to all the stresses that confront us, that we are predisposed to develop a number of disorders including heart disease, hypertension, and depression.

Experts at Johns Hopkins Hospital say that a growing number of studies confirm that the mind-body connection plays a role in back pain, both in setting off an initial attack and in contributing to ongoing chronic back pain. These studies have also led to the development of stress-relaxation techniques that can be learned to help break this vicious cycle.

(Brought to you by Jupiter Chiropractor)

Sciatica During Pregnancy

2009-03-29T05:45:00.000-07:00

Imagine the surprise a woman must feel while dealing with the physical symptoms and discomforts of pregnancy, to suddenly develop severe back pain. This is not the usual low back pain that is often experienced during pregnancy; it is sciatica. This sharp, shooting pain usually starts in the buttocks and radiates down the back or side of the thigh to the calf and possibly the heel. There may be paralyzing numbness, in addition to the pain, which can be severe enough to limit mobility.

Sciatica can occur at any time in a normal pregnancy but it is most common during the second and third trimester, when the baby is larger and carried lower in the abdomen. Known as Pregnancy-Related Sciatica, it is caused by the pressure of the baby on the sciatic nerve. This is the largest nerve in the body, about the diameter of a finger. Its fibers branch off the spinal cord at the 4^th and 5^th lumbar vertebra (L4, L5) and the first few segments of the sacrum.

As the pregnancy develops, the abdominal tendons and ligaments become looser to prepare for childbirth. The backs of some women become quite unstable and prone to injury. Medical evaluation should always be sought. In some cases, sciatic pain is due to pressure on the nerve that is caused by damage to the disc between the vertebrae of the spine. This creates inflammation and pain and requires specific treatment.

Most physicians avoid prescribing medications for pregnant patients suffering from sciatica but there are several steps that can be taken to relieve or decrease the discomfort. This includes:

Massage to reduce muscle tension. Some experts believe that tightness in the gluteus and psosas muscles contribute to sciatic pain. Treatment once or twice a week can help relieve stress on weight-bearing joints.
Moist heat alternated with ice packs
Chiropractic treatments may be helpful. Be sure to select a practitioner experienced in treating prenatal patients.

In addition, these helpful habits may decrease the chances of developing sciatica:

Avoid hours of sitting slumped at a computer or standing with a baby on one hip. Both can contribute to lower back pain.
Maintain proper posture and try to stand straight.
Wear flat shoes or ones with a very low heel. Avoid shoes that throw your weight backwards.
Williams Exercises have been developed specifically for use during pregnancy. They may temporarily relieve sciatica pain as they help strengthen the muscles of the pelvic floor, the back and abdomen.
Swimming and walking are excellent exercises if not contra-indicated by the physician.
Avoid walking on an incline as this can cause joint irritation and lead to problems.
Try to avoid significant weight gain.
Try sleeping on a firm mattress, lying on one side. A pillow rolled up under the knees may be helpful.
When getting out of bed, try rolling onto your side first, letting the weight of your feet and legs dangling over the edge of the bed, pull your body into a sitting position. This puts less stress on the lower back, helping you to avoid triggering a painful muscle spasm.
Bedrest may be necessary at times.
See your physician if the pain becomes unmanageable.

Sciatica is unique to a pregnancy and may gradually disappear on its own. Just because you had sciatica in one pregnancy does not mean it will appear in a subsequent one.

(Brought to you by Deerfield Beach Spinal Decompression)

Sacroiliitis And Back Pain

2009-03-22T19:38:00.000-07:00

Sacroiliitis is one of those ‘itises’ that once you have it you won’t want to repeat it –ever!
This inflammation of one or both of the sacroiliac joints that connect the lower spine (sacrum) to the pelvis can be extremely painful. There is severe pain and stiffness in your low back and hips and walking is difficult. Pain may radiate from the lower back and pelvis into the buttocks or back of the thigh.

The sacroiliac joints are surrounded by a large amount of ligaments and fibrous tissue for stability. Because these joints are deep in the muscle of your buttocks, they are difficult to examine. The pain when you move may be so severe that you become unwilling to move at all and this makes the condition difficult to diagnose. Sacroiliitis can be mistaken for other causes of low back pain such as:
• Sciatica
• Herniated disc
• Muscle strain
• Septic Hip
• Abscess of the psosas muscle –this is a part of the hip flexor group of muscles
• Malignancy
• Kidney Infection
• Ankylosing spondylitis
• Appendicitis

Causes
• Trauma, such as a car accident or fall which affects your lower back, spine, pelvis or buttocks. Torn ligaments can create inflammation or lead to infection of the sacroiliac joints.
• Heavy lifting, if done incorrectly, can injure muscles and joints.
• Spondyloarthropathies, which are inflammatory arthritis conditions including: ankylosing spondylitis, arthritis associated with psoriasis.
• Degenerative arthritis of spine, which can cause inflammation of sacroiliac joints
• Osteoarthritis leads to degeneration of the sacroiliac joints.
• Pregnancy, in which the ligaments in pelvis become softer and stretch to accommodate childbirth.
• Infection of the sacroiliac joint. This may be due to a bacterial infection in food such as brucellosis. This disease occurs in slaughterhouse workers, farmers, veterinarians, ranchers. It was spread through contaminated milk prior to pasteurization requirements.
• Reiter’s Syndrome, which causes sacroiliac joint pain along with other symptoms.

Risk Factors
Because of the difficulty diagnosing this disorder, predisposing risk factors must be considered, including:
• History of bone, joint, skin infection.
• Injury to spine, pelvis or buttocks
• Urinary Tract Infection may spread infection from urinary tract to sacroiliac joints.
• Pregnancy, when the area around sacroiliac joints may become inflammmed.
• Endocarditis, which is an infection of the lining of the heart, can spread to joints and other body organs.
• Illicit IV drug use increases the risk

Symptoms
• Pain and stiffness in lower back, thighs, buttocks
• Pain becomes worse with walking due to the motion of the hips.
• Psoriasis, an inflammatory skin condition, may occur with a type of arthritis.
• Pain radiating down leg, often mimics sciatica
• Limp
• Decreased range of motion
• Elevated temperature
• Bloody Diarrhea occurs with Reiter’s Syndrome which causes painful urination, joint pain, sacroiliac joint pain, and eye inflammation
• Eye inflammation in one or both eyes, a symptom of Reiter’s Syndrome and often evident with sacroiliitis.

It is important to seek medical evaluation promptly with sacroiliitis and to not delay treatment. This illness is no ordinary episode of back pain, and it can lead to joint destruction and the possible development of a disabling ailment or a severe systemic infection.

Brought to you by Fort Lauderdale Spinal Decompression.

Reduce Stress – Reduce Back Pain

2009-03-22T19:29:00.000-07:00

One of the main causes of back pain is emotional stress and that back pain may be a signal that you are not coping well with stress. It’s common knowledge that people under stress are tense and that the tension can settle in your back. When you are experiencing constant stress, your muscles may be tightening up so often that you become used to it. But those taut, tight muscles can send a strong pain signal to your brain. Turning the wrong way, a small jolt, or picking up a light load may trigger an episode of back pain.

Fear of recurrent back pain may make you wary of normal activities and, as you limit your movements, your muscles become weaker, more painful, and gradually de-conditioned, more prone to injury. As the vicious cycle continues, it leads to chronic back pain.

You may not be able to control all of life’s stresses but you can learn effective ways to break the vicious stress – back pain cycle.

Steps That YOU Can Take To Reduce Daily Stress

Get a medical checkup to determine the severity of your ailment.
Talk to your health care provider about your stress. Is there a medication or herbal preparation that might be helpful? How about yoga and stretching exercises? Is Physical Therapy recommended?
If neck or back pain is severe, Physical Therapy may be helpful. Pain relieving treatments can be combined with therapeutic exercise, posture correction, and improved body mechanics.
Massage therapy and aroma therapy are stress relieving spa type treatments that can be done at home. A massage of stiff back or neck muscles with a soothing, aromatic oil can be relaxing. A massage after a soak in a warm bath or hot tub is beneficial and relaxing. Massage promotes healing and relieving stress as it increases circulation and relaxes the muscles.
Hot and cold packs can help ease neck and back pain. An ice pack is applied to the neck for 10 minutes and then replaced with a warm or hot pack for 5 minutes. Alternate this process several times.
Stretching exercises loosen tight muscles and help relieve stress. Aerobic exercises are very effective as they burn up stress producing hormones and increase the body’s production of endorphins. These hormones are the body’s natural chemicals that help relieve pain and improve your mood.
Stretch breaks are important, especially, if you are sitting at a desk much of the day. Take frequent breaks to loosen up tight back and neck muscles.
Yoga is a potent stress reliever as it promotes stretching. Viniyoga blends breathing and movement together to quiet body and mind. Unlike other forms of yoga, it is less precise and can be adapted to a person’s physical condition.
Swimming, possibly combined with a sauna or steam bath, will take the kinks out and relieve stress induced pain.

Caffeinated coffee, cokes, and tea do little to reduce stress or promote restful sleep. Avoid red wine at bedtime as it can keep you awake. A good night’s sleep or afternoon nap is helpful in reducing stress and fatigue.
Make meal time less stressful Take your time and eat slowly, savoring each bite. Choose nourishing foods and be aware of what you are eating and the amounts. Snack on healthy foods.
Take time out for yourself .Sit back- relax and put your feet up or walk the dog. A short walk at break or lunch time improves circulation and is good exercise for the back.
Inversion is helpful for some. In yoga, the Shirsonana, head stand position, has been used as a form of postural exchange, which means it reverses the flow of gravity. The concept of turning the body upside down for improved health has been around for centuries. Of course, not everyone likes to do or can do headstands, so inversion products create an easier alternative to ‘reverse gravity’. Compression by the thighs or ankles is decompressive on the spine. Advocates of inversion therapy say just a few minutes can help relax tense muscles. Muscle tension can be measured by a machine that monitors electromyelographic (EMG) activity. One study, conducted by a physiotherapist, found that EMG activity declined more than 35 % within 10 seconds of inversion. This indicates that Inversion effectively reduced muscle tension.
Biofeedback requires special equipment and must be taught by a professional. By monitoring subtle changes in the body’s autonomic nervous system, including muscle tension, blood pressure, heart rate, skin temperature, you can learn what techniques are helpful. The goal is for you to eventually learn how to produce the same relaxing effects without any monitoring equipment.

There are almost as many ways to relieve stress related back pain as there are ways to cause it. Recognizing how stress is affecting your back and causing pain is the first step in decreasing the episodes or lessening their severity.

Brought to you by Delray Beach Spinal Decompression.

Prevent Back Injury. Get Rid Of Those Bad Habits

2009-03-22T19:17:00.000-07:00

During their lifetime, three out of four adults will experience back pain; and with an aging population and the prevalence of obesity, this number may rise even higher. Pain in the lower back, (lumbar area), from sprains and strains is the most common complaint. Often, the cause is due to lifting without using proper techniques or from a sudden twisting movement. Muscle strains and sprains will usually heal with time. Heat and massage, over-the-counter medications, and possibly physical therapy also help.

Some causes of pain are due to severe spinal disorders such as spondylolisthesis (slippage of vertebrae) or a herniated disc. These conditions will require varying degrees of medical treatment and possibly life changes.

Many lumbar strains and sprains can be avoided by changing some practices. Here are six bad habits which can cause a back injury:
1. Using poor body mechanics when lifting
2. Poor Posture
3. Lack of Exercise
4. Overweight
5. Ignoring an injury or persistent back pain
6. Smoking

Poor Body Mechanics
When Lifting:
Stretch and loosen your muscles before lifting anything.
Get close to what you will lift.
Bend your knees and grasp it firmly.
Lift straight up in one motion. DON'T TWIST!
Hold lifted object close to your body.
Move close to where you want to put the object you lifted.
When lowering the object, bend your knees.
Ask for help when needed.

Poor Posture
To Have Good Posture:
Stand with your feet slightly apart.
Keep the knees straight.
Tuck your chin slightly in.
Keep your shoulders back
Sit in a chair that supports your back.
Slouched shoulders, drooping head, locked knees place stress on the spine. Good posture is more comfortable and keeps the body in good alignment.

Lack of Exercise
Find a way to include exercise in your daily life. Keep your back muscles strong and keep your spine healthy.

Overweight
A sedentary lifestyle has become all too common today. Research shows that people who do not exercise regularly and are overweight are more likely to suffer from back injuries and pain. Unwanted pounds, especially if the weight is in the abdomen, place stress on the spine. Follow a proper diet and maintain adequate nutrition.

Ignoring An Injury Or Persistent Back Pain
Most sprains and strains can be cleared up with time, medication, massage, and possibly physical therapy. If an injury goes untreated and there are no modifications in activity, it can progress to a more serious injury and, possibly, disability.

Smoking
According to experts, smoking increases the risk for back injury. Nicotine, in any form, blocks the flow of oxygen and nutrients to the intravertebral discs, the cartilage pads that are cushions between each vertebra, allowing smooth movement of the spine. When they are starved for oxygen, the discs are less able to repair themselves and often collapse at a much earlier age than in non-smokers. This can develop into degenerative disc disease with chronic back pain.

A study by Duke University showed that in 1998, total health care expenditures incurred by people with back pain in the US reached $90.7 billion. Wouldn’t some of that money have been better spent on leisure activities or vacations, something more enjoyable than treating an episode of back pain? Many steps you can take to avoid back injury are simple and based on common sense.

Brought to you by Coral Springs Chiropractic therapist.

Osteoporosis Frequently Asked Questions

2009-03-22T19:07:00.000-07:00

Brittle bones, frequent accidents, grueling pain. These symptoms may sound like someone’s worse nightmare, but they are a reality for many. Millions of people around the world suffer from Osteoporosis, a debilitating disease that breaks down the bones in your body, leading to fractures and severe pain. Due to the fact that this is such a common theme among older individuals, we feel it’s important to educate the masses.
With the right amount of information, perhaps you too can be aware of the causes and know how to prevent such an illness. What is Osteoporosis? According to Medicinenet.com, “Osteoporosis is a condition characterized by the loss of the normal density of bone, resulting in fragile bone.”

When your bones become thin and brittle, fractures are more likely to occur. This can result in extreme pain and if you are older, can make rehabilitation difficult. One hip fracture could significantly put you in serious condition. What are the symptoms? Surprisingly, symptoms are far and few between. Minor pain and poor posture could be sure signs of Osteoporosis. However, most individuals do not experience any symptoms until a bone has fractured. This “too late” scenario proves to be frustrating, as prevention can significantly reduce your risk.

How can I get such a disease? Osteoporosis is caused by a variety of factors. The most prominent one is lack of Calcium and Vitamin D. These nutrients, which are commonly found in milk, yogurt and cheese, strengthen your body. Without this “food” for your bones, they become fragile as you age. Smoking, genetics and menopause may also increase your risk of Osteoporosis. For this reason, it is important you do what you can to prevent this from happening. Are there any ways to prevent it? While you can never be 100% safe from any illness, there are plenty of ways to reduce your risk of Osteoporosis.

The most important thing would be to change your diet and take a vitamin supplement. Be sure to eat healthy and consume Calcium, Vitamin D as well as other nutrients. By giving your bones the food they need to remain strong, you will certainly be setting them up for success. In addition to a nutritious diet, incorporate exercise into your routine. Whether you enjoy riding a bike, running on a treadmill or simply taking a walk, exercising your muscles and bones will significantly benefit your health. What about treatment? If you suffer from Osteoporosis, there is help available. While it cannot be cured, you can find treatments that will slow down the process and alleviate a lot of the pain.

Suffering from back pain problems?

Spinal decompression therapy is a non-invasive and non-surgical procedure that sends pressure to your spine. As a result, the discs begin to stretch apart, enabling lost nutrients such as Oxygen to heal the area. For many, it is finally a way to continue living life, without feeling as if time has stopped. Medications such as Evista can also slow down bone thinning and may actually increase the thickness, which could reduce the risk of fractures. No matter what you choose, know that there are options out there for you. Pain doesn’t have to rule your life - instead, take control of it.

Brought to you by Hollywood Spinal Decompression.

Common Causes Of Back Pain

2009-03-22T17:54:00.000-07:00

Back pain is one of the most common ailments today; in fact, four out of five people in the US will experience it at least once in their life. That number may even increase in the future due to the aging of our population and the increasing amount of obesity. Back pain is one of the most common reasons people go to the doctor and is second only to the common cold as a cause for missing work.

Common Causes

The cause often determines the type of pain experienced. Most acute back pain is caused by an injury or trauma such as a car accident, a sports injury, lifting or straining at work or around the house. Sprains and strains from sudden twisting movements, improper lifting or a fall can all result in back pain.

Symptoms

Pain in the lumbar region (the lower back) is the most common and it may appear suddenly as a sharp, stabbing pain that causes extreme discomfort.
A dull, persistent, nagging back ache may appear after hours of working in the garden or shoveling snow.
Pain that radiates down the front, side or back of leg.
It may be accompanied by tingling, numbness, and weakness of the affected limb.
Back pain may worsen with activity but may also be aggravated by sitting for prolonged periods, such as on a long plane flight or car trip.
There may also be an inability to stand erect and walking may become difficult.

Some physicians say chronic back pain is discomfort that persists three months or more. It is often progressive and the cause can be difficult to determine. Acute back pain is usually of shorter duration and often occurs after an injury or trauma.

The back is an intricate structure made up of bones, muscles, ligaments, tendons, and discs, which are the tough cartilage pads that cushion the vertebrae, which make up the spine. Back pain results from problems with any of these component parts.

Physical Conditions That May Cause Back Pain

Arthritis in the spine can cause pressure on the nerve roots or cause narrowing of the spinal canal and pressure on the spinal cord.
Spondylolisthesis occurs when one or more vertebra slip forward, out of place, causing pressure on nerves, creating back pain.
Herniated or bulging disc is a intervertebral disc that is being compressed and pushed out of its position between the vertebrae. This makes pressure on the sciatic nerve or other nerve roots.
Scoliosis is an abnormal curvature of the spine to one side.
Spinal Stenosis is a narrowing of the foramen, the opening in each vertebrae thrugh which the spinal cord runs. Narrowing causes pressure on the cord, resulting in pain.
Degenerative Disc Disease occurs when the intervertebral discs become compressed, flatten and allow pressure on the roots of spinal nerves.
Osteoporosis results in brittle bones and compression fractures of the vertebrae.
Fibromyalgia is characterized by pain and tenderness over trigger points, one of which is in the lower back.
Pregnancy causes back discomfort and sciatica type pain.

Less Common Conditions That Can Cause Back Pain

Endometriosis is a condition in which endometrium tissue grows outside the uterus on other organs, often causing low back pain.
Kidney stones or kidney infections often cause severe back pain.
Cauda Equina Syndrome is a serious neurological problem due to pressure from a disc on the lower portion of the spinal cord and spinal nerve roots.
Cancer of the spine causes severe back pain.
Bone infection in the spine causes pain.
Stress has been blamed for some episodes of both acute and chronic back pain.

Many episodes of back pain can be avoided by using proper body mechanics and, often, simple home treatment and time will see a back heal within a few weeks. Treatment is varied but based on common sense. Those whose pain is due to a more serious injury or physical condition will find there are many methods of treatment and steps that can be taken to avoid further episodes. Surgery is usually needed only in the most serious cases.

(Brought to you by Pembroke Pines Spinal Decompression)

Improving Your Back’s Health

2009-03-22T12:58:00.000-07:00

No one wants an aching back and there are a number of things that you can do to avoid that misery. First, consider the important functions of the back, especially the lower(lumbar) region. The lumbar spine supports most of the body’s weight when you are standing. It also allows you to bend over, twist, rotate at the waist and bend both forward and back. It takes the smooth action of the vertebrae and joints of the spine, muscles, tendons and ligaments to accomplish all this movement.

Wear and tear over the years, takes its toll on the back and its various components. Joints become worn, discs deteriorate, muscles weaken. However, there are many things you can do to maintain your back’s health and keep it moving well into your advanced years. First, recognize the most common causes of back injury and back pain. Then, take the necessary steps to avoid them.

The Most Common Reasons For Back Pain
• Over-exerting when using your back leading to fatigue
o Fatigued muscles are susceptible to injury.
• Using poor lifting techniques
o Leads to a variety of injuries to back and neck
• Muscle Strains and Sprains
o The most common causes of back pain.
• Sprains of the Ligaments
o These tough fibrous bands attach muscle to bone
• Joint Ailments And Disease

What You Can Do To Maintain Or Improve Your Back’s Health And Avoid Injury
• Exercise
These exercises will strengthen and increase endurance of your back.
o Swimming
o Walking
o Low impact aerobic exercises
• Consult with your doctor to determine whether you can begin a gradual program of these exercises.
o Exercises to increase core muscle strength of the abdominal and back muscles which support the spine.
o Stretching exercises to loosen and lengthen muscles to release pressure on the discs between the vertebrae.

• Use Good Posture When Standing
o Keep your ears, shoulders and hips in a straight line with your head up and stomach pulled in.
o Don’t slouch or slump as both of these positions fatigue the muscles, making them more prone to injury.
o If you must stand in one position for a long time, shift a portion of your weight by resting one foot on a stool or a low object.
o Low heeled shoes with non-skid soles are much better in avoiding trips and falls.

• Use Good Posture When Sitting
o Use a chair that is the correct height and allows your feet to rest on the floor.
o Support the lower back with a small cushion or towel roll and keep your knees and hips level. A chair with a swivel base decreases twisting and turning.
o Take stretch breaks when sitting for long periods of time or on trips.

• Use Good Body Mechanics When Lifting
o When lifting a heavy object, let your legs do the work. Don’t bend. Lift straight up and down.
o Keep the heavy object close to your body and don’t twist when setting it down.
o Always get help when lifting an awkward or extra heavy load.
o Avoid lifting and twisting at the same time.
o Push rather than pull heavy objects.

• Maintain A Healthy Weight
o The more weight that your body carries, the greater the burden on the spine and back muscles. When excess weight is in the abdomen, the muscles of the lower back must support the load.

• Stop Smoking
o Nicotine reduces the amount of blood flow carrying oxygen and nutrients to the muscle tissues, contributing to fatigue. Fatigue muscles are more prone to injury.

• Good Sleeping Habits
o Since many spend up to one third of their day in bed, it is important to good mattress which gives proper support.
o Don’t use thick pillows that leave your neck at a sharp angle when sleeping and causes stiffness.
o The best way to sleep is lying on your side with your knees bent. A pillow between the knees may add support.
o If you sleep on your back, a small pillow under your knees and in the small of the back adds support.
o If you sleep on your stomach, put a small pillow under your hips.

Keeping your back in good health is much easier and less expensive than dealing with a back injury that could develop into prolonged, chronic back pain. Brought to you by Pembroke Pines Chiropractic therapist.

IDET Treatment For Back Pain

2009-03-22T12:43:00.000-07:00

Intradiscal Electrothermic Therapy (IDET) is a relatively new, minimally invasive, procedure developed to treat chronic low back pain due to a spinal disc problem. It may be recommended for people who have had chronic disc related low back pain for at least 3 to 6 months.

It can be used to treat:

Small disc herniations
Internal Disc Tears
Mild disc degeneration which is limited to one or two levels

Degeneration of the disc

Experts believe some cases of persistent disc pain may be caused by nerve fibers that have migrated from their normal location in the outer layers of the disc into its interior. The degeneration of the disc with age or injury is characterized by the breakdown of the tough outer layers of the disc, allowing fissures to develop in its walls. Filled with blood vessels and small nerves, these fissures can become a source of chronic pain in many patients.

Injury to the disc

If there has been a back injury which compressed the intervertebral disc, causing it to bulge or herniate, material from its center will protrude, stimulating pain sensors within the disc. This material from the nucleus of the disc is irritating and adds to the pain.

Before an IDET procedure is done, a discography should be completed to clearly identify the problem. IDET is not recommended for:

Severe disc degeneration
Spinal stenosis
Spinal instability as with spondylolisthesis

The Discogram is the primary diagnostic tool although an MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) may also be done. With a Discogram, a needle is placed in the affected disc and a small amount of dye is injected. This provides information on the disc structure and pain source. It is very important that an accurate diagnosis is made and the disc identified as the source of the pain. IDET is not recommended for pain symptoms due to problems with spinal structures, such as nerve roots or spinal joints. It is important that the disc itself be identified as the primary source of pain.

Before the Surgery (Preoperative)

One week before the surgery, the following should be done:

Stop taking NSAIDs (Nonsteroidal Antiinflammatory Drugs), aspirin and aspirin compounds.
Continue taking any prescribed heart, blood pressure or diabetic medications.

Be sure to alert your physician if you are:

Taking blood thinners or have a history of a bleeding disorder
Allergic to iodine (can’t tolerate shellfish or allergic to IVP dye)
Having any illness, elevated temperature or sign of infection

DO NOT eat the day of the procedure.
Your physician may permit a small amount of clear soup, broth or juice. Be sure to ask.
Arrange to have someone drive you home.

The Procedure

An IV will be started and you will be given a mild sedative.
You will be positioned on the x-ray table and given a local anesthetic.
The doctor will insert a hollow needle into the disc. The process will be visualized on fluoroscopy.
An electrothermal catheter or heating wire is inserted through the needle and positioned in the disc.
The wire or catheter is slowly heated to about 194° F for about 15 minutes. This heat causes the disc walls to thicken and heal small tears as it destroys the nerve endings.
An antibiotic may be given IV or directly into the disc to prevent any infection.
The needle will be removed and a dressing applied to your back.
You will be observed in a recovery area until you are ready to go home.

After Surgery

Pain may be more noticeable after the procedure, lasting 2 or 3 days.
Physical therapy will be prescribed.
Restrict bending and lifting during recovery and avoid sitting for long periods of time.
A lumbar support may be prescribed for up to 8 weeks.
Walking and easy stretches are recommended.
Activities such as swimming, running or tennis should not be resumed for at least 6 months.

This is the least invasive type of spinal procedure. Complications are rare but possible risks include:

Weakening of spine
Disc infection
Nerve damage
Disc damage

Pain may remain for up to 3 months after the procedure. There have been no large long term studies to evaluate the effectiveness of IDET. Brought to you by Lake Worth Chiropractor.

Good Habits Help You Avoid Back Injuries at Work

2009-03-22T12:09:00.000-07:00

Most back injuries on the job are due to a combination of factors. Some of them can be affected by changing your lifestyle and taking a look at:
• Your weight
• Your degree of fitness
• Your muscle conditioning
• Your flexibility

There are four factors in the workplace which are related to the increased risk of back injury:
• Force - if your job is physical and you have to lift or move heavy objects often, exerting too much force on your back may cause an injury.
• Repetition refers to the number of times that you must perform a certain movement. This can lead to muscle fatigue or injury, especially if your body is positioned awkwardly or you are stretching to the end of your range of motion.
• Posture is the position in which you spend the most time. For instance, sitting at a desk or bending over a computer all day will bring aches and pains. On the average, your body can usually tolerate being in one position for about 20 minutes before you feel compelled to move.
• Stress is increased by pressures from home and work, leading to muscle tension and tightness, which may develop into back pain or result in an injury.

Making Your Workplace Safer
Minimize Hazards
• Remove boxes, stools, and other obstacles from your area that might cause you to trip or fall.
• Look at the setup of your office or workspace. What can you do to modify it to reduce the strain of repetitive tasks and reduce physical demands? The goal is to decrease force and repetition while maintaining safe posture.

Pay Attention To Your Posture
• Poor posture places stress on your back. When you slouch, stand slumped or swaybacked, the back’s natural curves are exaggerated and this can lead to muscle fatigue and possible injury. Good posture relaxes your muscles and minimal effort is required to maintain your balance.
• If you sit at a desk, get a chair that supports your lower back.
• If your chair does not support the curve in the lower back, tuck in a small towel roll or pillow.
• Do not sit with a wallet or bulky item in a rear pocket pressing on your back as this can create pain and disrupt balance in your lower back.
• Adjust the height of your chair so your feet stay flat on the floor.
• If you work at a computer, make sure the chair and the monitor are positioned properly.
• If you use the phone, do not cradle it between your ear and shoulder as this definitely contributes to neck and shoulder pain.
• If you stand for long periods, rest one foot on a stool or small box periodically to relieve the strain on your back.
• Hold reading material at eye level when you are standing.
• Try to avoid bending forward when using the computer, handling desk work or completing handwork. This helps relieve strain on neck, shoulders and upper back.

Adopt Healthy Habits
• Change your position often and take a stretch break. The Mayo Clinic recommends a 30 second timeout every 15 minutes or so to stretch, relax, or move.
• Wear sensible shoes. Low heeled shoes with non-slip soles are preferable to high heels.
• Work on your coordination and balance. Do exercises to improve your balance and keep you steady on your feet.
• Regular walking is good exercise for the back and helps with your balance.
• Try to minimize the sources of stress on the job and at home.
• Develop coping mechanisms when you feel especially stressed.
• Perform deep breathing exercises, take a brief walk, or talk to a trusted friend.

Plan Your Moves
• If you are carrying something heavy, know exactly where you are going to put it and clear the area of obstacles and clutter.
• Avoid carrying heavy bags, briefcases, and purses whenever possible. Try to lighten the load that you carry on a daily basis.
• Avoid unnecessary twisting, bending, reaching.
• Lift properly by letting your legs do the work and keeping a heavy weight close to your body.
• If your back hurts, stop the activity and give the muscles a rest. Evaluate what you are doing to determine whether there is a better way you can complete this task without discomfort.
• Ask for help if a load is too heavy.

You can avoid back pain and injury by first understanding the causes and then making necessary changes in your work environment and your habits. To protect your back and maintain your well being, your focus should be on prevention. Brought to you by Jupiter Spinal Decompression.

Fight Osteoporosis Today

2009-03-22T11:58:00.000-07:00

While growing old has its benefits, most of us face a wide array of problems and diseases that like to lurk in the background. One of the most common illnesses to seize older victims is Osteoporosis. This disease weakens your bones, leaving them so fragile that they actually start to break. Given that this is such a severe illness, it is no wonder why millions of people experience debilitating injuries.

The problem with Osteoporosis is that it can go undetected for years. Unless a bone is fractured, most people do not even realize they have it. This is because symptoms are generally minimal and do not appear until a bone has been broken or fractured. If you think you may be suffering from Osteoporosis or would like to know the warning signs, pay close attention to your current physical state. Are you suffering from pain, getting shorter or have poor posture?

These are just a few effects of weak bones. It is highly recommended that as you age, you consult a physician. Many people do not realize that if they have this disease, one simple fall could cost them their lives.

Despite the fact that we assume Osteoporosis is caused by old age, the factors go beyond this assumption. When we are young, we easily can grow bone that remains healthy and strong. However, as we get older, the bone becomes thin and brittle. No matter how healthy you are, bones do break down and weaken over time. Even still, there are ways to keep it to a minimum. Ever hear your parents say “don’t forget to drink your milk?”

Surprisingly, there is some truth to that statement. In order to maintain healthy bones, you have to consume nutrients such as Calcium and Vitamin D. By not giving your body enough, you are setting yourself up for a future filled with disease.

Desperate to prevent Osteoporosis? There are a sundry of things you can do to minimize your risk. First and foremost, throw away the junk food and start fresh. A healthy diet that is filled with calcium will help your bones in the long run. Whether you drink milk, yogurt or ice cream - it is critical that you give your bones the nutrients they need to flourish. Hate these foods? Try a Calcium supplement. Exercise is another method that could keep them flexible.

If you do suffer from Osteoporosis, there are treatments available. Several medications such as Evista are on the market today that slow down progression. These treatments may delay bone thinning, though they won’t entirely stop the process. If you’re looking to treat back pain that stems from Osteoporosis, spinal decompression therapy could be a life saver. Known to reduce some of the symptoms, this treatment consists of being hooked up to a harness that is wrapped around your back. It actually sends pressure to the spine, which stretches the discs apart, causing lost blood supply and Oxygen to flood back into the area. As a result, healing begins and the constant spasms are reduced.

Dealing with Osteoporosis is no easy task. From preventing the illness to recognizing the symptoms and finding treatment, it is a long journey. Regardless of how old you are, get on the right path while you can. Consuming a healthy dose of Calcium is important while you are young, but it doesn’t stop there. Changing your habits at any age may reduce the risk and slow done the progression. It is never too late to turn a new leaf. Brought to you by Pembroke Pines Spinal Decompression specialists.

Facet Syndrome

2009-03-15T15:29:00.000-07:00

We’ve all suffered from joint pain at one time or another. It not only is an uncomfortable experience but it can be debilitating and lead to emotional problems. The thought of struggling with such discomfort is a fear that can be difficult to face, but thousands of people every day have to deal with such an epidemic.

Facet syndrome, which occurs when the joints in your spinal vertebrae are injured, is one common problem that targets every age. Recognized as one of the more frequent illnesses, facet syndrome can be extremely painful. When the spine is irritated, one can experience a variety of symptoms. From pain in an isolated area to pinched nerves and a loss of motion, the pain usually gets worse when you bend backwards or straighten your posture. For gymnasts and other athletes, facet syndrome is common problem.

Given that they are constantly moving around and stretching their spines, it is no wonder why vertebrae may sustain injuries or get irritated. Facet syndrome may also be caused by whiplash or the aging process. No matter how you have contracted it, it is vital that you put an end to the pain. First and foremost, consult a physician. Creating your own rehabilitation plan is not only dangerous but could worsen the situation.

For this reason, seek a professional so that he/she can evaluate your back. In many cases, they may recommend that you see a physical therapist. While it depends on the severity of facet syndrome, many find that spinal decompression therapy works wonders. Recognized as a non-invasive and non-surgical procedure, spinal decompression therapy can significantly reduce symptoms. Surprisingly, the treatment itself is relaxing and normally pain-free. It consists of having a harness wrapped around you that is then hooked up to a computer. The machine sends pressure to your spine, enabling the discs to stretch apart.

As a result, lost nutrients such as blood supply and Oxygen flow back into this area, which promotes healing. In order to truly feel the effects of such a procedure, it is imperative that you undergo 4-5 sessions per week for a total of twenty five sessions. While this may sound like quite a time commitment, each session is only thirty minutes long. That’s right - you don’t have to worry about quitting your job or putting other plans on hold. You can get help and still live your life. For most patients, it finally gives them hope and an answer to their constant pain. If you feel that you need additional treatments, acupuncture may be another alternative.

Acupuncture, which consists of placing needles in your skin, is a great way to naturally alleviate the discomfort. With no medicine required, this technique balances your energy and ensures pain relief. It also is known to promote calmness, allowing you to de-stress at the same time. Chinese medicine can be a difficult topic to grasp, but it certainly is another way to get rid of facet syndrome.

(Brought to you by West Palm Beach Chiropractor)

Facet Joint Syndrome

2009-03-15T15:20:00.000-07:00

The facet joints are the connections between the vertebrae of the spine. Just like the knee or elbow or any other joint in the body, they allow the spine to bend and twist. They are also stabilizing joints that prevent excessive motion and help hold the body upright.

The joints are on the back of each vertebrae and they link one vertebra to the vertebrae directly above and below to form a working unit that allows movement. The surfaces of the joints are covered with a tissue called the articular cartilage. The joint itself is lined with a membrane called the synovium and the joint is enclosed in a fibrous sac, the joint capsule. Synovial fluid, a thick liquid which acts like lubricating grease and surrounds the joint, allows the bones to move without friction.

When these joints become inflamed secondary to injury or arthritis, pain and stiffness occur. If the joints in the neck or cervical spine are affected, these symptoms develop:

Headaches
Pain in the neck, shoulders, and upper back.
Difficulty rotating the head
Patients often complain that they have to turn their entire body to look to the right or left.

When Facet Joint Syndrome affects the lower back, there is:

Pain in the lumbar area
There may be referred pain to the buttocks and thighs
Stiffness of back
Difficulty getting out of a chair
Difficulty standing up
Complaints that the patient must walk hunched over

An injury or changes associated with aging may cause the cartilage cushion that covers the bones to wear away, resulting in pain as the bones in the joint rub together. Also, small nerves that branch off the larger spinal nerves can become irritated or pinched, causing pain. Facet Joint Syndrome is more common in people over 50 and is usually associated with aging.

Causes of Facet Joint Syndrome

Whiplash Injury can cause the syndrome in the cervical area.
Sports activities,such as gymnastics, where neck is extended
Arthritis
Poor posture which pushes the spine out of alignment
Inflammation
Infection
Degeneration of the joint

Diagnosing Facet Joint Syndrome

History and Physical should be done
An X-ray, CT (computerized tomography) scan of the spine or an MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) will rule out fracture or herniated disc.
Facet joint block would determine if the joints are the source of pain.

A local anesthetic is injected into or near the nerves that supply the joint. If there is a significant decrease in pain, the diagnosis is confirmed.

Treatment

NSAIDs (Non-steroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs) such as ibuprophen, Naproxyn
Muscle relaxants and narcotic pain relievers might be prescribed for more severe pain.
Physical therapy
Exercise program to improve flexibility and increase pain free movement
Posture correction
Activity Modification to avoid excessive lifting, stretching, bending

Approximately 80% of the patients who follow an active rehabilitation program and take NSAIDs become pain free. This usually lasts several months.

When conservative treatment fails, a surgical procedure called, Raiofrequency Rhizotomy, uses an electrical current to destroy the sensory nerves to the joint, resulting in pain relief.

(Brought to you by Jupiter Spinal Decompression)

Discitis and Back Pain

2009-03-15T15:08:00.000-07:00

Discitis is relatively uncommon but it usually affects children under the age of ten. It is a low grade infection, usually caused by staphylococcus or a virus. It affects the disc space between two vertebrae and develops very slowly. Medical experts say this should be viewed in the same category as vertebral oseomyelitis (infection within the vertebrae). It can lead to severe, debilitating, neurological damage.

Disease Process

The infection does not start primarily in the in disc space but migrates there from other sources in the body. Urinary tract infections, pneumonia, and soft tissue infections are believed to be the most common sources. Often, no site of infection is discovered. The lumbar (lower) back is affected most often, followed by the cervical spine (neck) and last is the thoracic spine (upper back). Some post-surgical patients have developed the disease weeks after their operation, and, in their case disease diagnosis is not delayed. They rarely develop neurological deficits.

The edges of the disc erode and the degree depends upon the amount of infection and destruction within the disc. These areas become calcified, once healing begins, and, eventually, there is an interbody fusion, when healing is completed

Disease in Adults

This infection has a slow, insidious onset which can result in diagnosis being delayed for months. Pain in the back and neck are the most common complaints and movement makes it worse. Because the symptoms are similar to those of back strain, there is usually a delay in seeking medical attention. A doctor is often not seen until the sufferer develops an elevated temperature and chills, with weight loss. This delay can lead to a severe condition and the mortality rate (death rate) ranges between 2% to 12%. It more commonly affects males, with a ratio of 2:1 that has gone as high as 5:1.

Disease in Children

The onset is often more sudden, acute, and the back pain is accompanied by a refusal to walk, sit up, and there is extreme irritability. There may be localized tenderness over the spine and decreased range of motion.

Common Symptoms in Adults And Children

Elevated temperature
Chills
Sweating
Feeling of fatigue
Loss of appetite
Localized tenderness of spine
Pain may travel to other parts of the body, including abdomen, hip, leg, groin.
Movement aggravates pain.

Diagnosis

Laboratory studies
Sputum cultures may be done to isolate bacteria for diagnosis.
Blood Culture
X-rays of spine may show narrowing of disc space.
Nuclear scan of spine
CT Scan (Computerized Tomography)
MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging)
Echocardiogram can identify bacterial endocarditis which is responsible for some cases of discitis.
Needle Biopsy of painful area to obtain tissue for culture

Treatment

Antibiotics specific to kill organism once it’s identified
IVs for hydration and supportive care
Immobilization is necessary.
Usually 2 weeks of bedrest
Back brace when patient is able to ambulate

This allows vertebrae to fuse in an aligned position.

Bracing may be necessary for 3 to 6 months following treatment to avoid collapse of vertebrae and development of kyphosis ( curvature of spine – ‘round back’)

Discitis occurrence in the US ranges from 1 in 100,000 to 1 in 250,000 but in less developed countries, it is more common. In some parts of Africa, 11% of all patients seen for back pain were diagnosed with discitis.

(Brought to you by Lake Worth Chiropractor)

Diagnosis and Treatment Of Coccydynia

2009-03-15T14:58:00.000-07:00

Coccydynia is pain in the coccyx, the tailbone, which can cause a great amount of discomfort and limit mobility. Sometimes, this pain is not taken seriously by general practitioners but it is important to learn the cause if the pain persists. In some cases, the cause is obvious as pain develops after a fall or injury. A pilonidal cyst also creates pain in the coccyx and since there is often a visible abscess, diagnosing the problem is simple.

Other causes of coccydynia are more complex and require a thorough examination and diagnosis. One of the first goals is to rule out the possibility of cancer as a cause of the pain. Before deciding upon a plan of treatment, it is important to distinguish coccyx pain from low back pain or other causes not related to the coccyx.

Diagnosing Coccydynia

History and Physical must be completed.
CT Scan (Computerized Tomography)
MRI ( Magnetic Resonance Imaging)
Dynamic X-rays –this means x-rays taken when sitting and standing. A comparison may show a coccyx that dislocates when the patient sits, causing pain.

Treatment Of Coccydynia

Falls

Use a cushion or well padded seat to relieve pressure on the coccyx when sitting. Several new devices have been developed which are far superior to rubber donuts or foam pads. Many can be found on the internet when doing a search for ‘coccyx cushions’. This cushion may be necessary for an extended period of time.
Rest and avoid re-injury.
Anti-inflammatory medications, such as ibuprophen and naproxyn, are helpful.
Corticosteroid or local anesthetic injections may dramatically relieve persistent pain.

Unstable Or Dislocating Coccyx

Rest and avoid re-injury.
Corticosteroid injections are helpful.
If pain persists and corticosteroids are unsuccessful, the coccyx may be removed surgically.

Childbirth

Rest often allows the coccyx to return to its normal position.
If this fails, treatment as for Unstable or Dislocating Coccyx is appropriate.

Repetitive Strain

This is due usually to long periods of rowing or bicycle riding.

Rest – avoid activities that caused the pain.
Anti-inflammatory medications, such as ibuprophen or naproxyn relieve discomfort.

Misaligned or Long Coccyx

Injections of corticosteroids are often helpful.
Surgery is not recommended.

Boney Spur or Spicule On Coccyx

Local injection of corticosteroids and/or local anesthetic have been helpful.
Surgery has been successful.

Muscle Spasms Of Gluteus Maximus Muscle

Physical therapy and massage have been effective in relieving spasm.

Piriformis Syndrome

Physical therapy
Stretching exercises
Injections of Corticosteroids Locally

Pilondal Cyst

Surgical removal is necessary as infection reoccurs repeatedly.

Coccyx pain and the associated difficulty with sitting and movement can be most miserable and memorable. Sufferers who gain relief are always anxious to avoid any reoccurrence whenever possible.

(Brought to you by Coral Springs Spinal Decompression)

Diagnosing Causes of Sciatica

2009-03-15T14:33:00.000-07:00

Sciatica is a painful symptom of a disorder in the lumbar spine. There are a variety of conditions which cause sciatica and the first step in developing a treatment plan is arriving at an accurate diagnosis.

Since trauma, such as one caused by a sports injury, a fall, or involvement in a car accident, can lead to sciatica, obtaining an accurate history is the first step toward diagnosis. The physician may ask you such questions as:
1. When did the pain start?
2. Was there an injury or accident that you recall?
3. How did your pain develop?
4. Describe the pain. Does it radiate down your leg? Is there numbness or tingling?
5. On a scale of 1 to 10, with 10 as the most severe pain, how do you rate yours?
6. What activities make this pain worse? For instance, sitting for long periods of time?
7. Does walking up or down hill make the pain worse?
8. Does coughing, sneezing, or straining increase your pain?
9. Have you tried any form of treatment?
10. What helped relieve your pain?

The physician will complete a thorough physical examination, evaluate your posture, test your range of motion and note any specific movements that cause pain. He will examine your spine, note its curvature and alignment and check for muscle spasms. The physician will test your reflexes, your muscle strength, neurological changes, and pain distribution.

In addition, the following tests may be done:
1. Lab tests for symptoms of infection
2. Spinal X-rays
3. MRI –Magnetic resonance imaging which produces cross-section images of your back to detect tumors, or damage to discs and ligaments.
4. CT scan-Computerized tomography which can identify spinal damage.

The MRI and CT scan are more effective than x-rays at showing the soft tissues in your spine and are helpful in identifying conditions such as a bulging or herniated disc. In addition, your physician may decide additional tests are needed to help in a diagnosis:
1. Bone scan will help identify osteoporosis, vertebral fractures, or infection
2. Discogram in which dye is injected and x-rays are taken to confirm the diagnosis that a disc is causing your pain.
3. Myelogram which shows a spinal canal or spinal cord disorder after an injection of dye and an x-ray or CT scan.

Obtaining an accurate diagnosis of the cause of sciatica pain is not always a simple process. Once the cause of your pain is determined, your physician will be able to develop a treatment plan that is appropriate for your condition.
(Brought to you by Spinal Decompression)

A Controlled Study Of Spinal Decompression And TENS For Treatment of Low Back Pain

2009-03-15T13:15:00.000-07:00

Several studies have been completed and reported on the success rates of the treatment of Chronic Low Back Pain using the mechanized Spinal Decompression machine. One study recently appeared in May 2007 in Chiropractic and Osteopathy. It compared success rates from the use of a non-surgical intermittent mechanized traction machine with the use of TENS in relieving low back pain due to a herniated or bulging disc.

First, to understand any study, you need a picture of the disorder and the chronic misery it causes. Back pain due to an injury or accident is the leading Workmen’s Comp injury and the main reason for disability in people under 45. The spinal column is made up vertebrae stacked one on top of another. Between each vertebra is a tough, fibrous cushion, called an intervertebral disc, which contains a jelly-like substance. These discs act as cushions absorbing shock and allowing the spine to bend, twist and turn. Healthy discs are thick, flexible and compress when pressure is put upon them, like a sponge.

When there is an injury, the vertebra may shift out of alignment or compress the disc causing the disc to bulge or rupture, out the jelly like substance. This herniated disc or bulging disc causes pressure on the spinal nerves, resulting in pain, numbness, and may progress to decreased function in the affected arm or leg.

It is also known as:

a pinched nerve
sciatica
a blown out disc
a slipped disc

The protrusion of the disc or its core material not only causes pressure on the spinal nerves, it compresses blood vessels and interferes with circulation to the area. Deprived of nutrients and oxygen, the disc cannot heal, and, over time, flattens, becoming stiff and hard, just like a dry sponge. This condition develops into degenerative disc disease.

Standard treatment has included:

Physical/chiropractic therapy
epidural injections (an injection into the epidural space of the spinal cord)
NSAIDs (Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs)
Hot or cold packs with massage
Electrical stimulation (TENS)
Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression
Acupuncture
Surgery – as a final resort

A treatment method that is gaining support is Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression, in which some studies show a success rate of 71% to 90%. An FDA approved machine, using a computerized program gently stretches the patient’s spine, slowly drawing the vertebrae apart, relieving pressure on the disc, allowing it to heal.

Testing of the machine continues and a recent study compares treatment results of Spinal Decompression Therapy with that of the TENS ( Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation) unit. TENS is a small unit which can be worn during therapy. This FDA approved treatment for back pain delivers low-volt electrical current to the affected area through electrodes. Its electrodes pierce the skin just deep enough to reach nerve fibers, usually 1 to 2 inches. It activates the body’s pain fighting mechanisms and may be used several hours a day.

The Study

The object of the study was to compare the effectiveness of the two treatment methods in relieving pain and improving mobility in patients with a bulging or herniated disc.

Subjects were recruited through newspaper advertisements and had to meet several criteria for inclusion in the testing:

Disc protrusion or herniation confirmed by MRI (Magnetic Resonate Imaging) or CT scan (Computerized Tomography)
Low Back Pain for 3 months or more; could be associated with pain radiating to one or both legs.
Average duration of pain was 7.3 years

The study enrolled 44 patients; the average age was 42 years. The group was initially divided into 2 groups of 22 people each.

Spinal Decompression treatments consisted of 30 minute sessions, 5 times a week for 4 weeks. This was followed by once a week treatment for 4 additional weeks.
The TENS Group received treatment with a TENS unit for 30 minutes daily for 20 days. This was followed by a weekly treatment for 4 additional weeks.
Both groups were able to take anti-inflammatory and non-narcotic pain relievers.

The Results

The outcome was measured by the 10 centimeter Visual Analog Pain Scale (VAS) and a disability scale. The disability scale rated the subject’s ability to perform their most affected activity on a 0 to 4 scale, with 4 being “could do an activity without limitation”.

Success was defined as a 50% improvement in the VAS, showing the degree of pain relief. Any decrease in disability was given a positive rating. During the study, 4 subjects dropped out, leaving 19 in the Spinal Decompression Group and 21 in the TENS Group, a total of 40 participants.

Conclusions:

Spinal Decompression:

13 out of 19 people (68.4%) showed improvement.
The 6 months follow-up showed 7 out of 19 people maintained their level of improvement

TENS Treatment:

0 out of 21 subjects showed any improvement.

Additional scientific studies are being planned or are underway now to demonstrate conclusively the treatment effectiveness of Spinal Decompression Therapy.

(Brought to you by Lake Worth Spinal Decompression)

Coccydynia And Low Back Pain

2009-03-15T12:51:00.000-07:00

Back pain due to coccydynia can be quite miserable – just ask anyone who has ever developed it after a fall on a slippery floor, a skid on the ice, or a bumpy landing while skiing or snowboarding.

Coccydynia is pain in the coccyx, or tailbone, the boney area at the end of the spine between the buttocks. Sometimes referred to in layman’s terms as a ‘butt ache’, it is a nagging pain, which can become excruciating, and increase with pressure from sitting or moving to stand up. It has been described as a pain similar to sitting on a sharp knife or a marble that rolls around or a feeling of being impaled on a cane or broomstick. The pain and discomfort may persist for months to eventually become chronic.

Causes
Falls On The Buttocks.
• This is the most common cause, often diagnosed as a fractured coccyx.

Unstable or Dislocating Coccyx
• The most common cause of pain is due to a coccyx which dislocates or moves more than normal when you sit down. This may develope after a fall, from childbirth or injury in a car accident. The actual cause is often unknown but this disorder is responsible for 55% of cases of coccyx pain.

Childbirth
• If the joints around the pelvis become more flexible in preparation for childbirth, sometimes the coccyx can be pushed out of position easily.

Repetitive Strain
• This is common after a great deal of rowing or bicycle riding

Misaligned Or Long Coccyx
• In this condition, the coccyx bone points forward or is angled forward about 70°, which is greater than normal and causes pain.

Boney Spur Or Spicule On Coccyx
• This has been the cause of pain in 14% of patients.

Muscle Spasms In The Gluteus Maximus Muscle Of The Buttocks
• These muscles help lower the body from a standing to a sitting position. Muscle spasms cause pressure where the glutueus is attached to the coccyx.

Piriformis Syndrome
• The piriformis muscle runs horizontally from the lower spine to the top of each femur (hip bone). It crosses the sciatic nerve and spasms in the muscle cause pain in the hips and down the leg. Sitting may aggravate it.

Pilonidal Cyst
• This is a birth defect in which an abscess develops at the end of the tailbone, causing pressure, swelling, inflammation, and pain in the coccyx area. The cyst is usually removed surgically.

Symptoms Of Coccydynia
• Pain during or after sitting
• Acute pain when moving to standing after sitting
• Deep ache around coccyx
• Shooting pains down both legs
• Pain during bowel movements
• Pain during intercourse
• Pain during menstruation

Coccydnia may clear up after a few months but in the case of persistent pain, it is wise to have a medical evaluation to determine the cause.

(Brought to you by Fort Lauderdale Chiropractic)

Causes of Sciatica

2009-03-08T16:39:00.000-07:00

Sciatica pain is caused by irritation and inflammation of the sciatic nerve, a large nerve that branches off the spinal cord. The sciatic nerve is the largest nerve in the body, about the diameter of a finger. Its nerve fibers begin at the 4^th and 5^th lumbar vertebra (L4, L5) and the first few segments of the sacrum. It runs vertically down the back of the thigh, behind the knee, branching into the calf (hamstring muscle) and further down into the heel. The pain usually affects one side of the body, starting in the buttocks and gradually radiating down the back or side of the thigh. It may radiate down the leg below the knee and it may even reach the heel. It is described as:

Burning
Sharp
Dull ache
Tingling or Numbness
Continuous or intermittent pain

These painful symptoms may progress to severe pain in the heel or foot along with numbness, tingling and progressive weakness in the affected limb. Additional symptoms are:

Pain increases with walking
Pain worsens with prolonged sitting
Pain may be worse when trying to stand from a low sitting position
Pain worsens when bending backward, coughing, sneezing, or straining

Several different types of spinal disorders can cause a compression of the spinal nerve, resulting in the pain and inflammation of sciatica. The most common causes are:

Herniated Disc
Bulging Disc
Degenerative Disc Disease
Lumbar Spinal Stenosis
Spondylolisthesis
Piriformis Syndrome
Spinal Tumor
Trauma caused by fall, car accident, or sports injury

The most important step in treating sciatica is to determine what is causing the compression of the sciatic nerve roots. Because there are many causes, symptoms and treatment vary from patient to patient. Diagnostic tests and examinations must be complete and thorough. Imaging methods such as MR neurography has been effective in diagnosing 95% of severe sciatica patients. This is a modified MRI technique which provides improved pictures of the spinal nerves and the effects of compression on these nerves. Since some reports show that 15% of sciatica sufferers have disc related problems, this technique is a helpful diagnostic tool. The implementation of an effective treatment plan will be determined by a diagnosis of the cause of the sciatica pain.