- 2008 Presidential Election: The Candidates on Health Care
Health care is one of the top issues in the 2008 election. SpineUniverse asked Senators Obama and McCain 5 questions about their health care plans. Learn how their plans will affect you as you make treatment decisions for your back and/or neck pain.
- 5 Quick Tips to Help Prevent Back Pain
There are things you can do under your doctor's guidance to help prevent back pain from becoming too serious. For example, you can try getting more exercise and working to strengthen your spine. The other 4 tips are just as easy to implement.
- 5 Ways to Manage Back Pain
Back pain does not have to manage your life. The first thing to do is to rest your back. Read the next 4 tips in this article that covers common treatments—including why you should get a good massage to relieve muscle tension.
- A Letter to Santa
Dear Santa, we're worried about how your extra weight, your little round belly, affects your back. We think your weight problem may lead to back pain, and we want to help. We have lots of back pain prevention tips for you!
- A Vacation from Back Pain
Summer is the season to burn some vacation time and hit the road. The longer days and warmer weather may make it easier to get away, but summer travel includes cramped flights and seemingly-endless road trips. And that can take a toll on your back.
- About Chiropractic and Its Use in Treating Low Back Pain
Chiropractic is a form of health care that focuses on the body's structure, especially the spine, and function.
- About Chiropractic and Low Back Pain: Definitions
Terms from the report about Chiropractic and Low Back Pain are defined.
- About Chiropractic and Low Back Pain: References and Appendixes
The references and appendixes to the article "About Chiropractic and Low Back Pain" are provided.
- About the Back and Back Problems: Introduction
Information to help you learn more about acute low back problems, what to do, and what to expect when you see a health care provider.
- About the Back and Back Problems: Pain Relief
Even having a lot of back pain does not by itself mean you need surgery. Surgery has been found to be helpful in only 1 in 100 cases of low back problems.
- Acetaminophen in the Treatment of Acute Low Back Pain
In low back pain, acetaminophen can be effectively utilized as an analgesic. It does not, however, offer patients other desirable effects against inflammation or muscle spasm.
- Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine
An alternative angle to understanding low back pain is presented through the model of Chinese medicine.
- Aerobic Conditioning and Low Back Pain
A physical therapy program for low back pain that is active in nature and geared toward instructing the patient in self-care techniques and back injury prevention are key ingredients in returning a person to a pain-free, active and healthy lifestyle.
- Aging Spine: Older Doesn't Mean More Painful
Time, old injuries, and bad habits take their toll on the spine as you age. But new treatments and better diagnostic tests can help keep back pain at bay throughout an entire lifetime. Learn what causes disc degeneration and spinal stenosis.
- Alexander Technique for Chronic Back Pain
The Alexander technique, a little known treatment option that teaches you how to move your body efficiently and painlessly, may help patients with chronic or recurring low back pain. That's what a study from Britain is saying.
- Alternative Treatments for Back Pain
You may want to try alternative treatment options to relieve your back pain. Acupuncture, herbal remedies, or massage may be part of your treatment plan-- but always discuss treatment options with your doctor before beginning.
- Americans in Pain: Part 1
When Americans were asked about back pain, a national health care issue, they responded along party lines. Who should fix this pervasive problem? Democrats say the government; Republicans respectfully disagree. Read other intriguing survey results.
- Americans in Pain: Part 2
Survey results: Americans say that work is the #1 cause of back and neck pain.
Our career-focused lifestyle seems to promote poor posture and a lack of good
ergonomic principles. Includes tips on how to avoid back pain and neck pain
at wo
- Americans in Pain: Part 3
Survey results: America should invest in more research in order to prevent
back and neck pain. Other ideas include universal health coverage (that's what
Democrats think would fix our backs) and encouraging weight loss (so say Republicans).
- Americans in Pain: Part 4
Survey results: who should pay to fix America's pervasive back and neck pain
issues? The country is split. Some say the government; some say insurance companies.
Any other ideas?
- Americans in Pain: Part 5
Will we ever be able to entirely prevent back pain? You can do your best to
avoid back and neck pain by following these simple tips in your day-to-day life.
And if we all follow these suggestions, more of us can prevent pain.
- Anatomy of Back Pain
Understanding why you have back pain starts with understanding the parts of your spine. Informative overview of the vertebrae, joints, muscles, and nerves that make up your backbone.
- Anti-depressant Medication Used to Treat Low Back Pain
Anti-depressant medication has been found to alleviate the pain associated with osteoarthritis, fibromyalgia, rheumatoid arthritis, and other musculoskeletal conditions.
- Autumn: The Season to Shape Up
There are aspects of fall that encourage physical activity and healthy eating, which help alleviate back pain. Seasonal autumn produce and outdoor exercise are two ways to stay in shape this fall season. Article has exercise and diet tips.
- Avoid Back Pain While Leaf Raking
Leaf raking can leave you with back pain, and no one wants that on a glorious
fall day. Before heading gout to rake, read these quick tips on taking care
of your spine and preventing back pain.
- Back and Neck Pain: Common Causes
Back and neck pain can be caused by many spinal disorders such as a herniated or ruptured disc, compression fracture, stenosis, and infection. These disorders, including sciatica are explained.
- Back and Neck Pain: Diagnosis and Treatment
Back pain is not always indicative of a spinal problem. Rarely is back pain an emergency or serious medical condition.
- Back Care When Pregnant - Maintaining a Healthy Spine
The cause of back pain during pregnancy is related to many factors: change in body posture, hormones that cause the relaxation of connective tissue in the body, poor body mechanics and muscle fatigue.
- Back Pain - Videos
- Back Pain and Its Impact on Sexual Satisfaction
In February 2008, SpineUniverse conducted a national survey on how back pain affects sexual satisfaction. Hint: it doesn't make sex better. Another hint: back pain doesn't mean you can't have sex anymore. Read the full survey results here.
- Back Pain and Spine Surgery
Sometimes spine surgery is necessary to remedy back pain and sciatica. These five points will help you to prepare.
- Back Pain and Stretching Exercises
For people with back pain, stretching exercises may help reduce pain and prevent future episodes of pain or injury.
- Back Pain During Pregnancy
Approximately 80% of pregnant women get back pain. Some activities increase the discomfort including carrying groceries and climbing stairs, but the exact cause of the pain isn’t always understood. Learn about your treatment options, such as massage.
- Back Pain Exercises and Stretches
Keeping your back healthy is a daily commitment. It helps to do daily stretches and exercises specifically designed for your back. Follow these easy instructions on how to prevent back pain or find pain relief.
- Back Pain in the Elderly
Low back pain in the elderly has a much wider range of possible diagnoses.
- Back Pain Prevention and Relief
Many helpful tips about body mechanics and posture are presented to help back pain patients prevent injury.
- Back Pain Prevention: 5 Harmful Habits
5 bad habits that are particularly bad for your spine. Replacing bad habits with good ones can be difficult. You've got to be motivated to successfully create healthy habits that will help you avoid back pain. Get motivated here.
- Back Pain Treatment Options
If you are a back pain sufferer, talk to your doctor about which treatment options are best for you. This article discusses the most commonly used treatments for back pain available today.
- Back Pain Treatment: Acupuncture, Chiropractic, and Physical Therapy
Acupuncture, chiropractic, and/or physical therapy are treatments commonly provided to patients to help treat back and neck pain.
- Back Pain Treatment: Spinal Injections
There are many types of spinal injections used to treat back and neck pain. Two types are highlighted in this informative article.
- Back Pain Treatment: Spine Surgery
The percentage of patients who will require spine surgery to treat back pain is very small. Some of the more commonly performed spinal procedures are featured in this article.
- Back Pain: A Universal Language
Many different conditions can cause neck and back pain such as whiplash, osteoarthritis, osteoporosis, spinal stenosis, and herniated discs. This article includes information about these disorders. Also explains the differences between acute, chron
- Back Pain: Myth or Fact?
Information for patients from the Cleveland Clinic about back pain separates common myths from the facts.
- Back Pain: When is Surgery Appropriate?
Doctor Gordon R. Bell of the Cleveland Clinic answers questions about disc herniation and spinal stenosis.
- Back Strains and Sprains
Low back sprains and strains are injuries affecting the spine's soft tissues. Most are not serious and many can be prevented.
- Back-strengthening Fitness Routine: Part 1
The following program includes exercises to help strengthen your back. These exercises, combined with aerobic exercises, proper nutrition, and good posture habits can dramatically improve your flexibility and overall health.
- Back-strengthening Fitness Routine: Part 2
This article is a part of the exercise program described in Back-strengthening Routine: Part 1. These exercises can improve your flexibility and overall spine health. For optimal results, they should be performed twice a day, 15 minutes at a time.
- Benefits of the McKenzie Method
The McKenzie Method has one major benefit: patients can learn self-care techniques that can reverse their back pain and prevent further painful episodes. Learn the other benefits in this article by a McKenzie clinician.
- Broken Surgical Screw in the Spine
What happens if one of your surgical rods or screws breaks after your spinal
fusion surgery? Another surgery? A nurse practitioner explains what happens
when a screw breaks in your spine and how serious it is.
- Can Exercise Control Back Pain?
Most people know regular exercise will improve their appearance and general health, but few realize the positive effects that good physical conditioning can have on their low back pain.
- Can Therapeutic Massage Help to Relieve Back Pain?
Therapeutic massage is a popular therapy back pain sufferers turn to for relief.
- Care for Your Low Back According to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)
Some patients find that Traditional Chinese Medicine or TCM can be combined with Western medical care to help reduce back pain.
- Causes of Back Pain
Back pain has a variety of causes: sprains and strains, poor posture, obesity, and aging. Before you and your doctor can develop a treatment plan, you need to figure out what's causing your pain. Read this article for some common back pain causes.
- Chiropractic and Back Pain: Clinical Trial Results
Scientific research on chiropractic and low back pain has focused on how well chiropractic help to relieve pain and symptoms.
- Chiropractic Care and Back Pain: An Overview of Diagnostic Principles and Treatment
Understanding what happens during a visit to a chiropractor will help you to see how chiropractic fits in with other spinal specialties to provide an integrated approach to treating back pain.
- Chiropractic Care for Back Injuries
Research shows that manipulative therapy and spinal manipulation is safe and effective.
- Chiropractic Care for Back Pain
Before developing a treatment plan, a chiropractor will do a thorough examination to diagnose the exact cause of your back pain. Then you'll begin chiropractic treatments, which may include spinal manipulation and other manual techniques.
- Chiropractic Care Includes More than Spinal Manipulation
With chiropactic care, most patients immediately think of spinal manipulation. However, chiropractors incorporate several other treatment modalities to help the body heal itself and return patients to a pain-free and healthy life.
- Chiropractic Care of Short Leg Syndrome, Low Back and Neck Pain
Chiropractic medicine is the third largest area of medicine, next only to dentistry.
- Chiropractic Philosophy
Chiropractic philosophy is based on the natural order and balance of things. They believe that the body has the ability to heal itself.
- Chiropractic Spinal Adjustment: What Was That Pop?
During chiropractic adjustment, small pockets of air or bubbles in the tissue fluid surrounding a joint capsule may create a pop or cracking sound when joint tissues are stretched.
- Chiropractic Subluxations and Adjustments
When subluxations occur, chiropractors use specific techniques to return the vertebrae into proper position or mobilize them so they can move freely.
- Chiropractic Therapies
Chiropractic care includes other types of therapy besides spinal adjustments or manipulation.
- Chiropractic Treatment of Back Pain: Facts & Statistics
The American Chiropractic Association presents interesting facts about back pain and tips for prevention.
- Choosing a Doctor of Chiropractic: Patient Information from the American Chiropractic Association
Suffering from Back Pain? Don't choose a Doctor of Chiropractic before reading this article! Read the secrets to selecting the right chiropractor for you.
- Clinical Trials for Back Pain
Listed is information about clinical trials for patients with back pain and spinal disorders.
- Colchicine in the Treatment of Acute Low Back Pain
Colchicine has been regarded by some as the most powerful anti-inflammatory agent known to man. Learn how this medication is used to treat acute low back pain.
- Common Back Pain Questions
This article helps to answer the question, "I just injured my back, but it doesn't hurt enough to go into the doctor. What can I do?"
- Conclusion: Acute Low Back Pain and Medication
Proper selection of pain medication and a positive response can help the patient progress through rehabilitation and avoid the development of a more chronic condition.
- Coping With Back Pain - Part 2 - What Works?
The Cleveland Clinic answers questions about massage, acupuncture and chiropractic.
- Coping with Back Pain: What Works?
The Cleveland Clinic explains treatments to help patients cope with back pain.
- Corticosteroids in the Treatment of Acute Low Back Pain
As potent anti-inflammatory agents, oral steroids represent a theorectically useful agent in the treatment of patients with radiculopathy due to local inflammation secondary to disc injury or herniation.
- Creative, Everyday Exercises to Strengthen Your Back
Exercises that increase the strength of abdomen and back muscles (both upper and lower) will make you more able to resist back injury. This article features alternative exercises that can be practiced throughout your day to strengthen your spine.
- Degenerative Disc Disease: Stages of Recovery
The low back is truly the foundation of our structure. While there are many general guidelines for low back pain and proper maintenance, the truth is that our spine (which includes our low backs) is like a fingerprint--very unique and one of a kind.
- Discharge Instructions for Lumbar Fusion Surgery
Collar care instructions for patients who have undergone lumbar fusions (anterior, posterior) . Printed with permission from Todd Albert, M.D. of the Rothman Institute at Thomas Jefferson University.
- Discogenic Low Back Pain
Discogenic low back pain is caused specifically by one or more intervertebral discs in your lumbar spine. Activities that increases the pressure on the disc can make your pain worse, so sitting or bending forward may hurt. You may also have leg pain.
- Does Back Pain Go Away on its Own?
Chiropractic spinal manipulation is a safe and effective spine pain treatment.
- Don’t Ignore a Child Complaining of Back Pain
In one-third of the cases where a child complains of back pain, there turns out to be a serious reason for the complaint whether it be injury, infection, or tumor.
- Don't Let Back Pain Handicap Your Golf Game
Included in this discussion about golf swing injuries and low back pain is a golfer's check list.
- Drugs, Medications, and Spinal Injections to Relieve Back Pain
Medications may be part of your treatment plan for back pain; your doctor may also recommend spinal injections. Learn the basics of what's prescribed and the different medications for acute and chronic back pain.
- Epidural Corticosteroid Injections and Low Back Pain
Epidural steroids have been shown to be effective in pain reduction in patients with radicular pain.
- Exams and Tests for Back Pain
To diagnose the cause of your back pain, your doctor will need to do several tests. You'll have physical and neurological exams, and then you'll most likely need imaging studies, such as x-rays or CT scans. This will help confirm your diagnosis.
- Exercise to Optimize Outcome in Low Back Pain
For lumbar pain, doctors recommend exercise as a treatment, suggesting patients work to become as physically fit as possible. The term "exercise" is broad, encompassing cardiovascular fitness, flexibility, and muscular strengthening exercises.
- Facet Injections in the Treatment of Low Back Pain
Injections should not be used in isolation, but rather in conjunction with a program stressing muscle flexibility, strengthening, and functional restoration.
- Facet Joints and Low Back Pain
Spinal joints, nerve roots, muscles, and ligaments are some of the entities that can cause low back pain. Learn about the spine's zygapophysial joints and the part they may have in causing low back pain.
- Facts and Tips about Back Pain
Quick facts and tips about back pain.
- Fashion and Back Pain
It can be hard to understand the connection between what you wear and its effect on your spine. But your fashion choices have an impact on the overall health of your back. Article describes the three biggest culprits-- shoes, clothing, and handbags.
- Finding Relief from Low Back Pain is a Challenge!
Therapeutic exercise to treat chronic low back pain is one of the best treatments a doctor can recommend.
- Full Results for SpineUniverse Back Pain Treatment Options Survey
SpineUniverse presents their survey results from early 2008 where website visitors rated non-surgical back pain treatments on a scale from very dissatisfied to very satisfied.
- General Back-saving Tips
The following list of tips will help you maintain the health of your spine in various aspects of your life. Article covers ways to protect your back while traveling and at home.
- Getting the Most from Your Visit to a Spine Specialist - Video
Video interview featuring Mary Rodts, M.S., M.S.A., C.N.P., O.N.C., F.A.A.N. provides patients tips about getting the maximum benefit from a visit with a spine specialist.
- Great Pumpkins, Greater Pains
Pumpkin patches are one of the great mainstays of the fall season. But to make the most of a day trip, you should know how to lift to prevent back pain. Pumpkins are heavier than they look, and they cause pain if you don't know the right technique.
- High Heels and Flip-Flops Cause Back Pain
Beauty takes its toll: after wearing high heels all day, your back may be screaming
for help. Flip-flops can also hurt your spine. A women's spine specialist explains
how your fashion choices can be painful.
- Holiday Weight Gain: How the Holidays Can Cause Back Pain
What's not to love about the holiday season? Well, how about the weight you put on, thanks to all that festive food...and the possible back pain from that extra weight? Avoid back pain this holiday season by following these tips.
- How to Cope When You Have Low Back Pain: Sitting, Driving, Standing, Stooping, Squatting, Kneeling
The key to recovering from acute low back pain is to maintain the normal curvature of the spine.
- Hypermobility and Chronic Low Back Pain: Application of Therapeutic Muscle Stretching
Hypermobility is increased movement of a joint, past the point where it should naturally go. The muscles around the hypermobile joint begin to build up and become used to this painful increased movement.
- I Had Surgery: Is It Too Soon for Sex?
Sexual activity is a vital component to the health of any romantic relationship. And back pain certainly has the ability to make it a less than satisfying experience. This article describes special considerations concerning sex after spine surgery.
- IDET: Wire Goes In, Pain Goes Out
"IDET is a valuable alternative to surgery for many patients who suffer from lower back pain secondary to degenerative disc disease", as stated by Dr. Nagy Mekhail.
- Is Back Pain Ruining Your Golf Game?
Some of the most common golf swing faults known to cause lower back pain are presented.
- Is the Facet Syndrome a Myth?
Lumbar facet syndrome is a convenient diagnosis for mechanical low back pain, but is it real or is the facet syndrome a myth? Learn about facet syndrome and why some doctors believe it does not exist.
- Laparoscopic Lumbar Spinal Techniques
Minimally invasive spine surgery may involve the use of endoscopes; devices that offer surgeons enhanced visualization capabilities that help to reduce complications, blood loss, and fusion disease.
- Lift Weights, Lose Pain
A new study suggests strengthening your sore muscles is a better way to relieve back pain than rest. This article describes new research findings that show weight training as an effective means of reducing-- even eliminating-- back pain.
- Low Back and Pelvic Pain Treated Nonsurgically with Progressive Resistance Exercise
Progressive resistance exercise helps patients with low back and pelvic pain to reach their rehab goals by gradually challenging muscles to strengthen.
- Low Back Pain
Disc degeneration affects about 12 million people in the United States, of which most are between the ages of 20 and 65. Approximately 10% of patients with degenerative discs are candidates for some type of spinal surgery.
- Low Back Pain (LBP): Diagnostic Steps
Pain felt in the low back is not always indicative of a spinal problem. Therefore, a careful physical and neurological examination is needed to confirm the diagnosis.
- Low Back Pain (LBP): Treatment and Recovery
Seldom is spine surgery necessary to relieve low back pain. Medications and physical therapy are often included in a conservative non-surgical treament program.
- Low Back Pain and The Zygapophysial Joint
Various treatment options are available for zygapophysial joint pain. Conservative care options include medication, physical therapy and therapeutic injections.
- Low Back Pain: What You Need to Know
Pain felt in the low back is not always indicative of a spinal problem. A thorough physical and neurologic assessment may reveal the cause of the low back pain.
- Low Back Pain: Getting to the Root of the Problem
For the more than 65 million Americans who suffer from low back pain every year, the symptoms come in different forms, but the problem is frequently the same: a nerve root near the spine is irritated. What can you do to alleviate the pain? Learn wh
- Low Back Pain: Consulting a Back Pain Specialist
For patients with a history of back pain and who are currently experiencing symptoms that are interfering with activities, the first step is proper diagnostic testing to determine the exact cause of the symptoms and the severity of the problem. Afte
- Low Back Strain and Sprain
The prognosis is excellent for a complete recovery from a lumbar (low back) strain or sprain injury.
- Lumbago: Mild to Severe Low Back Pain
Lumbago is a general term sometimes used to mean mild to severe low back pain.
- Lumbar Back Sprains: Treatment and Prevention
The most common cause of back pain is a spinal sprain or strain. Because the pain can be sudden and severe, some patients fear the worst.
- Lumbar Discectomy: Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery
Back pain and sciatica may result from a herniated disc. Learn what happens when a disc ruptures and what non-surgical and surgical treatments are available.
- Lumbar Discectomy: Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery
Micro Endoscopic Discectomy (MED) is a newer minimally invasive procedure used to remove a herniated disc.
- Lumbar Laminectomy
Lumbar laminectomy is a surgical procedure used to treat spinal stenosis, a degenerative condition in which the spinal canal becomes narrowed and creates pressure on the spinal cord.
- Lumbar Laminotomy and Microdiscectomy Video
Howard An, M.D. of Rush-Presbyterian-St.Lukes Medical Center, Chicago explains the laminotomy procedure.
- Lumbar Microendoscopic Discectomy Surgery
This video illustrates the stages of a lumbar microendoscopic discectomy spine surgery. The patient is a 37 -year-old female suffering from a large L5-S1 herniated disc.
- Lumbar Radiculopathy: Low Back and Leg Pain
Lumbar radiculopathy means that you have leg pain as a result of a nerve problem in your lower back. Your specific pain pattern depends on which nerve is affected in your lumbar spine. Radicular pain is generally described as sharp or burning pain.
- Lumbar Radiculopathy: Proper Diagnosis Key to Effective Treatment of Back and Leg Pain
A combination of medical history, physical examination, and diagnostic testing helps the physician understand and treat the patient's low back pain and other symptoms.
- Lumbar Spine Surgery: Surgical Techniques to Treat Low Back and Leg Pain
Low back surgery aims to reduce or relieve pain and restore lumbar spinal stability. Decompression and stabilization are two surgical techniques spine surgeons perform to treat lumbar disorders.
- Maintaining Your Back for Your Lifetime
Describes how to maintain a healthy back after having undergone a spinal surgery.
- Medication and Treatment of Acute Low Back Pain
There are different types of medications used to treat lower back pain. During the acute phase, medications work to lessen pain and inflammation. A physician discusses many of the commonly prescribed drugs in detail, even considering the cost.
- Medications to Optimize Outcome in Low Back Pain
Various types of medications may be used to help relieve low back pain. Gerard Malanga, M.D. discusses many of these drugs and explains how patients may benefit.
- Memo to Airlines: Travelers Would Pay More to Avoid In-flight Back Pain
Most people have back or neck pain (or both) after a flight. A SpineUniverse survey found that 75% of people are willing to pay more for a more spine-friendly seat. Will the airlines listen and create a seat that gives support, not back pain?
- Minimally Invasive Herniated Disc Repair Video
In this replay of a live video broadcast, Kevin Foley MD repairs a herniated disc using innovative minimally invasive techniques
- Minimally Invasive Procedures Used to Treat
Disorders Affecting the Lumbar Spine
Identifying the pain generator is the first principle in the physiatric approach to low back pain.
- Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery TV Interview
An interview with Stewart G. Eidelson, MD covers the topic of minimally invasive spinal surgery.
- Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery: Lumbar Discectomy
Post operative care and what to expect at home following a Micro Endoscopic Discectomy (MED) procedure for treatment of a herniated disc.
- Multi-disciplinary Treatment of Back Pain
Chronic back pain is a complex social problem with medical aspects and should be appropriately assessed and treated.
- Muscle Relaxants in the Treatment of Acute Low Back Pain
The muscle relaxing properties of "muscle relaxants" arise not from direct activity at the muscular or neuromuscular junction level but rather from an inhibition of more central polysynaptic neuronal (nerve cells that end in synapses) events.
- Non-steroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) in the Treatment of Acute Low Back Pain
In single doses, most of the NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) are more effective analgesics (painkillers) than a single dose of acetaminophen or aspirin.
- Nucleoplasty® Radio Wave Injection Offers Quick, Lasting Relief - Without Drugs
Nucleoplasty disc decompression falls in the category of "conservative management" much like pain drugs, epidural injections and physical therapy.
- Open Anterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion (ALIF) - An Introduction
If a patient with serious, long-term low back pain is not helped by nonoperative programs, a surgical procedure such as anterior lumbar interbody fusion might be considered.
- Opioids in the Treatment of Acute Low Back Pain
The goal of successful opioid prescription involves achieving a tolerable balance between analgesia and the side effects often associated with opioid use.
- Oral Contraceptive Use Linked to Back Pain
Do oral contraceptives lead to more back pain in women? A women's spine specialist
explains the possible link between the pill and low back pain. The basic reason:
it's the estrogen. Learn what the extra estrogen does to your body.
- Osteopathic Manipulation for Low Back Pain
Osteopathic manipulation is a system of evaluation and treatment designed to relieve low back pain and restore normal body function.
- Pain in Aging and Pediatric Populations: Special Needs and Concerns
Pain in younger patients requires special attention, particularly because children are not always able to describe the degree of pain they are experiencing.
- Pain Management: Acetaminophen through COX-2 Inhibitors
Pain management specialists provide many types of therapies to help resolve pain. Many are discussed here - acetaminophen through COX-2 inhibitors.
- Pain Management: Electrical Stimulation through Magnets
Information about several main-stream and alternative types of pain management treatments are discussed - from electrical stimulation to magnets.
- Pain Management: Narcotics through Surgery
Nerve blocks, NSAIDs, and physical therapy are just some of the treatments to alleviate pain. Surgically, treatments include discectomy and fusion.
- Pain Primer: Scientific Research into Painkillers
Scientists are working to develop potent pain-killing drugs that act on pain receptors. Many less toxic compounds that are more potent than morphine, but without its addictive properties are under investigation.
- Pain Primer: What Do We Know About Pain?
Pain is a complicated process that involves an intricate interplay between a number of important chemicals naturally found in the brain and spinal cord.
- Pain Syndromes and Disorders: Arachnoiditis to Myofascial Pain
Pain comes in many forms—from sharp, fleeting pain to chronic pain. This article explains many causes of pain, especially pain related to the spine and spinal components. Read this to understand how pain varies.
- Pain Syndromes: Neuropathic Pain through Vascular Disease
Neuropathic pain and sciatica are just two types of pain disorders that can affect the spine. These and other pain syndromes are discussed in detail including how these disorders cause discomfort.
- Pain: Hope Through Research
Back or neck pain may be new to you, but in this brief history you will learn how pain affected ancient civilizations as well as how current medicine differentiates between acute and chronic pain.
- Palpation: The Art and Science of Chiropractic Diagnosis
Spinal palpation is an important part of the patient's chiropractic examination and helps the chiropractor determine where and how to adjust or manipulate the spine.
- Patient Selection for Spinal Surgery
Patient selection is crucial to achieving an excellent surgical outcome. A multidisciplinary approach optimizes the changes that the most appropriate treatment will be given.
- Patient's Pain History and Diagnostic Tests
The patient's pain history and certain diagnostic tests play an important part in finding the cause of their discomfort.
- Percutaneous Nucleoplasty Surgery Video for Patients
Percutaneous nucleoplasty is a type of minimally invasive spine surgery. In this video presentation, Dr. Stewart G. Eidelson narrates the surgical procedure.
- Physical Therapy Program for Low Back Pain
A physical therapy program that is active in nature and geared toward instructing the patient in self care techniques and back injury prevention are key ingredients in returning a person to a pain-free, active, and healthy lifestyle.
- Physical Therapy to Relieve Back Pain
Physical therapy has two components: passive and active treatments. Read about what your physical therapist may use as he or she works to reduce your back pain. Also explains why you may need to do aerobic exercise as part of the healing process.
- Pregnancy: How to Find Low Back Pain Relief
When you're pregnant, you don't have as many options for low back pain relief,
but that doesn't mean you have to suffer. A nurse practitioner suggests several
great options for taking care of tired back muscles.
- Preparing For Lumbar Fusion Surgery
This article will help you prepare for your lumbar surgery. Hints on how to prepare your home, what to expect before admission and after admission for your lumbar surgery.
- Preventing Chronic Low Back Pain
The benefits of lumbar strengthening exercise is long-lasting and includes greater muscle strength, increased bone density, endurance, and flexibility.
- Procedure: Lumbar Laminectomy
A lumbar laminectomy is a surgical procedure used to relieve pressure on a spinal nerve. It involves removing a portion of the lamina, which is part of your vertebrae. Read how a lumbar laminectomy is done and what spinal conditions it’s used for.
- Pseudoathrosis (Failed Fusion)
After spine surgery, how do you know if your bones have fused well? What if you have pseudoarthrosis (failed fusion) and don't know it? Read a spine expert's opinion on successful surgery.
- Rapidly Reversible Low Back Pain and the McKenzie Method
Dr. Donelson believes some forms of back pain are rapidly reversible-- you can relieve your pain with the McKenzie Method. He explains how and who benefits most from McKenzie.
- Recovery from Lumbar Fusion Surgery
An excellent overview of what to expect following surgery including basic recovery instructions.
- References 1-50: Understanding Neuropathic Pain
References 1 through 50 to Dr. Steven Richeimer's article "Understanding Neuropathic Pain".
- References: 5 Ways a Spa Visit May Help Reduce Back Pain
List of references to Dr. DePalma's article "5 Way a Spa Visit May Help Reduce Back Pain."
- References: 51-103: Understanding Neuropathic Pain
References 51-103 to Dr. Steven Richeimer's article about neuropathic pain.
- Relieve Back Pain: 5 Popular Non-surgical Treatments
Most cases of back and neck pain resolve alone without the need for spine surgery. When treatment is necessary, many different types of non-surgical therapies may help to relieve back pain.
- Resolving to Get in Shape? 5 Things to Help You Avoid Back Pain
Here is a checklist from Relax The Back of things to consider and actions to take to protect your back when starting a new exercise program.
- S-1 Joint Injections to Manage Back Pain
The sacroiliac joint is a common area of referrred pain and can persist as the primary focus of pain.
- Sen. Obama’s Health Care Plan: 3 Key Points
Here are three key points to understand about Sen. Obama’s health care plan for America. Learn quickly about his ideas on improving the system, how we’ll pay for it, and who will benefit.
- Sen. Obama’s Health Care Plan: How Are You Going to Help Kids?
Kids of low-income families often don’t get the medical care they need because their parents can’t afford it. With health care policies, it’s crucial to look at how they will help kids. Sen. Obama explains his health care plan for younger Americans.
- Sen. Obama’s Health Care Plan: How Will Investing in Technology Improve Health Care?
Is our health care system outdated? How can investing in technologies improve health care? Sen. Obama’s campaign comments on his plan to use the Internet and IT to help patients, especially those with chronic conditions.
- Sen. Obama’s Health Care Plan: What About Small Businesses?
SpineUniverse asked Sen. Obama 5 health care questions during the 2008 presidential election. Here he answers the second question: How will you help small businesses provide quality health insurance for their employees?
- Sen. Obama’s Health Care Plan: What About the Uninsured?
Sen. Obama’s campaign answers SpineUniverse’s first health care question: What are your plans for uninsured and underinsured Americans? How are you going to help them get the coverage and treatment they need?
- Sex and Back Pain
Back pain can disrupt a sexual relationship. However, back pain doesn’t have to mean no more sex. It does mean that you’ll have to make some adjustments. Dr. Corners discusses this common concern of back pain sufferers and offers solutions.
- Simple Ways to Prevent the Onset of Low Back Pain
Learn how you can help prevent the development of low back pain with regular fitness activities, good posture, a well-designed workspace that is ergonomically friendly, and proper body mechanics.
- Spine Patients and Internet Use
One of the most common reasons people access and search the Internet is for medical information. This article will help Internet users to develop a critical eye when viewing sites purporting to offer reliable medical information.
- Spine Specialists On-Call: Spinal Nerve Compression and Unilateral Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion (TLIF)
The goal of lumbar spine surgery typically involves removing pressure off spinal nerves, a procedure called nerve decompression.
- Spine Symposium February 10, 2004
A popular spine symposium presented in February 2004 in Boca Raton, FL. SpineUniverse founder, Stewart G. Eidelson, M.D. answers questions from the audience.
- Spine Symposium Video March 11, 2003
A video of an educational spine symposium presented March 11, 2003 at Bethesda Memorial Hospital in Boynton Beach, Florida presented by Stewart G. Eidelson, MD.
- Spine Treatments in the News
Can you trust what you hear on the TV about back pain treatment options? Research and cutting edge treatments do make the news, so it's up to you to do your own research after hearing a news segment about spine treatments.
- Strengthening Exercises for Back Pain
Stretching and strengthening the muscles in your back helps improve the health of your spine. A physical fitness program including a variety of exercises can make your back capable of handling unforeseeable stresses.
- Surgery for Back Pain
Less than 5% of people with back pain need spine surgery. But if you're in that 5%, your doctor will make the best recommendation for the type of surgery. This is a list of typical surgical procedures used to treat back pain.
- Surgical Options for Back Pain
Surgery for back pain is a last resort treatment. The reasons for spine surgery include nerve or spinal canal compression.
- Symptoms of Back Pain
There are various ways to feel back pain and your symptoms depend on what is causing your pain.
- Take Charge of Your Upper Back Pain
Upper back pain is commonly caused by poor posture, muscle strain, hard coughing, or incorrect body mechanics. This information provides many "first pain response" at-home treatments to help ease upper back pain.
- Thanksgiving and Back Pain
Thanksgiving is just a warm-up for a month of celebrating. Take care of your back that Thursday and establish good habits for the rest of the holidays. Tips for avoiding back pain in the kitchen, at the table, and on the couch.
- The Economic Crisis and Back Pain
Americans aren't good at dealing with stress, and with the current economic crisis, we're all stressed out. Stress leads to more back and neck pain as we start to feel that we're carrying the weight of the world. Learn stress-relieving tips.
- The Effect of Flying on Back and Neck Pain: Survey Results
Read the full SpineUniverse survey results on airplane travel and its effect on back and/or neck pain. Basic result: it hurts to fly, but what can travelers do to make themselves more comfortable -- and less likely to step off the plane in pain?
- The History of Chiropractic
Chiropractic started in the late 1800s, and it’s come a long way since then. The basic philosophy remains the same, though. Learn other details about the development of chiropractic and its various techniques, such as spinal manipulation.
- The Importance of Performing Test Movements Repeatedly in the McKenzie Evaulation
In a McKenzie examination, you'll do multiple end-range movements: e.g., arching your back as far as you can. This is to try to find your directional preference-- the movement direction that relieves pain. It's the first step in the McKenzie Method.
- The Low Back is Truly the Foundation of Our Spine
Your habits, genetic make-up, traumas, footwear, lifestyle, job, quality of mattress, weight, diet, etc. all affect your lower back. Learn how the stages of back pain are related to your particular make up.
- The Olympics Caused My Back Pain
I didn't know watching the Olympics could be so painful...for my spine. For four hours I sat slumped on the couch, and my bad posture led to back pain. Here's some back stretches and exercises I should've done to help prevent muscle tension.
- The Origin of the McKenzie Method
The McKenzie Method was created by Robin McKenzie. Get the full story of how he developed this back pain treatment option, which he discovered by accident.
- The Psychology of Pain
Chronic pain patients often find help through a multi-disciplinary treatment plan that may include psychology. If you're referred to a psychologist, it doesn't mean your pain is imaginary. A psychologist explains what will happen in an appointment.
- Three Stages of Low Back Pain
After injury, there is usually an associated muscle spasm and swelling (inflammation) of the discs or nerves. This is why it is common to feel multiple types of pain when injured.
- Three-Step Program for Chronic Low Back Pain
In many cases of chronic pain, an early and aggressive treatment plan produces the best results. A chiropractor describes a three-step approach, including spinal manipulation and exercises, to help relieve ongoing pain.
- Tips for Better Sex ... even with Back Pain
A SpineUniverse survey showed that back pain does not make your sex life better. Usually, it makes it worse. Use these three helpful tips (including tips on positions) to maintain a sexually satisfying relationship even if you have back pain.
- Tips to Avoid Back Pain at the Table
The meal is the highlight of Thanksgiving, so it makes sense that we spend hours around the table. Watch your posture as you're sitting and talking. Also, find out why it's best to pace yourself while eating the big meal.
- Tips to Avoid Back Pain in the Kitchen
Many of us spend a lot of time in the kitchen getting ready for Thanksgiving. Hours of cooking can lead to back pain and general soreness. Get tips on how to avoid back pain in the kitchen.
- Tips to Avoid Back Pain on the Couch
After eating Thanksgiving dinner, the majority of us end up on the couch napping. Sleeping on the couch isn't the best thing for your spine, but neither is watching hours of TV with poor posture. How should you approach the couch on Thanksgiving?
- Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and Back Pain
Using the model of Traditional Chinese Medicine, the treatment of low back pain is explored.
- Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion (TLIF)
Transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF) is a variation of the posterior lumbar interbody fusion (PLIF) approach for the surgical treatment of spondylolisthesis and segmental instability.
- Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion (TLIF): Advantages
A unique feature of the TLIF technique is its ability to restore interbody height and proper spinal curavature, which further helps to stabilize the spine and adds to its fusion potential.
- Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion (TLIF): Indications
A TLIF procedure may be indicated for certain patients with degenerative disc disease, low grade spondylolisthesis, spinal instability, or those at a high risk for failed fusion.
- Transforaminal Selective Endoscopic Discectomy™: Extremely Minimally Invasive Surgical Treatment for Low Back and Leg Pain
Selective Endoscopic Discectomy (SED) is an alternate treatment procedure for some chronic pain patients.
- Transforaminal Selective Endoscopic Discectomy™: Recovery, Complications, Procedure and Contraindications
An explanation of why selective endoscopic discectomy works as well as possible complications and contraindications.
- Treating Back Pain at Home
There are many things you can do on your own to ease your back pain. Since most of the healing process goes on outside a doctor's office, treating an injured back should lie mostly with the patient at home. Article includes at-home treatment tips.
- Treating Disorders Affecting the Lumbar Spine
Using Minimally Invasive Procedures
The physiatric approach includes an accurate diagnosis targeting the main pain generator.
- Trigger Point Spinal Injections
Trigger point injections are an adjunctive treatment, which facilitates participating in an active exercise program.
- Turning Back Pain and Sciatica Upside Down
Can defeating the effects of gravity help relieve low back and leg pain related to sciatica? Inversion table therapy might be an "at home" treatment that "turns the tables" on your sciatica!
- Understanding Chiropractic and Low Back Injury
Chiropractors use a range of techniques that include specific adjustments, general manipulation, low force and non-force maneuvers, and other procedures tailored to meet the patient's needs.
- Understanding Lumbar Fusion Surgery
The goal of lumbar fusion surgery is to relieve pain, numbness, tingling and weakness, restore nerve function and stop or prevent abnormal motion in the spine. This is done by fusing the vertebrae together.
- Vitamin D Can Reduce Back Pain
Recent research shows that patients with chronic back pain almost always have a vitamin D deficiency, too. Taking vitamin D supplements may eventually bring pain relief-- when used in conjunction with other treatments. Find out why.
- What Can I Do to Manage Low Back Pain and Sciatica?
What can I do to manage low back pain and sciatica? I'm a mother with 2 young children underfoot and need some advice.
- What is a Foraminotomy?
Sometimes, when you talk to your doctor, you end up more confused because of the big words. A neurosurgeon breaks down a foraminotomy, a surgical procedure for back or neck pain. He makes it easy to understand what will happen during the surgery.
- What is Back Pain?
If you have back pain, you're in good company: about 3 in 4 adults will have back pain at some point. Low back pain is the most common. Learn about the types of back pain, from muscle strains to pain caused by more severe spinal conditions
- What is Chiropractic?
Chiropractic is the third largest area of medicine. In his article, Dr. Ron Grassi explains the types of treatments DCs use to treat patients without drugs or surgery.
- What is the Role of Age and Gender in Pain?
It is now widely believed that pain affects men and women differently. Researchers have learned that sex hormones, culture, and psychology play a part.
- What Kind of Training Do Chiropractors Receive?
Chiropractic training typically includes coursework in anatomy, physiology, microbiology, pathology, nutrition and many other subjects.
- What Really Gets Rid of Back Pain?
Using a scale ranging from Very Dissatisfied to Very Satisfied, patients rated how happy they were with the outcome from each back pain treatment they tried.
- What Should I Know About Lumbar Spinal Fusion?
A lumbar spinal fusion surgery may be recommended for various conditions, including disc herniation, lumbar spondylolisthesis, scoliosis, or degenerative disc disease. Learn how the surgeon will perform the fusion and how it will help your pain.
- What to Ask Before Spine Surgery
Surgery is a major decision, so you should fully understand what you're getting
into. Ask your surgeon all the questions you want, and don't think that any
of them are stupid questions. A nurse practitioner gives an extensive list of
good
- What You Need to Know About Acute Low and Mechanical Back Pain: Symptoms and Diagnosis
Acute low/mechanical back pain is a common medical problem. It is also called low back pain, lumbago, idiopathic low back pain, or sprain/strain.
- What You Need to Know About Acute Low/Mechanical Back Pain: Treatment and Return to Work
Most people with this type of back pain respond rapidly to treatment. In addition to a short period of rest, pain medication, and supervised therapy, it is important to maintain a positive attitude, and continue to engage in regular daily activities.
- What You Should Look for in a Chiropractor
Tips to find the right medical professional involves finding one that you are comfortable with and who meets your specific health care needs.
- Why Does My Back Always Hurt?
Patient education is one of the most effective tools to prevent back injury and pain.
- Working Out Low Back Pain
Good physical conditioning through a regular exercise program has many positive effects on your low back pain.
- World-class Athletes Struggle with Back Pain
Almost all of us get back pain; professional and Olympic athletes are no exception. Learn how several world-class athletes have dealt with herniated discs and sciatic pain, plus hear comments from spine experts on their treatment.
