Stenosis - Back Pain Test

Stenosis back pain originates in the spinal canal itself. Stenosis occurs when the spinal canal narrows, and compresses the nerves inside it. This compression of the nerves can lead to stenosis back pain, numbness in the legs, and the loss of bladder or bowel control. If left untreated, stenosis back pain can eventually become paralysis.
It is estimated that approximately 400,000 Americans currently have spinal stenosis back pain. That number is expected to increase as Baby Boomers age.
Defining Stenosis Back Pain
You probably know that the spinal column protects your spinal cord, a bundle of nerves, from being injured. In spinal stenosis, the spine narrows in one or more of three places: space at the center of the spine; canals where nerves branch outward from the spine itself; a space between the spine's bones (vertebrae).
Stenosis back pain occurs when the narrowing puts pressure on the nerves inside the spinal column. Although this can occur in younger people, it is most often a complaint of those over 50 years of age.
Causes of Stenosis Back Pain
Spinal stenosis back pain can be caused by a number of factors.
1. Age is a primary factor. As we age, bands of supportive tissue in the spine may harden and thicken. Our bones and joints may enlarge as they age. We may get bone spurs on the spine - places where bone surfaces bulge outward.
2. Arthritis is another cause of spinal stenosis and accompanying stenosis back pain. Either osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis may be to blame. Osteoarthritis is the more common of the two. This type of arthritis usually is seen in middle-aged and older people, and does not go away. Osteoarthritis can cause the bone spurs described above. Rheumatoid arthritis is usually seen in younger people, and is not usually a cause of spinal stenosis back pain.
3. Inherited factors may also lead to stenosis and stenosis back pain. Some genetic conditions, such as a small spinal canal or curved spine, can cause spinal stenosis.
4. Other causes for your stenosis back pain could include calcium deposits, fluoride accumulation, or injuries.
Symptoms of Stenosis Back Pain
Stenosis back pain usually occurs in the neck or back. In addition to the stenosis back pain, you may feel pain down one leg, or numbness, weakness, cramping, and pain in legs or arms as the nerves are compressed.
Stenosis Back Pain Test Problem
The problem with tests for spinal stenosis is that the conditions shares symptoms with so many other disease. The result has too often been costly misdiagnoses and unnecessary back surgery, according to Andrew Haig, M.D., associate professor in the Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation at the University of Michigan Medical School.
The following 3 tests are used to diagnose the cause of stenosis back pain.
1. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) -radio waves to picture the spine
2. Computerized axial tomography (CAT) - X-ray series to picture the spine
3. Electromyogram (EMG)- a test that not only gives a picture of nerves, but also tests nerve function, showing if there is actual nerve damage
Best Stenosis Back Pain Test
Of the three, the oldest, Electromyogram (EMG) has been found to be the best. This test has been around as long as, or longer than the Baby Boomers themselves, but a study published in the January 2006 issue of "Spine" shows that it is by far the best of the three tests.
That study, done by the University of Michigan Health System, shows that the EMG test accurately determines the cause of stenosis back pain. As a result, low back pain is less likely to be misdiagnosed, as are other common neuromuscular conditions with similar symptoms. Back surgery undertaken to cure misdiagnosed stenosis back pain can be avoided with this stenosis back pain test.
Tests done in the U of M study by Dr. Andrew Haig and his colleagues showed a substantial difference between those who have spinal stenosis and those with other types of back pain. It showed that use of the EMG allows experts to clearly distinguish between spinal stenosis and low back pain.
"Most doctors think of EMG as a simple test and incorrectly believe that it is sensitive for nerve damage, but cannot differentiate spinal stenosis form neuromuscular disease," explains Haig. "But as this study shows, that's not the case. In fact, EMG is an excellent test for spinal stenosis and other neuromuscular disorders using strict evidence-based criteria." (Spine, Vol. 30, No. 23)







?2007, Anna Hart. Anna herself is a back pain sufferer, and can sympathize with your problem. She invites you to read more of her articles about back pain at http://www.backpainreliefblog.com Anna has posted additional articles on that site about the upper back, as well as articles that give information on a number of reasons for upper back pain.

The Truth Behind Back Pain Treatment

Most everyone has had some type of experience with back pain to some degree. Maybe you just hurt for moments or maybe it was just hours, but the majority of people have had some type of sensation of pain in their back at some point. Back pain treatment is important in the recovering stage from back pain. Sometimes it will heal on its own, but often the pain requires some type of help for just enduring it. There are many different options for back pain treatment and this article will explore the truth behind back pain treatment and how or if they help.

Back pain treatment doesn't always require going to the doctor. You can often use a heating pad to get the relief you need on a less permanent injury. Muscle strains and spasms can benefit from heat as the heat will tend to relax the muscle and give pain relief as it relaxes. It doesn't matter whether the pain is permanent or not, pain is pain and it hurts so just knowing that heat can help will opt you to explore some of the newer type heating pads. Warm water therapy is very helpful and that is why many people own a hot tub. This type of back pain treatment is good for the entire body.

One of the most obvious types of back pain treatment is the use of drugs of some type. If we are talking about an inflammation that has occurred, then just the use of an anti-inflammatory will help. The swelling causes pain and once you can relieve that, usually the pain will disappear. If it doesn't there are always more drastic measures such as pain pills, but the problem with pain pills is that they can become very addictive and you may tend to get hooked on them. Back pain treatment needs more than just pills.

An important form of back pain treatment is exercise. Exercising is very important not just to your overall health, but when you have an injury, it is important to keep the muscles in the back stretched instead of shrinking so healing can take place. It may hurt like the dickens, but if you want to try and prevent permanent pain you must make yourself exercise in spite of the pain. Back pain treatment may require a little pain if you are going to heal.

If you need more Back Pain answers then quickly head over to [http://the-health-information-network.com] where you will find helpful back pain tips, advice and resources including information on chronic back pain, lower back pain, and Back Pain Treatment information.

Treat, Relieve, Cure Back Pain Now

Ouch! Your back hurts. You'll go to a doctor if it doesn't let up soon, but meanwhile, what can you do to treat back pain? Better yet, since you don't want to simply treat it, what can you to relieve back pain? Wait a minute. What can you do to cure back pain - now?!

While back pain can be excruciating, it is common. It is one of the leading reasons people visit doctors each year. Add those who don't want to visit a doctor, and the numbers are staggering.

Question is: how can you truly cure back pain?

You Don't Want to Hear This!

My own doctor told me last week that the best way to cure back pain is to begin, and consistently maintain, regular exercises to strengthen core muscles.

After telling me that, he gave a short laugh, and added, "But most people don't want to hear that."

How about you? If my doctor is right, you probably don't want to hear that you can cure back pain with regular exercise. You would rather hear that...

* a new chair will cure back pain while you watch TV

* a new prescription drug will cure back pain with daily doses

* a month in bed (paid sick leave) will cure back pain

* you should not exercise at all

I'm sorry, but what you and I really need is exercise that specifically targets the core muscle groups that support our backs.

Exercises to Cure Back Pain

The Texas Back Institute tells us that research shows more than two days of inactivity is harmful when you have back pain. Lying in a bed or reclining chair will only cause your muscles to weaken and become less flexible. As you move around, exercise improves blood flow to discs, joints, and muscles. Exercise relaxes spasms that are causing you pain, and speeds healing.

You need to get up and get gentle exercise if you expect to cure back pain.

The following daily routine will go far toward helping you actually cure back pain and keep it from recurring.

* Morning Rising: Begin your day by getting out of bed with this exercise. Roll on one side. Gently swing your legs to the floor while pushing up with your arms. When you are in a sitting position, stand up. This exercise will remind you every morning of your desire to cure back pain forever.

* Warm-up: Warm up your back before beginning exercises or rushing around getting ready for your day. Bend at the waist, and let your arms hang toward the floor. Do not stretch or bounce. Simply bend and hang, feeling your back lengthen. Then reach slowly for the ceiling, gently stretching upward. A brief, relaxed walk will finish your warm-up.

* Six Exercises:

1. Slippery Heels - Lie on your back on the floor, legs straight. Slowly slide your left heel toward your body, knee bent upward. Then slide the heel back away from your body until your leg is straight again. Repeat 10 times for each leg.

2. Slippery Lap - Stand with your back touching a wall, feet 12" from the wall. Tighten abdominal muscles, hold, and slowly bend both knees, sliding downward until you form a lap. Hold 30 seconds, and slowly slide up again. Repeat 10 times.

3. High Heels - Stand facing a wall, about 18" away. Balance your weight evenly on both feet. Slowly lift up only your heels - as though wearing high heel shoes. Then lower your heels slowly back to the floor. Repeat 10 times for each foot.

4. High Legs - Lie on your back, left leg straight, right leg at right angle. Tighten abdominal muscles, and slowly lift straight leg 6 to 12 inches, keeping it straight. Hold 5 seconds, and slowly lower. Repeat 10 times for each leg.

5. Reverse High Legs - Do "high legs" while lying on your stomach on the floor. Hold for 10 seconds, and slowly lower the leg to the floor. Repeat 5 times for each leg.

6. Brake Pedals - Lie on your back on the floor, legs straight. Push toes away as though pushing on 2 brake pedals. Pull the toes back toward your body, as though letting up on the brake pedals. Work your brake pedals up and down. Repeat 10 times.

* Cool-down: Cool down before going on with your day. A brief, relaxed walk is all you need.

Additional Secrets to Cure Back Pain

You can cure back pain by adding these additional secrets to your exercise program. First of all, remember that you should see your health care provider to learn exactly what type of back pain you have, and whether home care is sufficient.

With your physician's approval, add these steps to cure back pain.

* If you must sit at a computer all day, sit with feet flat on the floor, or use a footrest to relieve back strain and cure back pain.

* Get up and move around for at least 5 minutes out of every hour.

* When standing for extended periods, shift your weight regularly.

* Wear shoes that have soft soles and low heels, preferably no more than 1.5 inches and square in shape. Place inserts in your shoes to correct any incorrect posture.

* Lose weight if you are too heavy. You can cure back pain more quickly if your muscles have less work to do.

* Avoid sitting on a thick billfold. A lot of money might buy back surgery, but you won't cure back pain by sitting on it or a stack of credit cards and photos.

* Bend at the knees, not at the waist, when lifting something heavy.

* When your doctor says you are ready, begin a program of aerobic exercise to strengthen those core muscles in your back and abdomen. Choose from activities such as jogging, cycling, or swimming.

Cure Back Pain with Mind over Matter

Recent research indicates that mental gymnastics can do much to cure back pain. Although my doctor may not want to hear this, it appears to be true. Published in the journal BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders, the study found that training the mind was just as effective as using more physical methods to deal with chronic lower back pain.

The secret is to consciously realize that pain does not necessarily mean harm. Learn about your pain and what causes it, allowing your brain to deal with the perceived pain.

As long as you try to avoid it, you cannot cure back pain. Talk to your physician and create an exercise program that is right for you and your pain.

? 2007, Anna Hart. Anna Hart invites you to read more of her articles about back pain at http://www.backpainreliefblog.com. Anna has done extensive research on back pain, its symptoms, causes, and treatment, and offers you the results of her research free of charge. If you are looking for more ways to treat or cure back pain, visit Anna often to see what new information she has posted.

What Is The Cause And Effect Of Chronic And Acute Low Back Pain

If you have ever suffered from low back pain you will know that it can be a very miserable experience. You may hurt so bad that you can't seem to do much of anything and it will set off the pain. It can get so severe, you want to tear your hair out. Low back pain can cause you to become someone you really aren't, if you don't control the pain level.

Pain can make you easily irritated and grouchy. It can cause depression which can make you want to isolate yourself from family, work and any other social activity. There are some things you can do to control the pain level and this article will talk about the different types of low back pain and how they can effect you and your loved ones.

There are two types of low back pain. One form is known as acute. This is a short term condition and will pass with time. It can be caused from numerous things such as a muscle spasm or herniated disc, but with time and treatment it will heal. The other form of low back pain is called chronic. It can last more than three months up to a lifetime. There are many things that can cause chronic low back pain that are similar to the acute causes such as herniated disc, or muscles spasms, but for some reason, these conditions don't heal quickly. It's a known fact that people can experience low back pain without any apparent reasons. Medically, the symptoms can't be explained, but the pain is very real to the person suffering.

Low back pain is one of the main reasons for missing work, and one of the leading causes for disability. Other causes for low back pain can be degenerative disc disease which can be a hereditary weakness in the spine. Obesity can also be a cause for back pain. With many Americans facing obesity these days it's no wonder that billions of dollars are spent on low back pain each year. Other causes of back pain can be stress, an uncomfortable bed and smoking. Did you know that smoking is a main cause for low back pain. That's right. Smoking causes a restriction in blood flow to the spine and can cause disc degeneration. It is important for blood to flow freely throughout the body because good blood flow promotes good cell growth, which provides healing to take place, not just from low back pain, but in the entire body.

There are many ways to treat low back pain and one of the first ways is to treat by medication, in order to relieve the pain. In order for someone to heal, they have to be able to relax. When we are tense or stressed, the muscles tend to tighten up which can cause blood flow to be restricted and not allow healing to take place. Other things such as the use of heat and cold can help inflammation of muscle tissue to be reduced. Some cases of low back pain may require surgery to repair or remove a piece of bone tissue that may have broken off from a disc. If you have low back pain and it isn't going away, you should seek medical attention because you can do more damage to the area the longer you wait. If you are experiencing numbness in the legs and feet along with low back pain, seek medical attention as without treatment, you can develop permanent damage to the nerves.

If you need more Back Pain answers then quickly head over to http://the-health-information-network.com where you will find helpful back pain tips, advice and resources including information on chronic back pain, and Low Back Pain information.

What is your Biggest Cause of Back Pain?

Back pain affects over 80% of the adult population. It is the cause of numerous days of work and time away from activity you enjoy. Back pain is rife in th community yet the biggest cause of your back pain is the most misunderstood issue.

Most of you would list muscle spasm as the biggest cause - but you would be wrong.

Others may believe it is joint stiffness, inflammation, or muscle weakness that is the biggest causes of back pain.

All of these are the mechanisms that create your back pain, they are not the cause of it. Causes may include injuries, falls, over use and over exertion. However these are also not the biggest causes of back pain.

So by now you may be wondering... what is the biggest cause of back pain?

The answer is all around you, it is gravity.

Yes, gravity is the biggest cause of back pain. It puts your muscles under pressure. It allows your discs to compress with time. It is also the biggest cause of spinal degeneration and joint degeneration.

So why is gravity the biggest cause of back pain?

From the moment you wake up, you either sit or stand during the day - unless you are a child or teenager. Children are actually smarter than adults - they don't try to fight gravity. They lie down more.

As you are upright, gravity stresses your body. You need to use muscles to hold your self erect. These muscles tire and then joints fail to move freely. This then allows the muscles to tighten further until muscle spasms etc occur.

Your posture at work, the time you spend at your desk, the bending and twisting you do - are all fighting against gravity. And gravity wins!

Gravity allows you to continually hold onto tension in your body. Your structural system tires out. At it tires then the normal day to day activity becomes more stressful. This in turn allows the minor falls, irritations, bumps and scrapes to cause back pain.

Gravity is the biggest cause of back pain. You can also help to fight it.

The solutions to gravity back pain are simple!

You need to lie down more, take a load off your spine and rest. Change your posture at work regularly. Get and get moving to remove strain from one position. But most of all you need to lie down more.

This may be hard to do at work. Bt you can fit it into your lunch breaks. Have a few minutes or more lying down. IT helps to stop the tension building up, it also helps to build up energy stores, freshens the mind and relaxes you.

When you get home live by the motto - if you don't have to sit or stand... don't!

Lie down on the couch, floor or bed to listen to music, read a book or watch TV. On the weekend spend time outside lying down on the grass or wherever. Each minute you spend lying down is time not fighting gravity. You start to balance out the time fighting versus not fighting gravity.

If you can achieve a balance where you spend less time fighting gravity than fighting it - you are winning. Gravity will not cause your joints to degenerate, muscles will not tire out, your discs will not compress.

All from lying down more.

Back pain is common today. Gravity is the biggest cause of back pain and is something you need to address. It can be done simply by creating more and lying down. Then your back pain should ease and be less of a problem.

Dr Graeme Teague is an expert in the structural field, and has been in practice since 1991. His newly launched web site The Back Pain Advisor strives to give you valuable and expert advice, tips and information on your back pain isues.

For more information on back stretches, just visit Back stretches - http://www.back-pain-advisor.com/back-stretches.html

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Back Pain Brings Bad News

1. My Back Pain started when I was injured in an accident or when I lifted heavy weights in wrong postures.

It is very much possible there is an overlap of Vertebra of the Back Bone (Spinal Cote). Such overlapping is called Spondy-lolis-thesis. Go to the Back Bone Exercises section and learn how to make our Back Bone healthy. Do these exercises on daily bases and rest for long period of time. Remember, less work and more rest will help you to Cure Back Pain. In the end, the last thing to do is to go and see the doctor if the Back Pain is too much or is not vanishing. But remember, this is the last option not the first one. I do not prefer any patient to eat medicines as to cure one thing, you are sacrificing too much. Medicines, especially when it comes to joints medicines or any medicine related to bones, have side effects. Medicines use for treatment of bones cause damage to the stomach. Please also read Back Pain related Newspapers in order to learn more.

2. I feel that my Back Pain is traveling down to my legs.

Well, it means that you have a misplaced Back Bone (Spinal Cote) Disk. The Back Bone is made up of many disks, all join together to make the Mighty Back Bone. In this case you have to Rest, Rest.... and Rest. I think you understand what I want to say here. You have to give as much rest to your Back Bone as possible. Do not work long hours and never to sit for long period of time. This is a very serious matter, so take it seriously because this problem can end up in a disaster. There is a stage of this Back Pain when the patients no longer have bladder or bowel control. In this situation, immediately consult a doctor. Do not delay; it is possible that there is some serious problem with your Kidney. Anyway, also consider to get in touch with Back Pain related Newspapers to keep your self up-to-date from current Back Pain News.

3. I have a Back Pain where my age is over 60.

Bad News, go at once to the hospital. This is not any joke, I am pretty much serious. If the Back Pain is started without any other reason than the one that your age is over 60, then its time for you to leave everything to rest in a bed in the hospital and take the medicines prescribed by the doctor. Looks like you are on a long trip to the Hospital. If you ignore your Back Pain, then in few days you are going to experience the most horrible nightmare that you have never seen. At this age, you do read Newspaper right? So, find the latest Back Pain Development News and New ways to prevent it.

4. I experience Back Pain with any movement.

Here we go again. The third Back Pain FAQ (above one) and this one, both are terrible. I wish no one have this kind of a Back Pain. If you are experiencing Back Pain in almost all movements or even more worst, if you experience Back Pain all the time, even in the bed, then this is very much serious. You most drive straight to the hospital and do a complete check up. Explain everything in detail to the doctor. The doctor must also check your kidneys too. This is very bad News for the person with above problem.

5. I have Back Pain when I sit too long or when I bend.

Now this is not as problematic as the above two matters are (FAQ 3 and 4). It is possible that you have a pulled muscle causing the Back Pain or may be the Pain is because of a misplaced Back Bone Disk. Anyway, it does not mean that you forget about Curing the Back Pain. You have to take this matter seriously as failing to do so can cause many long term problems. First of all, apply heat to the point where you feel the Pain. Heat does not mean any thing that's too hot; just apply any thing that can warm the Lower Back a bit. Rest as much as you can. Don't sit too long reading a Newspaper or a Magazine. There are Magazines which helps you do different exercises, read them; exercise can help in this situation. The process of Curing Back Pain can take few months. In the end, if the Back Pain is not getting better then contact a doctor at once.

6. My Back Pain come and go all the time.

Were you injured in the past? Do you remember any incident that may had hurt your Back Bone way back in your child hood? Try to remember any thing that may help you in the diagnoses of your Back Pain. As I mentioned before, do read latest updates in Newspapers because research is going on the cure and prevention of Back Pain. Its best in this situation that you consult a doctor but first do a flash back in your memory and see what could have happened to your Back Bone in the past because the doctor will surely ask this question so it is good that you are already prepared to answer his questions.

7. My Back Pain started in childhood.

Try to remember the root cause of the beginning of your Back Pain; this will help in analyzing what exactly is the cure that you require for your Back Pain. Please also read Back Pain related Newspapers in order to learn more. In this case, it's best to consult a doctor.

8. I think my Back Pain started with a Fever.

Back Pain can start if you have a fever. Most common reason for Back Pain with a fever is the common FLU. Get medication to get rid of the FLU; it will Cure the mighty Back Pain too. If this does not help in reducing the Back Pain then please refer to the 10th FAQ.

9. My Back Pain is one sided.

There is a 90+ chance that you have a serious Kidney problem. Please refer to the 10th FAQ. I saw a research in a Newspapers and it showed that more than 30 percent people with Back problem have a serious kidney problem.

10. I have a fever, Blood in my urine and it burns during the urination.

Well now we are talking. These are the symptoms that indicate DANGER. This is the worst situation, one can ever imagine. Your kidneys are not in a good shape. There is some serious infection in your kidneys which needs to be cured As Soon As Possible. It's also possible that there are stones in your kidneys. Surprised? Well these stones are not the one that you might be thinking they are; these stones are produced inside the kidneys for different reasons like, excessive use of Calcium can produce these stones. Immediately drive to the hospital and take a long leave from our office. Treatment can take some time.

11. My Back is stiff and sore.

Apply low heat to the affected area. Use anti inflammatory medicines; if there is no improvement then contact your doctor at once.

12. Are you Pregnant?

I have some Bad News for you. Back Pain starting for pregnant women is very common and more then 50% pregnant women are affected by Back Pain during the pregnancy period. Some times the Back Pain continues even after the delivery. Good care should be taken for the proper posture of the pregnant women to avoid Back Pain. Wrong postures are the root cause of all kind of Back Pains especially for pregnant women. Contact your doctor for further information.

13. My Back Pain is centered.

You have a slipped or over lapping Back Bone Disks. Have plenty of rest and learn about the proper standing, sitting and sleeping postures. You will find all this on this site. Contact your doctor in case the Back Pain is growing instead of minimizing.

14. My back Pain is running down towards the Legs.

Immediately contact your doctor. This is a very dangerous symptom. You can even loose control of the bleeder and even worse, you can lose control of any body movement; perhaps, all body movements. It's also possible there is some serious problem with your Kidneys. It's an Emergency, go to the doctor at once.

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Back Pain Exercises - The Best Remedy For Back Pain

Back pain exercises are much sought after these days because back pain is a common phenomenon amongst people under the age of 45 and can be rectified effectively only if the true cause behind the pain is identified. Barring a few exceptions, exercises for back pain are effective for all types of back pain, be it the pain in the lower back ore pain in the upper back. Exercises also provide a solution for back pain related to genetically or trauma related deformities and subsequent pain.

Causes of Back Pain

Before we understand about the exercises to relieve back pain, we should have an understanding of human spine and possible causes of back pain. Human body depends on the spinal column for structural stability and mobility. It is the spine which provides us the necessary support to bend, twist or move around. The spinal column is made up of 24 vertebrae which are placed one on another from the skull to the pelvis. The spinal column is tightly wrapped by muscles and ligaments. Now any type of injury in these muscles or ligaments can result in pain. You can rectify or reduce such back pains by carrying out proper back pain exercises.

Exercises- The Safest Cure For Back Pain

Backache usually is a result of the spasm of muscles supporting our spine. This occurs due to improper posture, or sudden movements or jerks or repetitive actions. Diseases such as osteoporosis, osteoarthritis, viral infection, and bladder or kidney infection, gynecological problems in women, tumors and trauma can also cause back pain. Excess body weight, wearing of improper shoes and carrying heavy weights can also result in back pain. The best remedy for backache occurring from these reasons is back pain exercises. This is mainly because exercises to relieve back pain are safe and free from any possible side effects that is a possibility with other treatments for back pain.

However, back pain exercises may not prove to be effective in cases where the pain is not caused by an improper posture or sudden movements, jerks or is accompanied by bowel or bladder control problems. In such cases, it is advisable that the person suffering from backache consults a physician and gets a proper treatment.

The best way to avoid back ache is to maintain a proper posture and keep your muscles well conditioned by undertaking proper back pain exercises. One should never bend at the waist or stoop to pick up an object. Instead, we should lower our body to the level of the object by bending our knees.

The most common back pain exercise is to stand straight or sit on a comfortable chair that provides adequate support to your back. You should avoid sitting or standing in a single posture for a long time. Even while sleeping, you should be careful as to the type of mattress being used. Slouching or leaning forward should be avoided at all times. Yoga and mediation go a long way in relieving back pain and are very good exercises.

Prevention, it is said is the best cure for back pain. You can avoid backache by undertaking back pain exercises on a regular basis. These exercises strengthen the muscles in the abdomen and the spinal area and ensure that there is adequate support to the spine. Wall slides, leg raises and leg swings are the best exercises and abdominal strengthening exercises prove to be effective in toning up our back muscles.

Asheesh Mani is the Online Editor of Pregnancy Period. He has developed this site to provide valuable information to people suffering from back pain during pregnancy. This site enumerates different causes and factors related to back pain, guides through the different rules of exercise during pregnancy and suggests exercises for treatments of different types of back pain. The site is a free online resource for pregnancy back pain and its remedies. The visitors can also find valuable information and reviews about the different equipments and therapies for pregnancy back pain relief. Visit Pregnancy Back Pain for more information.

Back Pain Relief - Getting Past the Pain

When a person has back pain, they are searching for relief. If you suffer from this trying condition, relax. Back pain relief can be found. Today, many solutions exist to allow patients to get back into a routine of living with a healthy back. The back is an amazing engineering wonder that can be so strong and flexible. When you view your back in this way, in a positive light, it can bring you more joy than pain.

It's the muscles of your back that determine the health of your spine. That means that keeping your back muscles strong, flexible and balanced is the key to receiving back pain relief. Because so many millions of Americans are looking for back pain relief, it seems that it is a condition that has no cure. Some of the realities of why so many have troublesome backs are lack of appropriate exercise, a sedentary lifestyle and no energy to change current prescribed therapies to revive the back. Stretching, targeted massage and range of motion exercises, however, have shown to offer all sorts of back pain relief. In addition, a healthy diet, stress management and exercise can show you that your back can be healthy. Combined with the advice of your physician and any medications, you can find back pain relief.

Getting Past the Pain

Pain is a healthy protective response your body uses to tell you that something isn't quite right in the body. It tells you that an area needs checking out and fixing. Pain tells us that we need to take care of ourselves. When a pain receptor is activated, it sends a signal to the brain that an injury or other problem has occurred. Most of the pain receptors in the back are located in muscle tissue. When a muscle is strained, overworked or injured, or possibly spasming and knotted due to tension, you are made aware of it with the impulses sent to the brain. If you are not made aware of it because your brain is too busy at the time, the pain may show up later when you are not expecting it. When the pain lasts longer than three days and prevents you from conducting your normal daily activities, you should see a doctor for diagnosis. Much can be obtained when a good doctor takes a careful history of the onset of the problem, the characteristics of the problem, reflexes and pinprick tests, and a few simple pushing, pulling or stretching exercises. When the pain is something you have encountered before, that is when you may use some of the techniques below for back pain relief.

Attend to those Muscles

Because 95% of lower back pain reported is "nonspecific," that is, not related to serious underlying medical conditions such as disease, infections or fractures, muscles are the first place considered for back pain relief. Muscles don't start to hurt for no reason, so something must be causing that pain. Reducing the pain is the first step. Over-the-counter pain reducers and anti-inflammatory medications are very helpful to take the edge off of an injury. Next, the physical damage should be addressed. Rest of the back is important, and should be situated in a comfortable position for 2-3 days. Ice is a great back pain relief when used with caution. No more than 20 minutes at a time, every other hour. After the third day, heat may be applied, again, no more that 20 minutes once every two hours. During this period, it is important to not remain immobile. This can cause stiffness and lengthen recovery. Slowly moving the back in normal positions such as sitting upright, standing and slight twisting if tolerated is recommended. Deep massage and designated exercises to pinpoint the pain are necessary to get the back into pain free living. Targeted massage will disrupt the adhesions and chemical bonds that hold the back muscles in pain. Depending on your condition, specific exercises will stretch and rebuild the muscles causing pain that produce pain-blocking impulses. Back supports are also designed to hold your back in position and support your back as you recover.

Many books have been published that outline both massage and stretching techniques for back pain relief. Pilates, Yoga and Tai Chi all emphasize control of the body while stretching and building muscles at the same time. Other non-invasive techniques for back pain relief include physical therapy, rehabilitation and sports medicine, which all emphasize a core strength of the back and abdomen to strengthen those muscles. The exercises learned in this therapy must be followed after the sessions to maintain a pain-free back.

More Serious Conditions

Sometimes back pain can come from more serious conditions. If you have suffered recent trauma, have a history of osteoporosis, cancer, diabetes or kidney complications, or have pain that is worse when lying down or at night, have bowel or bladder issues or unexplained fever or weight loss or gain, you must seek back pain relief from a qualified medical professional. The good news is that less than two percent of neck and back pain complaints are attributable to a serious cause.

If you suffer from chronic back or neck pain, the Spine Center at Florida Hospital Fish Memorial offers back and neck pain relief. http://www.TalkBacktoPain.com

If you are looking for additional information about chronic back pain read http://hubpages.com/hub/The-Marvelous-Amazing-Back

Back Pain Solutions Without Surgery

Acute back pain may begin suddenly and usually lasts around 3 months. Chronic back pain sometimes lasts throughout life.
The most common back pain is low back pain (LBP). It is is often described as sudden, sharp, persistent, or dull pain felt below the waist. LBP is very common and affects the majority of people at some point during their life. Up to 70%--85% of all people have back pain at some time in their lives. LBP is the most common cause of a limitation of activity in people younger than 45 years of age. It is the second most frequent reason for visits to a physician, and the third most common indication for surgery. It is the fifth-ranking cause of hospital admissions and is one of the leading causes of disability.
Low back pain is most commonly caused by muscle strain associated with heavy physical work, lifting or forceful movement, bending or twisting, awkward positions, or standing in one position too long. Any of these movements can exacerbate a prior or existing back disorder. Other conditions that can cause low back pain include spinal stenosis, arthritis (osteoarthritis), spinal infection (osteomyelitis), spinal tumors (benign and malignant), spondylolisthesis, and vertebral fractures (e.g. burst fracture).
Low back pain is either acute or chronic. Acute LBP may begin suddenly with intense pain usually lasting fewer than three months. Chronic pain is persistent long-term pain, sometimes lasting throughout life. Even chronic pain may present episodes of acute pain. Other symptoms include localized pain in a specific area of the low back, general aching, and/or pain that radiates into the low back, general aching, and/or pain that radiates into the low back, buttocks and leg(s). Sometimes pain is accompanied by neurological symptoms such as numbness, tingling, or weakness. Neurological symptoms requiring immediate medical attention include bowel or bladder dysfunction, groin or leg weakness or numbness, severe symptoms that do not subside after a few days, or pain prohibiting everyday activities.
Pain felt in the low back is not always indicative of a spinal problem. A thorough physical and neurological assessment may reveal the cause of the low back pain. The physical examination begins with the patient's current condition and medical history. Examination of a patient with low back pain involves examining the patient's range of spinal motion while standing straight, bending forward, and to the side. Asymmetry, posture, and leg length is noted. Methodical palpation of the spine can reveal muscle spasm, possible bony displacement, and tender points. Abdominal palpation is performed to determine if the cause of low back pain is possibly organ related (e.g. pancreas). The neurological assessment evaluates weakness, absence of reflexes, tingling, burning, pain, diminished function, and other signs that may indicate nerve involvement.
If infection, malignancy, fracture, or other risk factors are suspected, routine lab tests may be ordered. These tests may include complete blood count (CBC), erythrocyte sedimentation (ESR), and urinalysis. In some cases electrodiagnostic studies such as electromyography (EMG) or nerve condition velocity (NCV) are performed to confirm a diagnosis or localize the site of nerve injury. Plain radiographs (x-rays), CT Scan, and/or MRI studies are performed when fracture or neurological dysfunction is suspected. A MRI represents the gold standard in imaging today. A MRI renders high-resolution images of spinal tissues such as the spinal cord and intervertebral discs. X-rays are still the imaging methods of choice to study the bony elements in the low back. The results of the physical and neurological examinations combines with test results are carefully evaluated to confirm a diagnosis.
Most patients with low back pain are treated without surgery. A conventional treatment plan may include bed rest for a day or two combines with medication to reduce inflammation and pain. Medications recommended by the physician are based on the patient's medical condition, age, other drugs the patient currently takes, and safety. The first choice for pain relief is often nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). These drugs should be taken with food to prevent stomach upset and stomach bleeding. Muscle relaxants may provide relief from muscle spasm but are actually benign sedatives, which often cause drowsiness. Narcotic pain relievers are prescribed for use during the acute phase and often for chronic pain management in appropriate patients.
Other modalities to treat low back pain might include physical therapy (PT), transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulator (TENS) trial, ultrasound therapy, acupuncture and massage therapy. A managed PT program can help build muscle strength and flexibility, improve mobility, coordination, stability and balance, and promote relaxation. Patients who participate in a structured physical therapy program often progress to wellness more rapidly than those who do not. This includes low back maintenance through a home exercise program developed for the patient by the physical therapist.
Although the number of spinal surgeries done every year is on the rise, it is rarely required to treat low back pain. Surgery may be considered if the patient is experiencing bowel or bladder dysfunction, increased nerve impairment, progressive weakness, incapacitating pain, or spinal instability. The surgical procedure depends on the diagnosis or the cause of low back pain. To prevent low back pain, first and foremost, follow the treatment plan outlined by the physician. To enhance recovery from an episode of low back pain, or to help prevent future exacerbation, try to maintain good posture, be consistent in a home exercise program, and eat sensibly to maintain proper body weight.







Hemant Yagnick, M.D., is an Interventional Pain Specialist and Medical Director of the Walton Pain Center in Augusta, GA. Dr. Yagnick believes that chronic pain is a complex medical condition influenced by biological, physical, behavioral, environmental and social forces. His new two-week comprehensive inpatient program helps patients receive relief from pain while becoming trained in coping techniques, speeds up their return to work and improves their quality of life. Dr. Yagnick earned his medical degree from JN Medical College and Hospital. He completed his residency in anesthesiology and an Interventional Pain Fellowship at Mississippi Medical Center in Jackson, MS. For more information visit http://www.wrh.org

Chronic Back Pain

I had been to three different physicians. The car accident in 1990 had left me with terrible back pain. The only option offered to me was prescription medication. For three years I lived with chronic pain - 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

The prescription drugs helped relieve some of the discomfort, but I had to stop taking them when I began getting sick to my stomach - which was often worse than the pain itself. Time and again I thought, "This can't be the only choice. There must be another alternative."

It wasn't until 3 years later that I heard about magnetic therapy from a friend, and decided to try it. With nothing to lose, I used a magnetic pad on my back during the day and slept on a magnetic mattress pad every night. Much to my surprise, after two weeks my back felt much better. After a few months, the pain was completely gone!

My wife, who had a back problem caused by herniated disks, woke up every morning with pain and stiffness. Not long after sleeping on the magnetic pad, the stiffness began to subside, and she was soon waking up pain-free as well.

Although skeptical at first, I was amazed at the effectiveness of magnetic therapy, and began to intensely investigate the field of biomagnetics. Since my initial experience, I have had the pleasure of helping many people achieve similar results, enhancing the quality of life of those suffering from chronic conditions and injuries.

Now I'd like to take the opportunity to help those of you who may be suffering from chronic back pain, and to tell you how to better prevent it.

Back pain is the number one form of pain experienced by people in the U.S. It accounts for 20% of all injuries and illnesses in the workplace, and is responsible for as much as $50 billion in diagnosis and treatment each year [1]. The National Institutes of Health estimate that 4 out of 5 Americans will experience back pain at some point in their lives. Not a pretty picture from any standpoint.

The majority of back pain occurs in the lumbar region of the spine [2]. Here, most of your body's weight is placed on the lowest 5 of the 24 vertebrae (bones) that make up the spine. Considering all the other muscles, tendons, ligaments, joints, disks, and major nerves that are also a part of or connected to the spine, it's no surprise that there are so many ways to injure your back as you twist and bend them [3].

Pain is considered chronic if it's recurring, lasts more than three months, and can seemingly be stimulated by any small movement (for whatever reason) [4]. In the 21st century, we're finally realizing that drugs and surgery are not always the answer for treating chronic pain or other musculoskeletal conditions & injuries.

The future lies in an integrative approach to promoting the body's own healing ability by using noninvasive, safer treatments. Acupuncture, massage therapy, chiropractic and osteopathic care, and certain physical therapy exercises are just a few options to help with back pain.

Following an individualistic approach to treatment is key. A particular therapy that may work for one person may not work as well for another. Often it's necessary to try a combination of treatment methods to begin feeling significant improvements.

For true recovery of back injuries and disease, pain and inflammation need to be reduced, proper function and strength restored, and further injury prevented [4]. With this in mind, let's discuss how magnetic therapy can help.

One of the primary benefits of magnetic therapy is the reduction of inflammation. Localized inflammation following an injury is a natural protective reaction. It creates an imbalance in sodium and potassium ion (charged particle) concentrations at a cellular level. As a result, fluid accumulates in the cells, causing the injured tissue to become inflamed. (Think of it as retaining water after eating salty food.)

If there's no intervention, the body will eventually heal itself and the inflammation will subside. However, this process can be very slow and painful. Because of this, treatments that can safely speed the overall process are needed, particularly in the case of chronic conditions like arthritis.

Applying a bio-north magnetic field safely rebalances electrochemical ion concentrations. Excess fluids and toxins are flushed from the cells and removed through the lymphatic system. As a result, healing time is often reduced by as much as 50%.

Since major nerve bundles run through the spine, it's obvious why back pain is so common. Pain is caused by an electrochemical signal sent to the brain. The normal electric potential of a neuron (nerve cell) is around 70mV when in a resting state. When injured, a neuron's charge becomes positive due to a shift in chemical ion balances. This triggers a pain signal to be sent to the brain.

Applying a bio-north (negative polarity) magnetic field lowers a neuron's electric potential, bringing it closer to its normal, negative state. As a result, the pain signal diminishes faster, and in most cases, will eventually stop.

Another important goal when recovering from back injuries is restoring mobility. Magnetic therapy helps relax muscle tissue, thereby increasing flexibility and reducing the incidence of muscle spasms.

About four years ago, researchers in Italy tested the effects of a magnetic seating system on several volunteers. Each person participated by either driving or remaining seated at a computer workstation for prolonged periods, both with and without the magnetic system.

"The results showed a decreased myoelectric (neuron) activity both at shoulder and lumbar level by using the magnet based sitting system for prolonged seated work tasks...The system appears to be an effective tool in preventing muscle contractures secondary to prolonged, constrained positions" [5].

Because it can be so difficult and painful to move, many people feel they need to rest for a few days after injuring their back. But did you know that bed rest should really be minimized or avoided? According to David Lehrman, M.D. (chief of orthopedic surgery at St. Francis Hospital and founder of the Lehrman Back Center in Miami, FL), "for every week of bed rest, it takes two weeks to rehabilitate" [3].

A 1995 study in Helsinki, Finland found that out of 186 subjects, those who went about their daily activities as tolerated had greater flexibility and less pain than those who underwent backmobilizing exercises. The *slowest* recovery was seen in subjects that were prescribed two days of bed rest [6].

While an interesting fact, it's one that some of us may grumble about. Bear in mind we still have to sleep and give our bodies a chance to heal and recuperate. As I found out years ago, sleeping on the proper magnetic mattress pad will help speed the healing process and can significantly reduce chronic pain over time.

Back in 1990, a 12month clinical test on the effects of magnetic mattress pads was conducted in Tokyo, Japan. The study, led by Dr. Kazuo Shimodaira, involved 431 subjects. 375 of them received full-sized magnetic pads and the remaining subjects received sham mattress pads for control. (Each magnetic pad contained 124 permanent ferrite magnets with field strengths of 750950 Gauss.)

Here are the results of the yearlong test:

On average, 53.3% of the subjects realized the effect of the magnetic mattress pad within 3 days, and over 70% within 5 days. What's more is that thorough testing for side effects was conducted and none were found [7].

(Note: The magnetic mattress pads used in this study did not produce very strong magnetic fields. As stronger magnetic fields are more effective, a higher energy pad would improve results even further.)

Supporting these findings, a 1997 Johns Hopkins pain center treatment study compared magnetic therapy for chronic pain with a placebo therapy. It concluded that people using the magnetic therapy showed a dramatic improvement, whereas the placebo group improved only minimally. Again, there were no side effects detected [8].

Since the vast majority of adults are not in "ideal" physical condition, the risk of back injury for them is greatly increased.

If you're out of shape and are planning an activity that requires lifting, bending or twisting, it's a good idea to take steps that can help prevent injury in the first place. Magnetic therapy is an excellent way of accomplishing this.

There are three primary actions that take place when using magnetic therapy for prevention. The first two are its ability to increase circulation and to relax muscles. The effects are similar to warming up and stretching before a strenuous workout. It's really the third action that sets magnetic therapy apart from anything else though. Magnetic therapy can effectively control energy flow along the body's acupuncture meridians (energy channels).

Placing a magnetic pad or support over an area channels the body's energy directly to that location. Increased energy availability, combined with improved circulation, significantly extends the amount of time that one can exert themselves before muscle fatigue sets in. In turn, this reduces the likelihood of muscle strain.

The combination of improving blood flow, relieving muscle tension, and reducing pain makes magnetic therapy ideal for treating back conditions and preventing further injury. While effective on its own, magnetic therapy is also an excellent adjunct to other treatments. Whether chiropractic, acupuncture, therapeutic massage, or another method, it can help improve and prolong a treatment's positive results.

The next time you're out and about, make use of a high-energy magnetic support or back pad. It's a simple and effective way to continue through the day with less pain and a greater range of motion. Trust me. Your back will thank you!

SOURCES:

1 Centers for Disease Control - National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, June 19, 1999.

2 Pain Central: What Causes Back Pain?

3 Pain Foundation: Back Pain

4 National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke: Low Back Pain Fact Sheet

5 PubMed: Efficacy of a chair with magnets in the prevention of musculoskeletal disorders caused by prolonged sitting.

6 PubMed: The treatment of acute low back pain - bed rest, exercises, or ordinary activity?

7 Summary of a 12month double-blind, clinical test of magnetic mattress pads. Kazuo Shimodaira, M.D. Tokyo Communications and Kouseikai Suzuki Hospitals, Tokyo, Japan. 1990.

8 "Use of magnetic therapy for chronic pain" by Joseph Kandel, M.D. and David B. Sudderth, M.D. The Arthritis Solution.

TIPS & GUIDELINES FOR A HEALTHIER BACK

The National Institutes of Health provides guidelines for maintaining a healthier back. Following these and a few other tips will greatly increase your chances of preventing further injury while strengthening your back muscles.

When Standing:

o Keep your weight balanced on your feet. Your back supports weight most easily when curvature is reduced.

o Don't slouch when standing or sitting. (Keep your hands lightly clasped behind your lower back. This improves posture for your neck, shoulders and upper back, and reduces muscle tension.)

o Wear comfortable, low-heeled shoes.

When sitting:

o Make sure your work surface is at a comfortable height for you.

o Sit in a chair with good lumbar support and proper position/height for the task. (Use a pillow, rolled towel, or lumbar cushion if needed.)

o Switch sitting positions often and periodically take a short walk or light stretch to relieve tension and restore blood circulation.

o If you must sit for a long period of time, rest your feet on a low stool or a stack of books.

When lifting:

o Don't try to lift objects too heavy for you!

o Pull in your stomach muscles, keep your head down and in line with your straight back, and lift with your legs.

o Keep the object close to your body.

o Do not twist when lifting.

o Do not carry an object in one hand if it causes you to lean to one side. (Use both hands, or carry an additional item to balance the load.)

Exercise:

o Always warm-up and stretch before exercise or other strenuous activity.

o Following a prolonged period of inactivity, begin a program of regular lowimpact exercises. (Ask a physician or orthopedist for recommended exercises appropriate for your age and requirements.)

o Speed walking, swimming, or stationary bike riding for 30 minutes a day can increase muscle strength and flexibility.

o Yoga or Tai Chi can help stretch and strengthen muscles, and improve posture.

Everyday habits:

o Maintain proper nutrition and diet to reduce and prevent excessive weight (especially around the waist area).

o If you smoke, quit. Smoking reduces blood flow to the lower spine and causes spinal disks to degenerate.

Therion Research

Your source for magnetic therapy news, research, and natural pain relief

Bruce Spiegler is a registered magnetic therapist and holistic health practitioner. He can be reached at TherionResearch.com - A provider of safe, natural magnetic therapy solutions for chronic pain management, sport?s injuries, sleep disorders, and natural healing.

What Is Causing My Back Pain ?

Lower back pain is one of the leading reasons people in the United States visit their doctors. It will inhibit the lives of millions of Americans this year. In fact, an average four out of five adults will experience low back pain at some point in their lives. So the question, "What is causing my lower back pain?" is not uncommon.

Lower back pain can be excruciating. It can be caused by a large variety of injuries or conditions, such as:

* lower back muscles may be strained

* discs between the vertebrae may be injured

* large nerve roots extending to arms and legs may be irritated

* smaller nerves that supply the lower back spine may be irritated

* joints, ligaments, or even bones may be injured

When lower back pain occurs with other symptoms such as fever and chills, a serious medical condition may be present. You should see a doctor immediately.

Three categories of lower back pain

Your lower back pain will fall into one of three categories, which your doctor bases on your description of the pain.

1. Axial lower back pain - mechanical or simple back pain

2. Radicular lower back pain - sciatica

3. Lower back pain with referred pain

1. Axial Lower Back Pain

Axial lower back pain is the most common of the three. It is felt only in the lower back area with no pain radiating to other parts of the body. It is sometimes called mechanical back pain or simple back pain.

* Description: Axial lower back pain can vary greatly. It may be sharp or dull, constant or intermittent. On a scale of 1 to 10, you may rate its intensity #1 or a full #10. It may increase with certain activity - when playing tennis, for example. It may worsen in certain positions - such as sitting at a desk. It may or may not be relieved by rest.

* Diagnosis: Axial lower back pain might be diagnosed by you rather than your physician. You know it started when you were helping a friend move a heavy couch. On the other hand, it may be your doctor who determines that you have strained or otherwise damaged back muscles, have a degenerated disc, etc.

* Treatment: The cause of your axial lower back pain does not matter when it comes to treatment. You will want to rest for a day or two. Follow this by gentle back pain exercises and stretching. If you have more pain after exercise, use a heating pad on low or medium setting. Take an appropriate over-the-counter pain medication. Follow your doctor's advice.

* Prognosis: Symptoms of axial lower back pain disappear with time, and about 90% of patients recover within four to six weeks. If you do not feel better within six to eight weeks, additional testing and/or injections may be needed to diagnose and treat the source of the pain.

* Caution: If your pain is chronic, or so severe that it awakens you during the night, see your doctor.

2. Radicular Lower Back Pain

Radicular lower back pain is commonly referred to as sciatica. It is felt in the lower back area, thighs, and legs.

* Description: Radicular lower back pain often begins in the lower back, and then follows a specific nerve path into the thighs and legs. Your leg pain may be much worse than your back pain. It is often deep and steady. It may readily be reproduced with certain activities and positions, such as sitting or walking.

* Diagnosis: Radicular lower back pain is caused by compression of the lower spinal nerve. The most common cause is a herniated disc with compression of the nerve. Other causes might be diabetes or injury to the nerve root. If you had previous back surgery, scar tissue may be affecting the nerve root. Elderly adults may have a narrowing of the hole through which the spinal nerve exits.

* Treatment: Conservative treatment is the best place to begin. Rest for a few days in a bed or chair. Follow this by gradual introduction of gentle exercises specifically for back pain relief. Follow your exercise with additional rest, applying a heating pad on low to medium setting. Soak daily in Epsom salts baths. Take an appropriate over-the-counter pain medication. Your doctor may want to use selective spinal injections.

* Prognosis: Symptoms of radicular low back pain may decrease with the conservative treatment outlined above. Give your back and legs six to eight weeks to improve. If surgery is needed after that, it typically provides relief of the leg pain for 85% to 90% of patients. The back pain itself is more difficult to relieve.

* Caution: If an MRI or CT-myelogram does not definitely confirm nerve compression, back surgery is unlikely to be successful.

3. Lower Back Pain with Referred Pain

Lower back pain with referred pain is not as common as axial or radicular back pain. This pain, which does not radiate down the thighs and legs, may be caused by the same conditions that cause axial lower back pain.

* Description: You will usually feel referred pain in the low back area, radiating into your groin, buttocks, and upper thigh. The pain may move around, but it will rarely go below your knee. It often is an achy, dull pain. It tends to come and go. Sometimes it is very sharp, but other times it is only a dull sensation. It can be caused by the identical injury or problem that causes simple axial back pain. Often, it is no more serious.

* Diagnosis: It is very important to have a physician determine whether your pain is lower back pain with referred pain or radicular lower back pain, since the treatment varies considerably.

* Treatment: Once you know for sure that yours is lower back pain with referred pain, you can follow the treatment for axial lower back pain.

* Prognosis: Symptoms of lower back pain with referred pain disappear with time, usually within four to six weeks. If you do not feel better within six to eight weeks, ask your physician if additional testing and/or injections are needed.

* Caution: If your lower back pain is chronic, or so severe it awakens you during the night, you should see your doctor.

You will want to visit http://www.backpainreliefblog.com for more detailed information about lower back pain. Packed with articles about many kinds of back pain, Back Pain Relief Blog offers practical, down-to-earth advice on how to care for your back. Find back pain exercises to avoid back pain and to heal your aching back. Learn what natural remedies are available for back pain relief.

2007? Anna Hart. Read Anna's other articles about the causes of back pain at http://www.backpainreliefblog.com for more answers to your questions about lower back pain and its causes.

Back Pain: Its Types and Treatments

Are you fed up with taking all the treatments for your back pain which you feel do not work? Are you a constant patient of physical therapists, chiropractors? Is your back pain causing you distress and trouble because you can not do the activities you wish you could do? Have you been advised surgery to correct your back's structural abnormalities?

Back pain may be classified into two types: acute or short term, and chronic. It the low back pain is short-term, it is most probably due to lower back trauma. Certain disorders such as arthritis may also cause acute back pain. Trauma such as sports injury, vehicular injury, and injuries incurred around the house may also result to back pain.

Back pain may range from simple muscle ache to stabbing pain which results to limit in a person's flexibility and range of motion. The person suffering from back pain may also be unable to stand straight. If the back pain persists for over three months, the back pain is classified as chronic. It is usually progressive and the cause is normally difficult to pinpoint.

Surgery is not usually the mode of treatment for back pain. Over-the-counter pain relievers helps in the reduction of discomfort along with the intake of anti-inflammatory medications which helps reduce inflammation. Restoration of function is the main goal of treatment as well as restoration of the strength to the patient's back. The treatment also aims to stop recurrence of the back pain.

Back pain may be caused by various low back injuries. These injuries include muscle strain, muscle spasm, ligament sprain, problems with joint or slipped disk, and using your back muscles in doing new activities such as lifting heavy furniture or working on your garden. Slipped disk is caused by the nerves bulging or pressing between the bones, which usually occurs when lifting. Back pain is fairly common when caused by such activities.

Some people opt for the application of cold and hot compresses to relieve patients of back injury. These compresses are done because they may help reduce inflammation and relieve the patient of pain. Mobility is also significantly increased by certain exercises, and strengthen the muscles of the back and abdomen. These exercises can be found online, or may be recommended by your doctors and chiropractors. In extreme cases, surgery is recommended to help stop back pain and prevent serious muscle injuries. But surgery is done usually as a last resort, and if the cause of the back pain is anatomical. Some physicians say that back pain can also be merely psychological with some patients. It means that the patient perceives the back pain only when there is no structural abnormality present in the patient's body.

Individuals suffering from back pain should seek the help of a physician to evaluate the back pain if the pain persists for ore than 72 hours. The physician will also prescribe the appropriate medications to relieve the patient of the symptom, or may also advise the patient to undergo surgical procedures if need be. He may also recommend exercises that would be less straining to the back, and will help maintain proper posture while lifting objects. Heavy lifting, repetitive motion and improper posture may also cause back pain. A person's work might also predispose an individual to developing back pain. Furniture and tools that are designed to provide protection to the body against injury and help maintain a healthy back are available for use at home or at work.

It would be necessary to consult the help of a qualified physician promptly when you feel the pain extends to your leg on your knee area. Numbness of the leg, groin, rectal area, and foot is also a cause of concern and should be told to a doctor as well as development of nausea, vomiting, fever, and stomach pain. Loss of bladder/bowel control occurring with back pain is also warning problem that necessitates expert evaluation. Back pain that occurs right after injury or trauma should also be evaluated through physical examination as well as imaging and other diagnostic procedures, more so when the patient suffers from such intense pain that movement is severely hampered.

There are other risks as you sit in front of that computer but it would be to much to write about in this article, so if you would like to learn more about other risks such as:

Eye strain

RSI (Repetitive Stress Syndrome)

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Constant Head Aches

Dizziness

Breathing Problems

Difficulty Concentrating

You can learn all about this in the book: "The Painless PC"

Hege Crowton is establishing herself as an expert copywriter. She is known for doing in-depth research before writing her articles. Many of her articles are posted on http://www.ezinecrow.com and she also does a lot of writing for http://www.CrowSites.com

Copyright 2005 HealthCrow.com

Causes of Lower Back Pain - For People Who Want to Learn More, But Don't Know Where to Start

CAUSES OF BACK PAIN

Considering the fact that the majority or between 70 and 90 percent of the population will experience some sort of back pain at one time or another, knowledge about back pain relief is certainly welcome, appreciated and a popular topic. One of the best ways to begin learning about back pain relief is by understanding the basics of back pain: what causes it, how it's diagnosed, what treatments are available, how to manage the pain, etc.

Most references to back pain focus on lower back pain in the lumbar spinal region. However, back pain causes in no particular order are:

A. Accidents or injuries leaving muscle pain

B. Osteoarthritis with deteriorating cartilage

C. Osteoporosis with bone loss / fracture

D. Fibromyalgia

E. Major conditions like cancer

Muscle, ligament and tendon problems are generally at the root of the pain problems along with some weakness in the lower back. Other body parts in the region can also be associated like bones and small joints.

When no specific cause is apparent, the term NSLBP (nonspecific low back pain) is used. Any number of reasons for this pain can include degenerative disk disease, psychological issues, systemic disease, facet syndrome (similar to pinched nerves symptoms), herniated disk, spondylolisthesis or the forward displacement of one of the lower lumbar vertebrae over the vertebra below it or on the sacrum. Other factors could be spinal stenosis or constriction or spondyloarthropathy (disease affecting spinal joints).

Let's take a look at each of these and what pain relief solutions are available.

DEGENERATIVE DISK DISEASE - The degeneration of vertebral disks is a natural part of the aging process. What often happens though, is that when the narrowing of the disk space combines with the nociceptors, sensory receptors that respond to pain, in the outer annulus (in the disk space outside the nucleus) or dorsal root ganglion (spinal nerves) that become heightened, the result can be pain, although not always. Sometimes pain can be felt by some people, and other times not. For example a minor accident like missing a step and landing a little harder than usual on your feet might cause back pain. And certain activities can aggravate degenerative disks, like yard work or house cleaning movements. But overall, pain associated with degenerative disk disease generally heals within a few days at most. Preventative measures like strengthening muscle groups to lessen future traumas are usually recommended along with an analgesic or medication that helps relieve pain. Only in some cases are epidurals or injections, blocks or surgery needed.

PSYCHOLOGICAL ISSUES - If acute back pain turns into chronic stages, factors of depression, fear and anxiety could increase discomfort and pain. And the longer the chronic pain persists, the more these factors tend to play a role, an increased role over time. So treatment strategies may need to include learning coping skills and alternative lifestyle enhancements to deal with the psychological factors present.

SYSTEMIC DISEASE - This disease is the cause for up to 10% of back pain and largely among the elderly. Causes could be cancer-related or related to reduced bone mass or simply the aging process. Increasing or decreasing activities as well as switching positions all may have no affect on pain relief. Alternative therapies may be in need.

FACET SYNDROME - Similar to pinched nerves symptoms, this is believed to be associated with pain in the back's side joints and the main cause of up to 20 percent of back pain cases, with buttocks and upper leg pain increasing with long-term standing, and when switching sitting / standing / lying positions. An injection of local anesthetic into the facet joint helps determine the diagnosis. However, since the anesthetic relieves the pain at the same time and is used as a short-term solution, an x-ray doesn't help with imaging the pain results. Recommended treatment includes rigorous lumbar activities and body mechanics exercises to learn proper or more beneficial posture and movement techniques.

HERNIATED DISK - Also known as a ruptured or protruding disk, a herniated disk extends beyond its own area into a surrounding region. Compression of the nerve root can cause pain. And pressure on the fibers in surrounding ligaments can cause pain. Although an accident involving lifting could be the cause of a herniated disk, it's not necessarily so. For many, the cause is unknown; pain can occur suddenly or gradually over time. Relief for the pain can come from walking instead of sitting or standing, and surgery is rarely required right away, if at all in the event relief from pain happens within a limited amount of time. During this time (up to several weeks) any of the following might be effective to use, depending upon your healthcare provider: medication, physical therapy or non-frequently, steroid spinal injections.

SPONDYLOLISTHESIS or the forward displacement or slippage of one of the lower lumbar vertebrae (generally the fourth or fifth) over the vertebra below it or on the sacrum. This state of health is diagnosed by x-ray. Pain is believed to occur where the displacement is, at or below the displacement, or from spinal stenosis, discussed next. Depending upon the patient, strengthening exercises or a back support may be all that's required. In others, surgery may be an option.

SPINAL STENOSIS - is the constriction or narrowing of the vertebral canal. Mainly due to aging, as the gradual lessening of disk space and changes in ligaments advance upon the nerve roots below the lumbar vertebra or L2, pain can result. It's often accompanied by numbness in the legs and is not aided any by walking. Different vertebra and varied physical activities can affect the pain's location, intensity, recurring and duration. To help diagnose this condition, healthcare providers can use myelography, or an x-ray of the spinal cord after injection of air or a radiopaque substance into the subarachnoid space, with a post-CAT scan. And depending upon the patient, treatments can vary and be minor with medication if the pain gradually disappears, to epidural corticosteroid injections in the epidural, to blocks or surgery.

SPONDYLOARTHROPATHY - This term refers to a variety of diseases affecting spinal joints; arthritis variations- psoriatic arthritis and ankylosing spondylitis, the more common of the two and in males more often than women; and sacroiliitis, accompanies inflammatory bowels. Diagnosis consists of a physical exam, history and testing including x-rays, CAT or MRI, as the disease progresses slowly long-term fusing sacroiliac joints together and joints between vertebrae together. To relieve pain, there is treatment with exercises and physical therapy to promote better enhanced posture and mobility and some arthritic medications.

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Chronic Back Pain Limitations

Thousands and thousands of people annually seek medical care for back pain. For some, the pain is gone within 6 weeks. For others, it becomes chronic back pain.

Chronic back pain affects individuals in various ways. Most make repeated visits to physicians, seeking relief. They want to know what causes their chronic back pain. They want new tests. They want to try whatever treatment may be available.

Chronic back pain sufferers may report difficulty in performing normal daily activities. They may believe the pain is increasing. They may simply want someone to sympathize, and agree that it is not "all in your head" at all.

Although back pain is the main reason people visit orthopedic surgeons and neurosurgeons, and the second main reason they visit primary care physicians, an estimated 5 to 10 percent of those visitors will receive no cure. They will go from low back pain to chronic back pain.

Patients are frustrated because physicians do not cure back pain. Physicians are frustrated because they cannot cure low back pain. Many think they can do little to prevent occasional severe back pain from becoming chronic back pain.

If nothing is done, however, chronic back pain limitations can seriously impinge on daily activity.

Possible Limitations

A look at possible chronic back pain limitations reveals a long list. There are limitations placed by a physician, but there are many more limitations that patients place on themselves. They may include physical limitations, emotional limitations, or mental limitations. Of the many chronic back pain limitations we can discuss only 7 here.

1. Depression: One of the most common limitations of chronic back pain, depression affects everyone involved in the daily life of the sufferer. The type of depression experienced by sufferers of chronic back pain is not simply a matter of feeling sad or "down at the heels" for a day or so. "Major depression" and "clinical depression" are the terms used for this kind of depression.

When chronic back pain limitations include a major depression, the person feels emotionally miserable everyday for at least two weeks. He or she also may have unexplained crying spells; major appetite changes; fatigue, sleep problems; agitation; and thoughts of death or suicide. There may be little interest in activities that were normally enjoyable.

2. Social Activity: A second of the chronic back pain limitations reported is that of social activity. People suffering chronic back pain become reluctant to attend parties and other social functions. They may curtail recreational activities or outings with the family.

3. Work Time: Those who suffer chronic back pain are also more likely to take off more work time. Statistics show that back pain causes the loss of more than 83 million days of work time each year due to back pain.

4. Job Loss: Since it often means lost work time, another of chronic back pain limitations is job loss. Too many lost days, or poor performance due to chronic back pain, can result in replacement.

5. Work Ability: Chronic back pain is a leading cause of work limitations. Back pain limits workers' ability to lift, carry, and perform other duties that are required. It places restrictions on workers, and narrows the job field for many people.

6. Low Pay: Chronic back pain limitations include financial limits for some. Those who are limited in work by chronic back pain earn, on average, only two-thirds the amount of those without back pain.

7. Housework: One of the largest limitations of chronic back pain appears to hit normal activities associated with housework, gardening, and lawn work. Patients with back pain that lasted more than 60 days often report they are no longer able to do any gardening, lawn work, or normal cleaning activities such as vacuuming, mopping floors, etc.

Clinically Proven Limitations

For the patient, it is difficult to believe that chronic back pain limitations are often unnecessary. They continue to believe that the pain has a cause that can be readily diagnosed, despite their physician's repeated assurances to the contrary. They believe the physician can find a medical sure for their back pain if pressed often enough and hard enough. As for treatment, patients often believe that until the cure is found, the best treatment is bed rest and limited activity.

The result of such beliefs is that back pain that could initially be resolved with exercise becomes chronic back pain. Chronic back pain that might still be resolved if the patient were to exercise regularly gradually develops and produces chronic back pain limitations.

TIP: Back pain is very, very common in our society. Rather than let it lead to complications and limitations, you may want to ask your physician for gentle exercises that may resolve your back pain before it becomes chronic.

?2007, Anna Hart. Anna herself is a back pain sufferer, and can sympathize with your problem. She invites you to read more of her articles about back pain at http://www.backpainreliefblog.com Anna has posted additional information on that site about chronic back pain, and articles that describe back pain exercises you can do at home. Pay Anna a visit now.

Do You Have Lower Back Pain?

The back pain is on the rise due the lifestyles we are living in. The back pain affects about 90% of Americans in their life at some point. But that is a matter of time as the pain resolves on its own after a few days to weeks. There are other back pains that do not resolve but becomes lifelong pains. The former is called acute back pain while the latter one is chronic back pain. The pain can be of the upper or the lower region of the back.

SYMPTOMS OF LOWER BACK PAIN

The warning signs that indicate the presence of back pain and there severity depends on the type of conditions that causes it, but essentially the symptoms are similar. Persistent back pain that more often has been present for than a few days. Back pain that wakes the person at night is indicative of the disorder. The pain makes the control of the bowel or bladder difficult in many instances. Presence of a fever, chills, sweats, or other signs of infection or any other unusual symptoms also warns of a back strain or disorder. The lower limbs are also affected by the lower back pain as the pain sensations radiate in many cases down the leg. Pain may worsen while bending the back.

CAUSES

There are many causes of the back pains we often experience. The short term or acute back pain is usually caused by arthritis or injured lower back structures. The pain of chronic nature is usually caused by the inflamed joints, muscles or ligaments of the back region. More often the pain is due the person's lifestyle. Poor posture, obesity, lifting anything the wrong way, sitting or standing in the same posture for a long time can also be the causes. Other factors include physical and mental stress on the person.

Many diseases can also cause severe back pain. Herniated disc, sciatic nerve compression or spinal stenosis may also be the cause of severe backaches as the symptoms of these disorders are generally associated with back pain.

TREATMENT APPROACHES

The treatment of these pains is usually available as over-the-counter (OTC) medications. In many cases the physicians prescribe the drugs for specific conditions as well. The basic function is to relieve pain and reduction of the severity of inflammation. The medications that are used for the treatment of back pains are available as Pain relievers, Muscle relaxants and steroidal medications. In some cases it also requires Physical therapy or even Surgery in severe conditions.

There are many pain killers or pain relievers that are used for back aches. The most common OTC pain killers available are aspirin and acetaminophen (Tylenol) from the NSAIDs. The most popular of these is aspirin as it can reduce both the inflammation and relieves the associated pain. It is easily available under a variety of brand names. It should however be checked for safety in cases of allergy, stomach ulcers or when used in children due to risks of aspirin use in such cases. Acetaminophen is a safe drug in this aspect. However it is associated with risks for patients suffering from liver disorders where it can harm the liver as well as the kidneys.

Other important nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) that relieve pain as well as inflammation, which are more commonly used include; Diclofenac (Cataflam, Voltaren), Flurbiprofen (Ansaid), Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), Indomethacin (Indocin), Ketoprofen (Actron), Naproxen (Aleve, Anaprox, Naprelan, Naprosyn), Piroxicam (Feldene), The less common NSAIDs for this purpose include Diflunisal (Dolobid), Etodolac (Lodine), Meclofenamate (Meclomen), Nabumetone (Relafen), Orudis, Oruvail, Oxaprozin (Daypro), Phenylbutazone, Salsalate (Disalcid), Sulindac (Clinoril) and Tolmetin (Tolectin).

Muscle relaxants

These are centrally acting drugs that are usually prescribed for back ache relief when the muscle spasm is contributing to the pain.

These are available as prescription only medicines in the USA but some are available in Canada without a prescription. Most are available in tablet forms and are prescribed usually along with rest, exercise, physical therapy, or other treatments. Only methocarbamol (Robaxin) is available in both tablet and injectable forms. It is important to note that these muscle relaxing drugs should never be considered as a substitute for the other more important forms of treatment. Carisoprodol (Soma), Chlorzoxazone (Parafon Forte DSC), Cyclobenzaprine (Flexeril), Methocarbamol (Robaxin)

Steroids

In some severe cases the steroids are given as epidural injections to ease the pain. These cases include Herniated disc, sciatic nerve compression or spinal stenosis which involve the nerve compressions where steroids are effective. The effects are temporary but are beneficial to patients of acute episodes of back or leg pain. This also helps in the rehabilitation of the patient by relieving pain.

Physical therapy

Physical therapy may be prescribed by your doctor, which is very effective in healing the pain. This therapy includes;For 20 minutes, 3 or 4 times a day during the first few days of a muscle sprain or spasm the effected person should use ice packs on his back. A hot bath or heating pad can help reduce pain and stiffness of the back muscles as well. Maintain good posture to keep your body's weight aligned and reduce stress on the back muscles thus causing pain relief. For the prevention of future problems weight loss is important. Avoid lifting heavy objects and repeated bending and twisting. Change positions often during the day and use a chair with good lower back support. It should also be noted that if the back pain is not relieved in 3 days by any of the treatments it is better to consult the health care provider.

Surgery

Fewer than 1 in 100 people ever require surgery for back pain.

Generally it is considered after months of an ineffective treatment by the physician but rarely used for this purpose. Surgery is an option in the case of a proven herniated disc that is causing the pain. Treating a herniated disc involves decompressing the nerve in the back that is causing the pain. If herniated disc is causing the pain surgery is an option in that case only which involves decompressing the nerve in the back. Tr aumatic conditions such as fractures of the spine, dislocations, painful spondylolisthesis where one vertebra slips forward on the one beneath it, neurological deficits caused by nerve compression or instability are the rare cases that requires surgery

PREVENTIVE MEASURES

Some tips to maintain a healthy back and avoid causes of low back pain are given below:

Lift an object only by bending your knees and squatting to pick up the object. Always keeping the back straight and holding the object close to the body. By avoiding twists on the body while lifting anything the pain can be prevented. Rather than pulling when moving heavy objects it is always better to push them to avoid any strain on the back muscles.

By stopping or taking intervals while driving a car or truck for long hours. By sitting at a desk the pain is avoided by sitting on a chair that has a good support for the spine. By wearing flat shoes or shoes with low heels (1 inch or lower) to provide a straight stature to the body. An inactive lifestyle contributes to low back pain thus exercising regularly is important. Maintenance of weight is also very important, by putting down the weight the stress on the lower back is reduced.

When the back hurts, the best position for relief is to lie on the back on the floor with pillows under knees, with hips and knees bent and feet on a chair or just with hips and knees bent. This takes the pressure and weight off the back muscles and vertebrae. Resting for 1 to 2 days on the bed can relieve the back pain. Muscles may weaken if rest is more than that and recovery is slowed down so for avoiding this a few minutes walk is recommended.

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Does My Neck Pain Have Anything to Do With My Back Pain? If So, How?

I you happen to suffer with neck and back pain, you are going to love this article.

Questions you may ask yourself (if this is you) are:

"If I have neck pain, does that automatically mean I will have back pain too? Or if I already do have back and neck pain, are the two even related"? If you don't ask yourself those questions, then those are two excellent questions any back pain sufferer, neck pain sufferer or both, should ask.

I think that they are excellent questions to ask because if they are related, and you happen to suffer with neck and back pain, then the answers may help you solve your own pain, and better yet, help you learn the reasons why you seem unable to lose your neck pain once and for all.

One of the best reference books relating to the anatomy and functioning of the spine ever published is aptly named:

THE SPINE

Edited by two highly renowned doctors, Richard Rothman MD, PhD and Frederick Simeone MD, both were past Professors at Pennsylvania Medical School, Rothman for Orthopedic surgery, and Simeone for Neurosurgery.

In this reference book called "The Spine", the second chapter is called "Applied Anatomy of the Spine".

In that chapter, the author basically related how the "23 or 24 individual motor segments", affect the entire spine. These 23 motor segments being referred to are better known as the bones of the spine and everything else that makes them complete, in terms of joint mechanics and electrical "wiring" (if you will).

The chapter explains how that no:

"Disorder of a single major component of a unit can exist without affecting: a) the function of the other components of the same unit, and b) the functions of the other levels of the spine.

That complex yet simple statement could very well hold a secret as to how neck and back pain are related, and more importantly what we can do about it.

In that quote above, the author is trying to get across two points. Firstly, when a problem develops in one area of the spine, then the spine will have a problem in the same area, but with the other components of the spine.

Seems like common sense actually.

By saying "components of the spine" the author is referring to having a problem with all the aspects of the structure and function of the spine. The bones, the nerves, the joints, the discs, the ligaments, the tendons, the cartilage, and anything else that helps make up the components in that area.

But the second more interesting point of that quote is the fact that when a problem develops with a major component of one unit" in the spine, then a problem will develop with the functioning of "another levels of the spine"

Very interesting finding, indeed.

The main take away idea of that entire quote is the fact that a problem in one component of the spine will affect the other components or "functions" of the same area, and the functions of "other" areas.

So picture this, if you have functional problems in your lower back (one component), like not being able to bend as far as you use to do, not being as flexible, having pain with sitting, pain with standing, changing positions, and pain with walking, then the problem can very likely be coming from the neck.

Other functional problems that can develop as a result of problems of the neck are the even more familiar activities of daily living, things like washing the dishes, cleaning up around the house, vacuuming, being on the computer, trying to get comfortable while watching television and trying to sleep comfortably.

If you have pain with doing any of these activities, you may be surprised to learn that you problem may very well start from your neck!

As well, similar problems and pains that you have in your neck, not being able to turn very far, pain into the upper shoulders, even weakness into the neck, arms and shoulders all may be as a result of the components of the lower back.

This idea that the entire spine can act like a singularly related "functioning entity" sounds kind of spooky I realize. Probably even harder to believe, but I assure you that this idea is supported by a vast array of literature, doctors, and references as you shall soon see.

For example, another reference text is entitled "Disorders of the Cervical Spine"

In regards to this references book, the authors tend to be a bit more specific. In this book, Dr. Bland a Professor of Medicine at the University of Vermont College of Medicine, states that "we tend to divide the examination of the spine into the regions: cervical, thoracic, and lumbar spine...this is a mistake"

Dr. Bland goes on to explain why this is a mistake, by stating the cervical spine may "be symptomatic because of a thoracic or lumbar spine abnormality, and vice versa!"

Over the decades, numerous other publications point to the fact that the cervical spine and its problems can influence movements, perception of pain and the neurology of the lower back.

If you actually just stop to think about it though, the neck and back affecting one another should make complete sense.

The signals that go up and down the spine into the lower back must ultimately pass through the neck to get to the brain. As well, all the information travelling down from the brain to the back, must travel through the neck on its way down to arms, trunk, lower back, and legs in order to make them move (and what not).

Mechanical problems of the neck unfortunately can really "mess" with both the signals originating in the spine going to the brain (called afferents) and the signals originating or being relayed from the brain to the spine ( called motor function).

Something I find equally interesting about this phenomenon is the fact that it is not new.

In 1942 the only neurosurgeon in the Hawaiian Islands during Pearl Harbor was Dr. Ralph Cloward.

Operating endlessly and saving countless lives, Dr. Cloward pioneered numerous diagnostic and spinal surgical techniques.

He published an article entitled "Cervical Diskography" and notes that spinal cord compression by a midline cervical disc protrusion can cause "pain extending down to the feet".

Several years later, and as early as 1946, Some of the best clinical observations as it relates to the spine comes from Herman Kabat, MD, PhD, published in a book entitled "Low Back and Leg Pain From Herniated Cervical Disc"

Dr Kabat explains that herniated discs in the neck is usually as a result of trauma, but he goes on to say that the compression of the cervical spinal cord by herniated discs in the neck is "the most common cause of low back and leg pain"

The other interesting finding in this presentation of lower back and leg pain as a result of neck herniations is the fact that these symptoms are

"indistinguishable from the characteristics symptoms of a herniated lumbar disc"

IF you have ever suffered with lower back pain, and have not been able to find any relief, or very little relief, all of the above findings should be a complete paradigm shift.

A paradigm shift because, while you have been focusing on back exercises, epidurals in the back, physical therapy and chiropractic in the back, and even surgery in the back, they may have been all for not, because the real problem, the real source of your pain, is in the neck.

Dr. Kabat confirms this fact when he suggests that "conservative treatment exclusively of the herniated cervical disc in a large series of cases has routinely produced complete and lasting relief of pain in the low back and leg"

Sometimes too, with herniated discs in the neck, pain in the low back and leg is the only complaint, without experiencing any pain in the neck or arm. When this is the case, it is easy to see how we can miss the true cause of the pain.

So what happens when we miss the true cause of lower back pain, especially if the true cause is coming from the herniated disc material in the neck?

Well for one, doctors often recommend lumbar spine surgery. I know that if that were me, and doctors recommended that I have back surgery to relive my back pain, and the real cause of my back pain was coming from my neck, I certainly would want to know that.

Wouldn't you?

Well Dr. Kabat found that patients that did not get any relief from back surgery were found to have a herniated cervical disc which was "exclusively responsible for the low back and leg pain"

I know that that statement above in the very least raises several concerns that must be addressed.

Number one, you must be thinking how the two, the neck and lower back, anatomically, actually relate to each other? Better yet, how in fact can a herniated disc in the neck, result in function problems, pain, and problems in the back? Explain it to me.

Number two, if the neck and the compression that occurs there can cause low back pain and leg pain, why have I never heard about it until now? Why is it not included and considered in the management of people like me, people that suffer with lower back pain?

In part two of this series "How does my neck pain relate to my back pain", I will be discussing the above concerns, and hopefully shed some light on why you keep suffering with lower back and neck pain.

In the last installment, I will give you a simple do at home exercise and stretching program that you can do own your home, to help relieve the compression in your neck, and ultimately live a pain free life.

Till next time, watching your back and neck.

Dr Joel Rosen, D.C. BPE, BA (Psych), is a Doctor of Chiroprrtic as well as a lifestyle & conditioning coach in Boca Raton, author of Lose the Neck Pain System, a contributing author to a number of article directories and magazines

Dr. Joel's neck pain elimination system websites feature his best-selling Lose the Neck Pain System for neck pain, upper back pain, headache pain, carpal tunnel syndrome, and even lower back pain and his membership site offers access to all of Dr Joel's Lose the Neck Pain System and video clips for men and women and discussion forums.

Dr. Joel Rosen also has an advanced education background, completing a Master's of Science Degree in Exercise Physiology from McMaster University in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada and completing a Psychology from York University in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.

Dr. Joel Rosen combines both disciplines as well as his doctorate in chiropractic to give his patients the cutting edge rehab strategies and techniques for obtaining optimal health and ending years of pain and suffering. Dr. Joel continues to study the latest training, supplementation, and nutrition research that will help improve client's health and wellness as well as their physical and mental performance.

Check out his website at http://doctorjoelrosen.com/