Back Pain

Living And Dealing With Back Pain At Home

2010-03-08T18:21:00.002+02:00

More than 80% of the population will experience back pain at some point in their lives, it is one of the most common illnesses in the world and can be caused by very many different reasons. Fortunately, because there are so many sufferers there are also very many doctors and professionals who specialise in treatment for back pain patients and there are many different strategies which they can use.

Very often, back pain appears for no apparent reason, it may be that you just wake up one morning and your back has 'gone'. You probably won't even be able to lift yourself up from the bed without excruciating pain and may be tempted to lay there for a few days, popping painkillers until you feel that you are able to stand. Whilst this is very tempting it really will only make matters worse. In most cases, it is extremely important to carry on doing as much gentle exercise as possible, even just going for a short walk, and lying in bed can significantly delay the healing process.

On other occasions you may find that you suffer an acute back pain caused by lifting or twisting your body into an unusual position. This too can be extremely painful, but it is important to keep moving around gently, if at all possible, and continue to do the simple tasks in your life as much as you can. You may find that a visit to a chiropractor can help, with heat treatment and manipulation of your back repairing some of the damage and reducing the pain.

Another very common cause of back pain is poor posture. Many of us slouch lazily when we walk, stand or sit, and this puts unnecessary strain on the muscles of the back. It is very important to stand up tall and sit with correct posture when at all possible, especially if you work sitting at a desk for most of the day. Stand up and walk around once in a while to stretch your muscles and give your back a rest.

One very good way to ensure that you stand with good posture is to put one arm behind your back, and hold your other arm at the elbow across the bottom of your back. This ensures that you stand correctly and is a very good way to train yourself to improve your posture, and therefore reduce the risks of suffering from back pain in the future.

About the Author

With a lifelong passion for health, I enjoy sharing my personal experiences with diet and exercise. I also enjoy reviewing products, enjoy my latest reviews on what you need to know about choosing a bath soap dish and a magnetic soap holder for your bathroom.

What Are the Best Back Braces & Supports for a Herniated Disc?

2010-03-08T18:16:00.000+02:00

A herniated disc, what is it? A spinal disc usually stays between the vertebrae. When it ruptures (known as a spinal disc rupture), some of the disc will move outside it's normal boundaries. This is known as disc herniation.

When a spinal disc pushes out from between the vertebrae it is considered to be a herniated disc. If you have this condition, you may feel pain in your back or legs. You may also have some muscle weakness. A disc that is pushed out from between the vertebrae often pinch spinal nerves or the spinal cord.

The pinched nerves are what causes the pain from the condition. You may have it if you feel electric shock pains either in your arms or legs. You may also feel numbness and tingling. This may also be felt in either the arms or the legs. The muscle weakness you may feel is the result of irritated nerves.

What causes a herniated disc? It can occur from a sudden event such as an accident or fall. It can occur over time from prolonged strain on your spine. It can stem from condition called spinal stenosis.

When the spinal canal narrows and the nerves and spinal cord become compressed, it is known as spinal stenosis. When there is less space for the nerves and they get compressed, they become irritated which leads to back pain.

How can you relieve herniated disc pain? Using a brace or support can help you reduce some of the pain you feel from it. Back braces for disc herniation can both compress and reinforce your back.

This means that these braces help relieve back pain and help you have better posture. Back braces for disc herniation can help improve your quality of life. There are several types of back braces for disc herniation from which you can choose. Some of the best include: the Ossur FormFit Advanced Back Brace, the ProCare 10" Criss-Cross Support, and the Mueller Back Brace.

The Mueller Brace is made specifically to help with pain from disc conditions such as this. The Ossur FormFit and the ProCare both help with pain from degenerative spine conditions as well. The Mueller Brace costs $44.95, the Ossur FormFit costs $35.95, and the ProCare costs $27.95.

Based on the back pain you have and your own personal needs, you can determine which brace will be right for you. When you have back pain, back braces for disc herniation can help.

The above prices have been referenced from Braceshop.com.

About the Author

Want to find out more about Back braces for Disc Herniation? , then visit WhichBrace.com to find the right brace for your injury, condition, activity or sport.

Free Guide to Back Pain Cure

2010-03-08T18:11:00.000+02:00

Well today, we wanted to bring you this link to a website called The Back Institute: https://gethealthy.infusionsoft.com/go/7DayCure/axl1913 who are offering you a free copy of either their book: "The 7 Day Back Pain Cure" or a free copy of any of their 3 Back Pain Relief Guides. You are under absolutely no obligations if you order these free books or guides. But if you have any form of back pain or sciatica, we highly recommend that you at least have a browse of the information that they give you. It may just change your life.

We just wanted to give you the link to this page where you can get a couple of freebies in regards to back pain. We know that back pain can be one of the most debilitating and painful of injuries and we have seen in our jobs how these injuries and even chronic back diseases can ruin peoples' lives, careers and worse still, families. We hope you find their free copies very useful and we will probably be bringing you more from this site in the near future. We just need to scour their site a bit more to see what other natural health item they have that we can bring to you. So please do yourself the favour and regain your zest for a happy and pain free life again. Cheers from Jane and Peter

About the Author

Hello again everyone, we hope you are all well today. My wife and I have just started a couple of small sites and we would like to invite you to have a look at them if they interest you at all. Our site is called Healthy In Home and you can find that one at http://www.healthyinhome.com and on this site we list alternate medications and supplements for a variety of illnesses etc. Take care one and all. Cheers Peter and Jane

Hip Pain Symptoms

2010-03-08T18:09:00.000+02:00

Hip pain is a common problem, and it can be confusing for you because there are many causes. It is important to make an accurate diagnosis of the cause of your symptoms so that appropriate treatment can be directed at the underlying problem. Prior to looking at hip pain in detail, I would like to point out that your hip pain may be coming from the hip itself, or from your lower back and pelvis. 50% of the cases I see of hip pain have a lower back component and 50% do not.

The hip joint is the largest ball-and-socket joint in the human body. Within the hip there are several bursae, which are fluid-filled sacs. The purposes of the bursae are to cushion the hip joint, lubricate it and help the tendons and muscles work as they should. For the majority of people, hip problems and pain develop over time.

Fractures involving the hip joint are seen all too often as our bodies age. No one who has been around for the last couple decades and watches television at all can forget the whole "I've fallen and I can't get up" ad campaign. It is sad, but true, that many older adults will have hip problems due to a fall. The fracture issue comes in when the fallen person is dealing with osteoporosis.

Anytime you perform an abs exercises in which your legs are moving, your hip flexors will work and more pressure will be placed on the hip. In my experience I have met quite a few people who feel a popping or clicking in the front of their hip when doing ab exercises like leg raises, scissors, flutter kicks, sit ups, or even bicycle crunches.

The hip joint can also become infected. Very occasionally it will be the site for an attack of gout. The bursae that lie over the joint can be inflamed with bursitis. Rheumatoid arthritis can injure the joint. Conditions such as spondylitis can cause stiffness or loss of motion of the hip.

The most common symptom with hip problems is pain
Pain due to hip problems may be felt in the groin, on the outside of the hip region, the buttock, inner part of the thigh, the front of the thigh, and even the knee. In fact, there have been patients who've had knee surgery... when the problem was really in the hip. NOT a good thing! Pain coming from the hip joint also needs to be distinguished from low back disorders as well as knee disorders.

Treating hip pain
In most cases that are not as extreme as the ones which require hip surgery or hip replacement, doctors recommend medication, physical therapy like hip exercise and changing your sleeping position and getting an ergonomic pillow to accommodate your legs in the right position. This is where the Leg Wedge Pillow proves to be right what people who suffer from hip pain need. This orthopedic pillow keeps pelvis correctly aligned and relieves pressure on the hips as well as in all joints.

About the Author

Read About Breast Enlargement And Breast Enlargement Pills And Also Breast Pills

Back Pain And Motorcycling, Seven Simple Ways to Avoid It

2010-03-08T18:06:00.000+02:00

It's a beautiful sunny day, and you are out on your Bike, but after 20 minutes you start to experience excruciating back pain. It happens all the time. How you long to take to the open road and ride for hours in comfort.

If you experience this pain and motorcycling is becoming a nightmare, not a pleasure then these seven simple but effective tips will help bring that enjoyment back and banish the pain forever.

Have the correct posture when riding. Leaning forward and down too much to reach the controls this will cause hunching and lead to back strain. You should be sitting up straight, like in an office chair. You don't have to change your handlebars to do this however. A cheaper alternative is to fit 'risers' to your machine. These change the position of your existing handlebars. Even raising and pulling back the bars by just a few inches can make back pain and motorcycling a thing of the past.

Make sure that your Bike is properly maintained and the suspension is working as well as it can. The vibration and bumps that are an inevitable part of motorcycling will only make any back problems worst.

Stop and rest every half hour or so. If you can stop, gently stretch your back and walk around a little. It's easy to get absorbed in something you really enjoy, and before you know it you've spent hours in the saddle without even realising it.

If you are tall you may have to change your seat. If your tailbone rubs up against the back of the seat where it curves up this means constant pressure, and that's not good for you. Find out if this really is the problem as this is an expensive solution.

Talk to other motorcyclists about your problem. Unfortunately for many people back pain and motorcycling go hand in hand. Visit forums like The Total Motorcycle Community Forum at www.totalmotorcycle.com/BBS/index.php and you'll get some great tips from other motorcyclists with the same problem.

Follow an exercise program to strengthen your back, as prevention is better than cure. Start googling and find out some simple things you can do. Article sites like the one you may be reading this in have great ideas for exercises. You can, of course, consult your doctor or back specialist about what's best for you.

Is it your really your bike's fault? It's good to find out if your prized machine is indeed the culprit after all. Again see your doctor or physio and see if something else might be the problem. What would you rather pay? $300 for a new saddle or $50 for a short course of physio.

Back Pain and Motorcycling needn't go together if you follow the proven principles in this article. Anyone can develop these problems when riding and they can be cured. Use these strategies and very soon the only problem you'll have when motorcycling is choosing which road to enjoy hours of riding without pain.

About the Author

Are you in pain and worried that you may need back surgery? Mike Reynolds has put together a complimentary report on Spinal Fusion Surgery that will help dispel any fear and anxiety you may have about this procedure. To download it instantly visit http://www.stressfreebacksurgery.com/

Easy Stretches For Your Back and Neck Muscles

2010-03-08T18:01:00.000+02:00

Neck and back pain is a common problem for many folks nowadays. Our lifestyles sometimes place our bodies into positions that lead to strain and stress on the muscles of these regions. Happily, there are quite a few effective stretching exercises that concentrate on the muscles of the neck and back to help you avoid strained muscles. Following are a handful of straightforward stretches that will relieve your sore muscles and help you avoid further injury.

Shoulder Roll: This is certainly a very simple stretch and ideal for relaxing the neck and shoulders. In either a seated or upright stance, circle your shoulders up, back, down and forward. Begin with a slight circular motion, then slowly enlarge it to a wider rotation. Do 10 rotations going backwards, followed up with 10 repetitions going forward.

Basic Back Stretch: This straightforward stretch is terrific for your vertebrae. Here's what you do: Standing erect, tighten your abdominal muscles while you lean down at the hips while dropping your hands to the ground. Allow your head to hang in a relaxed fashion, and push gently against the ground using your fingertips. You need to sense the stretch in your spine as you perform this. Endeavor to hold this pose for 30 seconds. If this is too hard for you in the beginning, build up slowly to this amount of time.

Wide Back and Shoulder Stretch: This stretch is done right after the basic back stretch. Keep you hands touching the floor, set your feet far apart with your arms positioned inside your legs. Then lift your hands from the ground, wrap your arms across the back of your calves, and clasp your ankles, lightly pulling with your hands. This will loosen up your shoulders and stretch your upper back. Maintain this stance for about 30 seconds.

Stretching exercises are important to keep your muscles supple, but there are further precautions you ought to take if you want to prevent back and neck strain. Good posture is essential to keep your vertebrae in alignment and help to avoid unnecessary pressure on the supporting muscle tissue. You should also be sure to refrain from any activities which have the potential to result in injury. To provide an example, take care when picking up heavy objects. Don't bend at your waist but rather at your legs when you reach down. When you're lifting, your legs must bear the load, not the back.

The way you sleep at night may also lead to strained muscles in the neck and back. It's essential that you purchase a mattress and pillow that provide excellent support. You should also ensure the room temperature is just right so that you don't spend your night trying to get comfortable. Doing some simple stretches right before you head off to bed will result in loose muscles along with a peaceful sleep.

About the Author

Muscle stretching is effective for managing back pain, and it's also an important component of overall fitness. Using a stretching DVD is a great way to learn the proper technique so you can stretch safely and effectively.

The correct way to keep your Back in Shape

2010-03-08T17:59:00.000+02:00

There are actually a lot of diseases nowadays and probably the most well-known health problems, in particular in older people are the neck and back pain (lower back pain). The pains might be as a result of stress of the certain muscles and may even last for a short period. Thanks to wrong sitting/standing posture/accidents, people suffer from back pain that will last for a long time.

The spinal cord is an expansion of brain running through a long, hollow canal in the column of vertebrae. The spinal cord is nourished, surrounded and protected by the meninges, cerebrospinal fluid, fat, and a network of veins and arteries.

In the United States, 85% of adults below the age of 50 are affected by back pain. Back pain is regarded as the second most common reason given for missing a workday. There are many individuals who suffer from work-related back injury and are one of several most occupational hazards, in particular people in IT fields.
If you have back pain lasts more a than few days and has absolutely no improvement, it's high time to seek out medical attention. The primary symptoms can be having difficulty in passing urine; numbness in the back or genital area; numbness, or weakness in the legs; shooting pain down the leg; or unsteadiness when standing should seek doctor�s assistance.

Diagnosing the original reason for neck and back pain is really difficult and medical history is taken and a complete physical examination that includes a neurological verification is performed. You'll find certain preventive measures if taken properly can help a person to maintain a healthy back as well as prevent back pain. Following are the preventive measures:

� Correct body mechanics really needs to be learned and understood. If your work calls for more of strain on the back, like repetitive bending, lifting, and twisting care must be taken.
� You should exercise every day to maintain your back muscles strong and flexible.
� Constantly maintain a good posture.
� Don't sit or stand at one place for a long time.
� Try and maintain your weight in accordance with your body size.
� Eat healthy foods.

So, it is in your duty to keep your back strong and healthy. Needless to say about the many health associated sites online. Fundamentally formed by Health communities, they play a significant part by helping communication between victims with their issues and solutions, while assisting them to handle any situation daringly. Though there are several sites like that, I'd like to make a specific mention on the cancer related Health Community Websites. It's more special to me, to speak about them as it was these Health Community websites that stood by me during my battle with cancer. I was able to speak to different people battling cancer, their experiences gave me the courage to face the situation head-on. The suggestions given by the victims and the sites administrators were really helpful. These websites greatly help the victim to face and take care of the problem with prudence.

About the Author

If you are worried about having health problems or you think that you have health related issues then you can take immediate steps and get support and information at community health network.

Homeopathic Back Pain Remedies Are Still Valid Today

2010-03-08T17:54:00.000+02:00

Even a little back pain can stop you from getting up and getting things done. If you're more inclined to head for homeopathic back pain remedies, then you might find something here.

Homeopathic back pain remedies can be complex or simple. Some have really hard to take smells or can involve seemingly strange ingredients. Others are a little easier to break down and digest, if you know what I mean.

Among the easiest homeopathic back pain remedies is using a product with rubbing alcohol, or Isopropyl alcohol, as a base. Added to that, you'll find a variety of different herbs, oil, and water in the mix.

When we think of curing pain, we think of something that smells strong, but not necessarily awful. Look for oil in a bottle, that you can apply externally, which contains favorite smells, such as cloves and a touch of peppermint.

These remedies are simple, and using them is as well. You'll want to gently massage the oil onto the skin in the affected area. Then make sure to wash your hands and keep them away from your face, particularly your eyes. Some of the ingredients can be irritating!

Repeat the maneuver two or three times a day, if needed.

This remedy is useful for minor chronic pain. If you are wondering whether or not to use it in your case, ask your pharmacist.

If you suffer from chronic back pain, or you injured your back recently in an accident, seek medical attention first. You only have one back, and it is important to pay attention to pain when it manifests. The earlier you can find out what happened, in terms of injury, the clearer your situation might seem to your health practitioner. Also, the events are fresh in your mind, which can aid in piecing together the scenario.

If this is not your choice, at least make a note, written or record your voice, to remember the events and witnesses. Ask them to record their version of what happened as well, so that you will have all the information should you need to answer certain questions.

If someone falls and lands on their back, on a staircase, speak to the person and call for help. It is not a good idea to move someone until you are sure that it is safe to do so.

Once you're home, and you have to keep your back limber, you might want to find that oil and massage it into the spot. Then you'll be able to get back up and begin to step back into your normal routine.

Even if your head is not tired, your body will be, especially with back pain. Our back helps us to walk and to lift, and is the basis for our body. Make sure you plan rest to help your body get well. Perhaps right after a good massage would be the time to get some healing shut-eye.

Homeopathic back pain remedies can be an important step in getting you back into action, one step at a time.

About the Author

Effective homeopathic back pain remedies from Rawleigh Products founded by W.T. Rawleigh in the late 1800s.

Choosing The Best Footwear For Back Pain Prevention And Relief

2010-03-08T17:46:00.000+02:00

It's estimated that 80% of the population will experience some form of back pain in their lifetime. More so, statistics reveal that backaches are the second most common reason people see their physician, and millions of dollars are lost every year in the workplace because of work absences due to lower back pain. With that being said, understanding the cause of your pain and how you can prevent further complications is important for maintaining optimal health and a healthy, pain free back.

Perhaps you are suffering from severe back pain now or want to learn more about prevention in order to avoid problems in the future. You may not realize it, but your feet can have a lot to do with your back pain and discomfort, and a proper pair of shoes may be the best treatment for alleviating your ache.

What Causes Backaches?
The spinal column and surrounding muscle tissue form the foundation of the body. When strain is put on the muscles, tendons, and vertebrae, excruciating back pain can be the result. Improper lifting, standing for extended periods of time, and the deterioration of age can all contribute to backaches as well. This can lead to lost time from work, medication, and even surgery.

Something as simple as the wrong pair of shoes can be the cause of your agony, and this includes inadequate footwear cushioning, high heels and insufficient shoe stability. Fortunately, this is an easy fix, and with the help of your San Antonio podiatrist, you can find the most suitable pair of shoes and put an end to your back pain once and for all.

The Importance of Posture
The spinal column is comprised of bone with discs of tissue, muscles, ligaments, and sensitive nerve endings. The vertebrae are stacked one on top of the other, making the spinal column both strong and flexible. However, the incorrect posture can pull the vertebrae out of alignment, which in turn pulls on the tender muscles and nerve endings. Even with the best posture, if your shoes aren't the right fit or activity-appropriate, back pain can end up being a chronic condition with far-reaching effects.

Choosing the Best Footwear for the Best Spinal Health
Shoes with high heels or thin soles can contribute a great deal to backaches. If you suffer from chronic backaches, especially if you spend a lot of time on your feet, you need to seriously consider a switch. Any kind of a heel will throw off the balance of your spinal column, which in turn irritates and may damage the sensitive nerves and ligaments located in your lower back. Instead choose shoes that offer support, opting for lower heels that provide stability.

You should also look for shoes that have a thick and cushioned sole to absorb the shock of walking and good arch support. If the spine is the foundation for the rest of the body, your feet are the foundation for your spine.

If you change your footwear and still experience nagging backaches, it may be time to schedule an appointment with a qualified physician or your podiatrist in San Antonio. A podiatrist can thoroughly evaluate your feet and recommend shoe inserts or orthotic shoes that can take the pressure off specific areas of the spine and ultimately ease your back pain.

The best way to find out if your shoes are causing your backache is to consult with a qualified foot specialist. Your San Antonio podiatrist can help determine the best course of action to treat those troublesome backaches.

About the Author

Sean Hartmen writes for Dr. Davis of South Texas Podiatrist, an experienced San Antonio podiatrist. When patients seek treatment for heel pain and bunions in San Antonio, they turn to this podiatrist in San Antonio, TX for foot and ankle care they can trust.

Acupuncture: cure my low back pain with Chinese medicine

2010-03-08T17:39:00.002+02:00

Chinese Medicine, classical and traditional involves a range practices originating in eastern Asia. Although well accepted throughout China and many other parts of the world, it is considered an alternative medicine in the West. Practices include use of herbs, dietary adjustments, movement therapies, massage therapies, moxibustion and acupuncture. While western medicine is based upon theories related to anatomical function and physiology, Chinese medicine is based upon at least five major theories relating the human body and its life energy to nature, the universe, and a higher being. Its practices have roots that are thousands of years old. One aspect of Chinese medicine, acupuncture, is the procedure of inserting and manipulating very fine needles into points on the body to treat and cure medical disorders, including pain. Acupuncture points, stimulus placement sites, are situated along body meridians through which our theorized life energy flows. Modern acupuncture texts present meridians as conceptual targets. While there is no physical evidence to support their existence, consider that the only evidence of gravity is the fact that bodies attract each other in predictable manners (e.g., objects stay on the ground). Similarly, people respond to acupuncture stimulation along meridians in predictable manners. Moreover, acupuncture does not cause undesired side effects like most regularly prescribed medications. The earliest recognized written record of acupuncture is from the second century BC. Different variations of acupuncture are practiced throughout the world. Acupuncture has been difficult to study by western medical researchers due to the invasive nature of the practice (having to place needles). Scholarly reviews are often biased by origin of the researchers. However, there is general agreement that acupuncture is safe when administered by well-trained practitioners using sterile needles, and further research is ongoing. Alternative treatment approaches are available to the untrained and general public via electroacupuncture and acupressure. These are applied at the same points, along the same meridians, without the risks related to needle use by the novice, in case I wish to cure my own low back pain. One extraordinary source of information on acupuncture is A Manual of Acupuncture, published by the Journal of Chinese Medicine Publications. Following research of many years, Peter Deadman, editor-in-chief of The Journal of Chinese Medicine, and colleagues created the primary reference for the study and practical application of acupuncture points and meridians. With subtle use of color to illustrate the acupuncture points and anatomical features in approximately five-hundred illustrations, it is a very comprehensive, attractive and user-friendly tool for the novice and professional. The index identifies every part of the body reached by each meridian, and there are separate indexes to direct readers to address health issues via Chinese medicine categorization and western medicine symptom approaches.

About the Author

see who we are at http://curemylowbackpain.com/Cure/?page_id=4

Slipped Disc: Non-Invasive Procedures For Repair and Recovery Of A Slipped Disc

2010-02-16T12:22:00.000+02:00

Okay you have been diagnosed with a bulding disc. Now What!? Your doctor has probably given you some options from rest to surgery. Let us look at what is involved in the repair and recovery from a herniated disc. If I used my situation as an example, it should give you a good idea of what's involved.

Last year I was injured at work since then I have explored and experienced most of the procedures currently being used. Here is a look at two procedures that a doctor will probably recommend.

1. Rest: The first thing the doctor did was recommend rest for a couple of days. Be advised that spending several days in bed is not the best thing to do. Recent research strongly suggest that extended bed rest only prolongs the problem and weakens already stressed muscles. A couple of days is okay, but even then you need to get up every hour or so and move. A short walk around the house, some neck and shoulder rolls and gentle stereching is a good practice to follow.

2. Physical Therapy: Next it was off to a physical therapist for some expert help with proper exercise and movement techniques. I do feel the PT was worth the time and expense (I was covered by workman's comp) I "enjoyed" the attention and was satisfied with my therapist. However It did not fully repaired and recovery from my disc.

Now these procedures are non-invasive meaning that they do not enter the body through injection or surgery and are bascially risk free. Do they repair and speed recovery of your disc problem? Maybe, for some this is all that is needed. For me I had to undergo more invasive procedures which I will share with you in another article.

The key to repairing and recovery is finding a life long program of exercise that will prevent back problems in the first place and repair your back if you are injured. But how do you prevent, repair, recover and cure a heniated disc? How do you lose the pain and get on with your life? Well the answer is to find a system that strengthens the back and abdominal muscles correcting muscle imbalance.

One of the top rated programs is This program developed by The Healthy Back Institute has helped thousands to lose their back pain for good. The Lose The Back Pain This System custom designs a program of specific movements and exercises tailored to your exact needs.

About the Author

How much longer are you going to suffer with back pain, sleepless nights and constant discomfort? You deserve relief from your aching back and to live pain free. I know - I've been there: there are alternatives to suffering and surgery. But it is up to you! Take the first step now and get your life back. Visit Aching Back Blues and receive FREE Information on how to lose your back pain for good.

Back Support Cushions to Reduce Back Pain

2010-02-16T12:16:00.000+02:00

You may know these back support cushions by the name of lumbar support cushions. Whichever name you use, you are talking about back support cushions that relieve or cure back strain while simultaneously correcting your posture.

They come in various varieties.

Coccyx Cushion The Coccyx cushion provides minimal support. However, it helps your back by elevating your back a little higher than your knees. This adjusts your postures and ensures you are sitting correctly. Coccyx cushions also offer a cut-away area to ensure your coccyx is not receiving unhealthy pressure. The coccyx is usually known as the tailbone. It is the last segment of the vertebral or spinal column.

Coccyx cushions are particularly beneficial to individuals who are experienced a previous injury to the tailbone region.

Lumbar Roll
Shaped like a wiener, a lumbar roll cushion is composed of a comfortable but compact material. You position it in the small of your back while seated. In this way, it causes your back into a backward arch. Since it also supports you from below, this position is conducive to back health.

The lumbar region is also known as the lower spine. The five vertebrae it contains are the largest and strongest vertebrae in the mobile part of the spinal column.

Although a simple device, a lumbar roll provides good support for your back and offers considerable relief from back pain.

To test it out, experiment by rolling a towel into a sausage shape and place it in the position described above. You should be able to feel the difference immediately. Although this makeshift cushion can be helpful, you are likely to get better results from a proper cushion.

Posture Curve Back Support Cushion
A posture curve back support cushion is an arced shaped cushion designed to encircle the whole lower back. There is a hollowed, concave area where they connect with your back. Typically, these cushions are utilized in an office setting, in an office chair or computer chair.

Most often a posture curve back support cushion is designed from a foamy substance. Memory foam is becoming increasingly popular for back support cushions, as well as for mattresses designed to help sore backs. Memory foam tends to hold its shape longer than other types of foam. It adjusts itself nicely to the shape of our back. Expect to pay a somewhat higher price for memory foam, given its special qualities.

Lumbar Pad
Unlike the posture curve support cushions, a lumbar pad does not have an arced shape. It is quite the opposite, in fact. This pad is shaped to provide as much support as possible to the lumbar region. It places a substantial mass of padded foam into the lower back area.

If your back pain is situated solely in the lower back, this lumbar pad may be a good choice for you. However, if the pain is more far reaching, or if you suspect that bad posture may be a contributing factor, then you are better off with a posture curve cushion.

In The Car
You can utilize the cushions mentioned earlier in the car as well as in the home or office. If you want a little luxury, you can buy cushion for the car that have the ability to heat up for additional relief. In most cases, you use the cigarette lighter as a power source.

You can also find back supports make from mesh. You attach them to the car seat for back support. They have an added function in that they can wick away your perspiration. This is a distinct advantage if you are embarking on a lengthy trip.

Other Treatments for Back Pain
Interested in finding out about other treatments for back pain? Visit this link: Treatments for Back Pain

About the Author
Since opening her freelance writing business in 1996, June Campbell's writing has appeared in an array of print and online publications Visit her on the web for guides to writing business proposals, sample joint venture contracts, sample independent contractor agreements, sample NDA agreements and much more. Visit:
Nightcats Multimedia Productions

Cure my low back pain: alternative pain care strategies you never considered

2010-02-16T12:11:00.000+02:00

This set of articles will give you pause and ask you to consider different perspectives and approaches regarding pain. Just follow the links.

Spinal Inversion-traction for Pain Relief.
Do you think hanging upside down to relieve back pain is unusual, or a new-age approach? Reconsider your perceptions. Inversion probably goes back to the dawn of documented human medical care.

19 elements of your foot and back pain treatment plan.
You present to your doctor for with foot and back pain. This is your initial visit.

Alternative pain management pathways.
You are aware that there are various means to address low back pain. As alternatives may differ substantially, . . . . .

Work-related low back pain and alternative treatment.
You hurt your back at work and are not sure what to do. If your symptoms are not localized or they are incapacitating regarding your ability to work, what will you do?

Cure my low back pain by nailing it back together?
You present to your primary care physician in the following manner. Chief complaint - pain.

Cure your low back pain. It is all in your mind?
While causes of back pain may not be all in the mind, experiencing the symptoms is all in the mind. That is to say, in the absence of a neural connection between that which you are experiencing in your back and signals transmitted to your brain, there would be no pain (i.e., if a tree fell in the woods all alone, did it make noise?).

Alternative Pain Management | Cure your pain.
People present to clinicians every day with the objective of management. Presuming the validity of the pain, consider the following treatment options.

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These articles were produced by our team of pain management professionals.

Herniated Disc? Try A Chiropractor For Pain Relief

2010-02-16T12:08:00.000+02:00

Herniated Disc? Try a chiropractor for pain relief. Many people experience some sort of back pain at least once in their lives. A herniated disc can develops over time due to poor posture, bone loss, or suddenly due to exercise injury, working, or an accident. Some, still, develop problems in their back with no good explanation. However, no matter what the case, chiropractic services can help to ease back pain

Chiropractors realize that the health of the back can affect the entire body. If the back is out of alignment, it can offset the hips, legs, shoulders, and neck. That is why chiropractors focus on healing the back as part of the whole. Since back pain is located in the core of the body, seeking help from chiropractic services can help to alleviate the need for other special treatments special treatments.

There are three main phases of chiropractic services. The goal of the chiropractor is to find the underlying cause of the pain. Their techniques seek to cure the pain at its source instead of merely masking it with prescriptions. Chiropractic services use gentle and natural methods in order to help back pain. These methods range in technique from massage to electric stimuli. Surgery may be required from time to time, but is largely avoided with chiropractic services.

Many people who receive chiropractic services to help with back pain find that the treatments are far more successful than with traditional medicine. The treatments help to alleviate their pain in a way that is comfortable and lasting. Since the techniques are gentle, patients can look forward to progressively more relaxing treatments and time goes on. Once the original problem that was causing pain is taken care of, the number of office visits can be decreased over time. This means that ultimately, a person who suffers from pain can discontinue visits. This option is not nearly as common with traditional medicine. So if you are suffering from a herniated disc try a chiropractor for pain relief.

But how do you prevent and or cure lower back pain? How do you lose the pain and get on with your life? Well the answer is to find a system that strengthens the back and abdominal muscles correcting muscle imbalance. One of the top rated programs is This program developed by The Healthy Back Institute has helped thousands to lose their back pain for good. The Lose The Back Pain System custom designs a program of specific movements and exercises tailored to your exact needs

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Kidney stone symptoms: Fight through the pain!

2010-02-16T12:03:00.000+02:00

Stomach pain; side pain; back pain. These are a few of the side effects you'll likely experience when suffering from kidney stones symptoms. The raw pain that you experience from kidney stones symptoms is typically the first tell that you have developed a kidney stone.

Hard minerals and acid deposits make up kidney stones and they gather on the inside of the kidneys. These deposits are oftentimes diluted or broken down by urine and proceed through the bladder without being noticed. However, if the urine changes state and becomes concentrated, the minerals crystallize and the stones become too large to continue and that is when the anguish commences.

The fact that you are feeling pain means that the kidney stone is in motion. It is not sitting idle inside the kidney; instead it is trying to pass from the kidney and through the ureter. Once that mobilization begins, you'll more than likely experience these other kidney stones symptoms:

* Urine that is cloudy, foul-smelling or you may find it mixed with blood * Urinary tract pain and the need to frequently urinate * Increased pain if you try to flush out your system by drinking more water * Sickness, flu-like symptoms such as throwing up

When experiencing kidney stones symptoms, you'll feel the pain in your sides and back, just below the ribs and it'll tend to fluctuate with intense periods of pain that may last up to 60 minutes at a time. People will often share stories about a painful bout with kidney stones, but it is important to note that you can have kidney stones minus the pain. Sometimes they will show up on X-rays when being treated for something else, or are determined to be the cause of a persistent continual urinary tract infection. If you think that a kidney stone may have developed in your system, don't wait for the pain; seek treatment right away.

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The more you know about kidney stones; the easier time you'll have trying to prevent this disease.

Exercises for Back Pain Relief

2010-01-22T01:17:00.000+02:00

Written by Chicagohealers.com practitioner Mark Sobor, M.D. - SOMA Pain Management Center - We all suffer from back pain at some point in our life. Back pain can occur because of a specific injury or it could be ongoing, requiring changes in our lifestyle. Treatment depends on what caused the pain.

Before attempting any exercises, you must rule out that the source of your pain requires immediate medical attention.

Call your doctor if:

*Pain is shooting down one or both legs, and the leg(s) feel weak
*You cannot control normal bathroom functions
*The pain is intractable and can't be controlled with medication

Back pain stemming from an injury
Try to remember what caused your back pain. Was is shoveling snow, lifting heavy furniture or just leaning down the wrong way to tie your shoes? When we reach down without bending our knees, we put tremendous pressure on our lower spine and surrounding muscles. This inherent weakness stems from the time man stopped walking on all fours and became upright. Ideally, we should be using the thigh (quadriceps) muscles in our legs to provide lifting power instead of those in our lower back.

In the 2-3 days following a back injury, you should rest in order to relax the muscle spasm causing your back strain.

*Take an anti-inflammatory medication like ibuprofen
*Lay flat on your back on a hard surface (carpeted floor) with a pillow under your knees OR lay in a fetal position

Perform these exercises to ease your back pain when you are feeling better:
*Lay flat on your back on a hard surface
*Pull knee to the chest, one leg at a time, hold for several seconds, release
*Repeat 5-10 times for each leg
*If you can pull both knees to the chest at the same time without pain, perform that 5-10 times also.

Self-acupressure using tennis balls
*Lay flat on your back on a hard surface
*Place two tennis balls under your back on either side of the spine, starting with your lower back
*Either lay on the tennis balls or, if the pain is not too great, rock back and forth on the tennis balls, putting pressure on your acupuncture points
*Repeat, moving the tennis balls gradually up your spine

Chronic back pain
Ongoing back pain has many causes, but much of it is due to one of three factors:
*Being overweight, putting strain on our back muscles
*Lack of exercise, resulting in weak muscles
*Bad posture while sitting, standing or sleeping, resulting in muscle spasms

There is a wealth of information on the Internet and in libraries about how to change your lifestyle habits. For back pain specific guidelines, visit www.spine-health.com or www.FamilyDoctor.org.

Strengthening your back and other muscles to relieve back pain
Our back muscles do not work in isolation. We have to stretch and strengthen all our muscles and joints in order to relieve back pain. In addition to doing exercises stretching our hamstrings, neck, shoulders and spine every day, we should routinely do other low-impact exercises such as:

*Walking
*Pilates, which strengthens core muscles
*Yoga
*Swimming
*Low impact aerobics
*Riding a stationary bike or using an elliptical trainer

There are no guarantees that you will never have back pain. By exercising regularly, bending your knees every time you bend down and maintaining a healthy lifestyle, however, you can minimize the chances of injuring your back and suffering chronic back pain.

Please give credit to the original author when republishing all or part of any article. Also, kindly link back to www.ChicagoHealers.com

About the Author

http://www.chicagohealers.com/2010/01/exercises-for-back-pain-relief/ Mark Sobor, M.D. http://www.chicagohealers.com/acupuncture-chinese-medicine-herbs/soma-pain-management/ ChicagoHealers.com mission is the education and advocacy of natural medicine and a holistic lifestyle. http://www.chicagohealers.com

These Are Some Methods To Cope With Back Pain During Pregnancy It's

2010-01-22T01:13:00.000+02:00

There are numerous health problems that women have to deal with while carrying a child, back difficulty being one of them. Dealing with back trouble when pregnant could be a little tricky. This is as you cannot use back difficulty drugs as there is a likelihood of probable side effects to the fetus. But however, you can deal with back trouble while pregnant with some easy things.

Your posture is of great significance if you would like to keep back pain at bay. As the fetus grows, an additional pressure is exerted on the lower back. This is caused because of the change in the position of centre of gravity. It is for that that most pregnant girls walk with bent backs which results in back trouble. It's important for pregnant women to test their posture. Pull your shoulders backwards and attempt to stand straight. This will help deal with back stiffness to a great extent.

While you want to maintain distance from the back stiffness medicines, you can always go in for natural remedies to dull your back trouble. One of the most common yet effective systems of back pain removal is using an ice pack or going in for heat therapy. If you are keen to opt for ice therapy, all you need to do is to simply apply a cloth wrapped in ice cubes to the painful area. On heat care. if you're curious about heat treatment, simply employ a hot water bottle or go in for heating pad.

Practicing simple stretching exercises can also help alleviate back trouble when you are pregnant. Stand straight on the floor and swing both your arms above your head. Join both the palms and stretch your body upwards. This may offer release from back rigidity. Another exercise that you can do to hit back pain is take both your arms behind your back. Now try touching both your palms. This may dull rigidity in muscles and provide relief from back stiffness.

As a pregnant woman, your sleeping position is also a very important thing to consider. Medicare middle management advocate that pregnancy is a period to sleep on your side because sleeping on your back can finish up in back difficulty. When you sleep on your side, your back remains in a comfortable position. For added support, you may keep a pillow between your legs. In addition, you might also bend either or both of your knees for a relaxed position.

Most important thing to do is to remain cautious. Regardless that you sit or stand or walk, maintain proper posture and watch your step. Any unexpected movement may result in complications so you have to be really careful.

About the Author

To know more about Backache Exercises and Back Pain Treatments visit: http://www.backpaindetails.com/pain

Got Back Pain? Use Stretching Exercises to Get Relief!

2010-01-04T18:27:00.000+02:00

Back pain is an excruciating signal that you've done some damage to the muscles in that location, or possibly the tendons and ligaments that support the spine. With regard to obtaining release from the pain, you have various alternatives that you can try. Two of the most common ways to address the pain entail making use of analgesics, either over the counter or prescription strength, and doing some stretches to build up the muscles and increase your flexibility. By and large, you'll employ a combination of these two techniques for maximum results.

Using medicinal analgesics for pain management is critical to overcome the suffering of backache. Oftentimes, pain pills administered by your physician will involve muscle relaxants. These will reduce muscle stiffness, thus giving them an opportunity to mend at the same time as lowering the level of the distress that you're being afflicted with.

In conjunction with drugs, or occasionally as an alternative, a number of doctors recommend a rehabilitation regime involving stretches. Certain stretching exercises can contribute to the progression of mending the injured muscles, ligaments and tendons in your spine, and also make them stronger so as to avert trouble down the road.

As you carry out a regime of stretches for back pain, it's vital to do exercises that have been recommended by a specialist such as your doctor or a physiotherapist. You also have to do them with proper technique so you don't do further injury. For this reason your doctor will typically advise that you undertake a few sessions with a physical therapist so you can be taught to carry out the stretches properly under skilled direction.

Among the the most conventional stretches for back pain is a basic back stretch. This move is particularly helpful when undertaken when you first get up in the morning when your muscles have become tight because of being still all night long. A basic back stretch involves gradually bending forward from the waist while standing, with the hands pointing towards the floor. Only go as low as is comfortable; don't strain yourself and don't bend your knees. Then unhurriedly return to the erect stance. Do this again a few times. This exercise both stretches and strengthens the back muscles.

A different move you might want to consider is to stretch out on your back and bend your knees so that your feet are flat on the floor. Next, clasp one of your knees with both hands and draw it slowly towards your torso. Hold for a few seconds, then return to the starting posture. Do the same thing with the alternate knee.
These stretches can be incorporated into a daily stretching program so that you can avoid troubles with your back in the future.

About the Author

Stretching routines are an important component of overall fitness, and they can also be effective for managing the pain of a bad back. For example, sciatica stretches are highly regarded as the best way to manage that particular condition.

Treat Back Muscle Pain Relief Naturally

2010-01-04T18:19:00.000+02:00

There are times when all of our hard work leads to back pain. You may be tempted to seek out pain medications or muscle relaxers right away; but you may want to look into ways your back muscle pain relief can be treated naturally.

When you are the victim of back muscle pain, one little incident of straining can feel as if you are paralyzed with pain. Because the back area is essentially the supportive core of the entire body, even just a small injury can really feel like something major is wrong. This is why a lot of people automatically turn to powerful pain medications to find the quickest form of relief every time they feel a twinge of pain in the back area.

There is evidence that turning to this form of treatment every time pain is felt can actually cause more harm than good. Do not feel as if there is now nothing else you can do to treat your back pain besides pain medications. You may doubt that a natural treatment can even touch the pain you feel. You may be relieved to hear that sometimes natural treatments provide better back muscle pain relief than many other methods.

Now, you may be wondering what natural treatments are out there for you to give a try. If the pain you have been feeling is essentially muscular in nature, an ointment that is natural can be rubbed on the troubled area and may help ease your pain. You may wish to have another person massage the oil on your back with a massaging motion. Menthol and peppermint in the ointments can both relieve tension and help combat stiffness.

Along with this type of treatment, you can also try stretching techniques. This has long been used as one very effective back muscle pain relief method. You may want to try the kind of exercises that will not cause too much strain or tension and will not entail a great deal of bouncing or pulling. Within a few days of doing this, you may actually notice the gentle exercises help alleviate your pain completely.

Once you are in a position where you have found back muscle pain relief naturally, you will want to properly strengthen your back to help you keep pain from recurring. There are programs that help strengthen your core with muscle balance therapy. Pilates is also becoming more and more popular and it is a natural treatment for back muscle pain relief. Back pain relief exercises are low impact and can help you build a stronger core to better your back health overall.

If you turn out to be one of many out there who have trouble dealing with back muscle pain, remember you can find a natural treatment that may be much better for you than traditional prescription medications available. You can also use a natural method to help you avoid the negative side effects of medications. Before you call and make an appointment with your doctor, realize you back muscle pain relief can be treated naturally with a little rubbing of ointment, simple stretching and exercises.

About the Author

Charles Moore provides you with more information on back muscle pain relief. Visit Back Pain Relief Guide http://backpaininfoguide.com/back-pain-reviews/ for other back muscle pain treatment.

Back Pain and Exercise

2010-01-04T18:13:00.000+02:00

Common Characteristics of Back Pain

Back pain, which afflicts four out of five Americans at one time or another, is second only to headache as a common disorder characterized by pain. Pain in the upper spine may accompany an injury; however, for the overwhelming majority, the pain originates in the lower back, or lumbar region.

Recent studies indicate that fewer than 15 percent of cases of lower back pain are traceable to structural defects, such as ruptured disks, arthritis or tumors. In most cases, the disability arises from weakness of the musculature surrounding the spine. Therefore, the most important aspect of treatment for muscle-based back pain involves strengthening and protecting these supporting muscles. With a doctor's guidance, well-informed and motivated patients can carry out most of the treatment themselves.

How the Pain Originates

The spinal column is made up of 24 separate and nine fused vertebrae, held together with tough bands of tissue called ligaments. Nerve roots pass through openings at the side of each vertebra. Thus, a wrench of the back or a failure of muscular support may result in the painful "pinching" of a nerve. The sciatic nerve--which extends from the lumbar area into the buttock, leg and toes--is particularly vulnerable to pressure. (The condition known as sciatica is a frequent companion to lower back pain, usually associated with a ruptured disk.)

Pain also is generated when muscles go into spasm. While such spasms may occur as a protective reflex, they intensify discomfort by choking off circulation and setting up an inflammatory response. Stress of any kind--physical or psychological--may cause spasms in under-exercised muscles.

Basic Causes

Recurrent back pain--leading to the deterioration of the muscles supporting the spine--usually can be traced to a specific condition. These include--singly or in combination--a sedentary life style, obesity, poor posture and a general lack of muscular tone. The type of exercise taken by usually sedentary people often fails to strengthen muscles supporting the lower back. Indeed, such popular weekend sports ans tennis, golf and skiing may actually promote back problems.

Treating the Pain

Typically, acute low-back pain comes on suddenly and without apparent reason. Symptoms of sciatic nerve involvement--twinges, numbness, burning--may also be present. For such cases, a regimen of bed rest, hot baths and aspirin or a prescribed painkiller usually provides relief. A short course of muscle relaxants may be recommended. If sagging abdominal muscles need support, a girdle is helpful.

In about 90 percent of all cases, low-back pain subsides within two months. However, if the circumstances that caused it are not altered, it is likely to recur.

Preventing a Recurrence

As soon as possible after the acute pain subsides, exercises should be undertaken to strengthen muscles in the back and abdomen. A long-term weight-reducing plan may also be advised. Yoga, meditation and breathing exercises may help reduce tension and stress.

If your daily routine involves many hours of standing, check your posture in profile. Your chest should be raised, buttocks tucked in and stomach flat. Sedentary workers should have a chair with armrests,, support for the lower back, a movable upper section and an adjustment for height, so that feet can rest on the floor. When picking things up, bend at the knees only. If the object is heavy, hold it close to flexed abdominal muscles. Sports involving sudden body movements should be avoided in favor of walking, jogging, cycling and swimming.

Chronic Disabling Pain

When diagnostic tests determine that the cause of severe and unremitting back pain is nerve damage, tumor, arthritis or bone inflammation, therapy involves more extensive treatment, which may include surgery, drugs and physical therapy.

Very often, long-time sufferers from back pain of unidentifiable origin become "lower back cripples," limiting their activities and life style for fear of provoking pain. If the back becomes an excuse for avoiding responsibilities or confronting underlying problems, professional counseling should be considered.

Summing Up

Back pain is one of our most common health problems, but it can usually be resolved by proper exercise, heat, diet and other conservative measures. While 90 percent of all back pains dissipate within a few weeks, precautions should be taken to prevent their recurrence. Less frequent causes of lower back pain include arthritis, tumors and structural or neurological defects, which require clinical treatment.

About the Author

I am the owner and author of Hoodia Gordonii Side Effects. You can find the original article here: Back Pain and Exercise. If you'd like to read more of my articles, please visit my site!

7 Ways to Relieve Back Pain During Pregnancy

2010-01-04T17:09:00.000+02:00

Back pain, especially lower back pain, is exremely common during pregnancy due to the sheer number of physical changes that occur. Added weight means that the back has to support a larger load, especially if the woman was already overweight before the pregnancy. There is also a change in the woman's center of gravity triggers, pelvic changes, loose joints caused by pregnancy hormones, poor posture, and stress. All of these changes happen to the body rapidly causing pain and discomfort for many women.

However, it doesn't have to be this way. There are lifestyle changes and natural treatment options that can help women feel more comfortable while they are pregnant.

1. Exercise regularly
Regular exercise allows the back to stretch and relax, and stimulates circulation. This can be especially effective for a woman whose back pain is primarily caused by stress. There are even exercises that are geared towards pregnant woman. An added benefit is that regular exercise can also help your body prepare for child birth. Be sure to consult your doctor before starting a new exercise routine.

2. Wear flat, comfortable shoes
An obvious solution to back pain triggered by poor posture and standing for long periods of time is making sure to wear proper shoes. Shoes should support the arch of the foot and be low-heeled and comfortable. Often, pregnant women even have to go up a shoe size because of the swelling caused by the increase of blood and fluids in the body.

3. Do not sleep on your back
Sleeping on your back puts unnatural pressure on your spine because the added weight leans directly on the problem area. Sleeping on your side takes the pressure off your back. Ideally you should also place a pillow or cushion between your knees to give your body extra support while you sleep. It will make a tremendous difference the next day.

4. Pay attention to your posture
Poor posture is one of the leading causes of back pain for anyone. During pregnancy, women are prone to poor posture because of the extra weight they now carry in front of their body. Their body must adjust to its new form, and women should be particularly careful to keep their shoulders back and head up.

5. Acupressure
Acupressure is a form of alternative medicine, and a pregnant woman who chooses accupressure treatment should only be treated by a professional practitioner that specialized in dealing with pregnancy. The practitioner will know how to apply pressure to specific points on the woman's body to relieve her back pain. Used incorrectly, acupressure can put a woman into labor. Used properly, it can provide the ultimate pain relief.

6. Massage therapy
Massage therapy for pregnant women is growing increasingly popular. An experienced massage therapist will know precisely how to position a woman's growing body safely for the massage. The massage therapist can utilize special techniques to reduce swelling, stress, and back pain. Gentle massage can be performed by anyone but it is best to see a professional to get the most relief for back pain.

7. Chiropractic care
In addition to typical back adjustments, a chiropractor can offer professional advice for stretching exercises and posture techniques that a woman can practice at home. The chiropractor can also advise on proper support gear, and provide manipulation to massage muscles and "pop" the joints in place. A a doctor of chiropractic that has experience with pregnant women can provide relief for many pregnancy-related aches and pains. An experienced doctor will know how to take precautions to prevent unnecessary pressure on the abdominal area, while attaining maximum relief.

Dr. Karen Kim is a Long Beach Chiropractor at Chiropractic Neurology Center in Southern California. She is an experienced professional that treats women to help them attain and maintain optimal health during and after pregnancy. Find out more information about how a chiropractor can ease the pains of pregnancy online at http://www.neurochiro.com.

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