Oxidative Stress - The Root to Chronic Back Pain

spinal stenosis

Many people think that when they take medicine or even have surgery that either one of those is the cure-all for back pain relief. What they don't realize is that neither one is a sure bet. With medicine, whether over-the-counter or prescription, has side effects that can harm your body. Some of those drugs can cause you to have liver damage. Or, you can be forced to refrain from action that requires your attention, such as driving.

So, in order to get to the bottom of your back pain, you must find out what the root is. In this case, it happens to be oxidative stress. This is when molecules that are not good for you (oxygen-free radicals) are formed. These radicals can be harmful to your health. When these radicals decrease, the chances of you getting a disease are lowered.

In order to decrease this stress, you need to eat plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables. These are foods that can help the oxidative stress level to not take over your body. Believe it or not, these foods not only improve your health, but they also decrease the chance of you having chronic health issues, such as back pain. If you do eat fruits and vegetables, they should be eaten raw. That way you will get all or the vitamins and nutrients from it.

Eating natural antioxidants can help you not to be burdened with free radical damage. Eating foods that have Vitamin E, beta-carotene and other vitamins are antioxidants which can do just that. Invest in organic foods, which do not have those artificial preservatives and can help you to keep damaged free radicals at bay.

You should eat foods such as fresh whole brightly colored fruits, green leafy vegetables, carrots, broccoli, romaine lettuce and anything else that contains antioxidants. Making sure these fruits and vegetables are raw is the key. Plus, consuming antioxidants can help to slow your aging process.

Continuing to use drugs for back pain relief is nothing but an endless cycle that doesn't get you very far. Plus it's nothing more than a temporary fix for you. If the pain comes back, then you'll have to take more. There are more ingredients in the drugs for back pain relief that can damage your system. It's better to have something natural like fruits so that you can be healthy and not have to deal with oxidative stress any longer. In order to get rid of the problem, you have to get rid of the root. Since oxidative stress seems to be the root with back pain, then it must be eliminated.

Certain Rowing Exercises Can Potentially Relieve Symptoms of Scoliosis

spinal stenosis

As part of the scoliosis workout routines proposed to correct posture and also relieve pain in the spine, rowing exercises are in fact an excellent option. Rowing exercises may be used as a healing method for scoliosis considering it can work the sizable muscle groups around the back as well as shoulders, working to strengthen the muscles throughout the spinal column to stop misaligned parts from becoming worse. Below you'll find a checklist of a number of rowing routines which are often beneficial to people suffering from scoliosis:

1. Bent-Over Rows - Stand with your legs a bit wider than your shoulders and drop down at the knees just a little. Poke your rear end out there as if you were attempting to brace against a wall and maintain your spine as straight as you possibly can. Put your arms straight out with palms facing straight down and holding the weights in your hands, and position your hands just in front of the knees. Pull your arms back and upwards a little more. Your arms should be alongside your upper rib cage and your elbows will be behind your back. Then clench your shoulder blades together as firm as you are able to in advance of releasing the clench and also lowering your arms back toward the knees. Once more, continue to keep your spinal column as straight as you can and certainly do not overextend the neck, keep your head up and don't let yourself look down.

2. Upright Rows - Upright rows tend to be very simple and also require you to use smaller-sized hand weights. The most typical weights used for this exercise usually are within 2 and five pounds each. Come up straight and put your arms right in front of yourself lowered to around your waist. Your palms really need to be facing your thighs bearing the weights, and steadily draw your arms upward with the use of your elbows barely above your hands. Then urge your arms back all the way down and then temporarily stop prior to doing it again. Repeat this exercise ten times to achieve 1 set, then continue completing 2 additional sets featuring a small breather in between each of these. Make it a point through this helpful routine to have your body's posture as vertical as you can.

3. Singular-Arm Rows - Utilizing something to lean on top of with the left hand, such as a chair or perhaps a exercise ball, grasp a slightly heavier weight inside of the right hand. Lunge forward using your legs so now the knees are bent slightly and one foot is at the front of your body and the other is just in back of your body.

Take the right arm and then suspend it by your foremost knee. Bring it all the way up and also backwards until your right hand is in fact next to your rib cage. Work on pulling the shoulder blades together as tightly as you can. Then gradually over time let your right arm travel downwards. Bring this about 10 reps for three sets on each particular arm.

In conclusion, remember that you should never start an exercise routine without consent from a qualified professional. The goal of these workouts is to improve your spinal health, and not to cause further injury.

Available Options In Spinal Stenosis Treatment

spinal stenosis

Back pain or spine ache is something that will usually annoy and irritate most people very much. As a matter of fact, it is often pretty painful. Due to the pain people feel on their back or spine, they are not likely to be able to run their businesses as successfully as before they get struck by the back pain or the spine ache. Yet, it is quite a fortune that it is not impossible to get over this painful feeling. In fact, there are quite a few available options in spinal stenosis treatment.

To start it off, those people who suffer from back pain can try carrying out daily exercises which are meant to relieve their back pain in a natural way. Yet, there are not few of those back pain or spine ache sufferers out there who do not really seem to believe that this method can actually work. They doubt that such exercises have the power to put the condition of their spine back to its normal working order. Instead, one assumption they have in common is that yoga and other natural exercises -- no matter what they may be -- will only relieve their symptoms for a temporary time period.

The second option available in spinal stenosis treatment is the spinal decompression therapy. This therapy will usually require the use of such spinal decompression machines as the DRX9000 and VAX-D. Both of these machines have been tested and proven to work in fixing compressed spinal canals that happen as a result of herniated discs.

Yet, there is one thing that spine ache sufferers will have to bear in their mind. These machines should never be intended to treat stenosis that happens as a result of osteoarthritis that leads to bony spurs.

Another available option when it comes to spinal stenosis treatment is the surgery option. This last option is often considered to be the best and the most effective way in treating spinal stenosis. Laminectomy is one of the most sought after surgery in this case. It attempts to stop the spinal cord from being pressed continuously by disposing of the root or lamina of the vertebral bone that is affected by the spine.

Unfortunately, since laminectomy is quite an invasive treatment, patients should be prepared for the worst case that is complications. According to statistics, laminectomy often leads to spine instability. The worse thing is that there are usually not only one complications.

With that being said, patients should also be prepared to encounter failed back syndrome. If they come across this second complication, even repetitive surgeries are not quite likely to help them get over their back pain or spine ache. These complications make it necessary for patients to take additional medications such as antidepressants, minor nerve blocks, epidural steroid injections, NSAIDs and TENS.

Sciatic Pain Relief Comes in Many Forms

spinal stenosis

Sciatic pain relief is sought by many people who describe the pain as unrelenting and sharp. Sciatica is caused by compression or irritation of one of the five sciatic nerve root endings. People may feel pain (in legs, buttocks, back and feet), numbness, or general muscle weakness when moving. Some feel pins and needles or a tingling sensation on the side of the body affected. Sciatica, which involves the lumbar, dorsal or sacral nerves, is usually felt on only one side of the body. Therefore, treatment of sciatica is different for each individual. Because it depends on the various underlying causes, testing must be done to find the cause so the doctor will know how to proceed.

Although the most common symptoms of sciatica are low back and leg pain, the pain can also be caused by spinal disc herniation, degenerated discs, spinal stenosis, or spondylolisthesis (roughening, enlarging, and/or misalignment of the vertebrae). Some patients feel sharp shooting pains through the entire lower body (behind the knees, buttocks) so sciatic pain relief methods may vary. Treatments include pain medications and muscle relaxants, epidural injections, physical therapy, massage, ultrasound, weight loss, acupuncture and surgery.

Strengthening the muscles that support the back may help with pain relief. Walking, swimming, yoga or Pilates can also prevent and ease the pain by improving the body's flexibility and strengthen back muscles. Keeping good posture helps avoid triggering sciatic pain. Try to support the back when driving, sitting, standing, and sleeping. Be sure to use proper lifting and carrying postures when moving heavy objects or doing repetitive tasks. Stretching exercises help the vertebrae by keeping the body limber and rejuvenated after long periods of sitting. Small things such as these are important, especially as we age or carry extra weight.

Once a diagnosis is made, Sciatic pain relief can be achieved using various treatments. CT scans, MRIs, or MR Neurography are routine tests done to find the cause of sciatic pain. Testing is necessary to establish a prognosis as well. A case of sciatica can last from a few weeks (due to simple muscle strain) or months and years (when the cause is a chronic condition). Therefore pain relief may be as simple as treating the pain with Tylenol, or as serious as getting epidurals or surgery. Your doctor will discuss the alternatives with you and be sure to give you the most effective treatment.

Is Joint Pain Ruining Your Life?

spinal stenosis

Is Joint Pain Ruining Your Life? In case you answered YES to that question, you'll want to see how this little joint pain supplement can literally change your life as you now know it. It certainly has changed mine. Free yourself from joint pain.

Most people are not aware of the fact that up until recently there has not been a product on the market that addresses the "joint and spinal canal pain issues" that many of us suffer.

That's right, I'm talking to you and your pain situation (in particular), and I'm talking to the millions of middle- aged and seniors out there who suffer from Spinal Stenosis; Degenerative Arthritis; Bursitis; Gout; and Fibromyalgia. Many of us who suffer have tried "all the latest and greatest" joint and back pain relievers "on the market at the time"... And were disappointed.... lets face it....most products just DO NOT WORK.

And what happens, in the mean time, is our pain and suffering goes on--day after day - as we curse the unfortunate positions we find ourselves in. But face it....what other choice do we have but to take the "stuff" we're told to take? ( even though we know it's "crap!") -- That's right--- we know ( or should know) the drugs we are being prescribed are just a cover-up to mask a REAL medical problem ---"And YES we've tried all of the natural stuff on the market....and IT didn't work either!"

"We just want the pain to stop!" but it lingers on....day in/ day out What Kind of Lifestyle Is That?

Through my years of suffering from one pain to another due to "pain du jour" and struggles with maintaining my mobility, I can definitely tell you that my unending search to find "pain- free- nirvana" has been so elusive and frustrating at times. but what else can we do but "live with it" and endure? You can't just give up!.... We all want a pain free and mobile lifestyle!

What I Discovered On A Doctors Visit.....

About 4 months ago, I remember complaining to my doctor ( I guess I sound a lot like a broken record to him) about how this latest round of pain killers; anti-inflammatories and MSM combinations were having their usual non-effect on my Spinal Stenosis and my "on fire" leg pain. (I don't know about you, but I remember the exact day and date that I was first "afflicted " with my degenerative joint pain and Spinal Stenosis issues. It Was Dec.4, 2005 - (and my life hasn't been the same since.)

So anyway.... about 4 months ago my doctor starts talking about this new Bone Morphogenetic Proteins "stuff" -- He said he'd heard about this company that had just received FDA clearance on an oral product that could possibly help me with my degenerative joint and back pain problems and the excruciating pain and discomfort that I'd been going through.

And as he explained it further....I started to take note and listen to him more and more because what he was saying was making logical sense to me.

My Doctor tells me these new Bone Morphogenetic Proteins aren't all that new, they were actually discovered back in 1965 by a researcher from UCLA who had stumbled upon a special class of proteins that stimulated and activated the cells around bone and cartilage to grow "Into Itself" thus re-regenerating the entire region of the joint.

It was further discovered that as we age, our bodies don't produce Bone Morphogenetic Proteins anymore. ( also known as Bone Morphogenetic Proteins) In fact, the cells around our bone and cartilage start to deteriorate and degenerate (dry-up) from general "wear and tear" throughout our middle-aged years.

That's why we start to pick -up all of these "nagging little" aches and pains as our bodies age and we loose the re-building ability; the elasticity and the Bone Morpogenetic Proteins that were once there to regenerate our joints and spine.

And why Is this so important to those of us who suffer joint pain?

Bone Morphogenetic Proteins are actually a special class of protein that are vital to the creation of bone and cartilage in our bodies. These proteins are quite unlike the basic protein that makes up the majority of our bodies. Researchers discovered a very different and special class of proteins that have the ability to re-build and re-generate bone and cartilage cells - at any age!

Around 2001, The FDA approved a medical procedure utilizing these proteins for a back surgery. Instead of using the old-fashioned bone graph operation that required cutting a piece of bone from another part of the body - Doctors were successful in using Bone Morphogenetic Proteins to assist in "regenerating the cells" around a disc replacement!

To date-- there have been over 500,000 medical procedures using Bone Morphogenetic Proteins to "regenerate-the-cells" around the bone and cartilage.

In a published report from the Sixth Conference on Bone Morphogenetic Proteins, which took place in Cavtat, Croatia 2006 the following was noted: "At present, bone is the only human organ that that can be fully regenerated by exogenously applied bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) when physiological mechanisms of fracture repair fail." It goes on to say:

More than 500,000 patients worldwide have been successfully treated with recombinant BMP's for long-bone-non-unions, acute fractures and spinal fusions.

40 years of research including studies from:

- Journal of Biological Chemistry University Mississippi Medical Center-Jackson, Ms.
- Arthritis Research and Therapy American College Of Rheumatology
- Academic Department of Trauma & Orthopedics University of Leeds, U.K.
- Department of Clinical Studies University of Guelph
- Twin Research & Genetic Epidemiology Unit St. Thomas Hospital Campus
- Kings College London School Of Medicine

I'll admit, I was skeptical at first. With the previous research I had done on Bone Morphogenetic Proteins, I was leery of an oral delivery system that could extract bone activating proteins to a point that would make a positive difference -yet, at the same time, not cost $1,000 per bottle! In further investigations it seems only trace amounts are needed to regenerate bone and cartilage cells to the point where they have a positive effect on our bodies. And the cost is quite reasonable considering all that it can do!

I have found the overall satisfaction level seems to be around 95% of the users who have tried Bone Morphogenetic Proteins so far. Keeping in mind BMP's have been approved by the FDA for procedural operations since 2001 (about 500,000 medical procedures to date) It's only been two short years that the *Bone Activating Proteins have cleared the FDA for use in its current oral form. Yet they seem primed to be the "go to" pain killer for joint and back care for years to come.

My feeling is that the Bone Morphogenetic Proteins will be a big hit in the marketplace and will overtake Glucosamine and Chondroitin once word gets out that there is an alternative pain relief system that actually works! So I'm letting you in on my little discovery now because I feel compelled to tell you about it. I really like this product-- I feel that it does enough of what it says It'll do to be taken seriously.

**(I know that I'm personally feeling much better! less pain and much better mobility!) I can even standup without assistance! I recommend it if you like progressive natural products, and I also like it as part of a "smart maintenance program" --to not only maintain bone density (*like Boniva) but to regenerate bone density and cartilage ( and to do it all natural with No harmful drugs.)

I think its fair that you "check- it -out for yourself.

How Do We Finally Gain Control Of Our PAIN?

Those of us who "suffer pain" are in this "PAIN NIGHTMARE" together.... (no matter what causes the pain and discomfort) "Pain is just an unwelcomed partner we're forced to live with!" I know most of you have tried everything out there that purports to alleviate pain and you may think this particular supplement is no different than anything else you've tried. My only answer to you is Bone Morphogenetic Proteins are NOT just pain killers.

B.M.P's are the only pain supplement on the market that regenerates the bone and cartilage in the joint! *(with clinical studies to prove it.) And wouldn't it stand to reason that if your joints were rebuilt and regenerated then your "personal pain relief would FINALLY..... be a reality?

Just Remember: "Long term pain relief comes from the natural regeneration cycle of Bone Morphogenetic Proteins-and THAT is what keeps inflammation and PAIN to a bare minimum!"

Lower Back Pain - Common Causes and Treatment Options

spinal stenosis

Do you know that lower back pain is the most common ailment these days? Large number of people suffers from this painful condition at some point or the other in their life. It is indeed a matter of great concern and it should not be neglected in any manner.

If you are suffering from mild or severe lower back pain, you should certainly rush to doctor for getting relief and to lead healthy and fit life. You all would be surprised to read that back problems are on steady rise and have become as common as headache or cough but its cure is must for everyone. Before taking steps for prevention of low back pain, it is important to know about root cause of this ailment. Some of such causes are written below- have a look!

• Injury in bone, nerves of spinal cord or muscle
• Infection in lower body parts like bladder, kidney, hips and abdomen etc.
• Pregnancy
• Arthritis
• Osteoporosis
• Broken vertebrae

It is important to know about the exact cause of lower back pain before undergoing for its treatment. Doctors can offer you various pain relief ointments and creams to give you complete relief from pain.

If your pain has occurred due to deficiency in nutrients, then ask doctors to prescribe you healthy diet full of vitamin D. Moreover enriching diet with calcium rich food sources too helps in getting relief from lower back pain. You would be happy to know that certain exercises are also advised by doctors to be done on regular basis that can help in keeping the pain at bay.

You would be surprised to know that acupuncture also plays a big role in curing lower back pain along with some dietary change in your lifestyle. Yoga is again a good option to treat lower back pain. Doctors also advices hot compression technique for getting relief from pain. Apart from this, doctors may advice you with best option that suits you to treat your pain.

You can even pull out some food items from your kitchen to cure pain associated with lower back. Application of garlic oil is an amazing way to cure pain. Mix 5 tbsp of garlic oil and sesame oil with mustard or coconut oil in a pan. Now heat it over low flame with fresh cloves of garlic. Apply over your back and leave for few hours.

Take some peeled and boiled potatoes. Mash them nicely. Spread mashed potatoes on piece of gauge and cover them with other pieces. Now place them over lower back for getting relief from terrible pain.

Stenosis of the Spine - Spinal Stenosis, A Huge Spinal Problem

spinal stenosis

The spine is perhaps one of the most important groups of bones in the body, considering that it houses and protects the spinal cord, which is essential for any person to live a normal life. Any injury that may happen to the spine can have serious repercussions, such as severe back pain, which may extend from the neck, lower back, and down to the legs, weakness and a tingling sensation both often occurring in the lower extremities, permanent paralysis, and even death. One often serious problem with the spine and the spinal cord is the stenosis of the spine.

Spinal stenosis is basically the narrowing of the spinal canal, resulting in the impingement of various nerve roots and even the spinal cord, by bony spurs from fractures or other soft tissues, such as in the case of a herniated disc. Though spinal stenosis may occur anywhere in the spine, the lumbar or lower back area is the most vulnerable to spinal stenosis, which is known as lumbar spinal stenosis.

In general, spinal stenosis occurs due to a number of factors, though it is commonly caused by degenerative arthritis. Similar to the arthritis of other joints in the body, degenerative arthritis manifests as we grow older. This can lead to the loss of cartilage in the joints, formation of bone spurs, occurrence of degenerative disc disease, which is the deterioration of the spinal discs, and overgrowth of the ligamentous structures. Each of these can cause the narrowing of the spinal canal, which in turn can cause the impingement of the nerves. Other less common factors that can cause spinal stenosis are tumors, infections, and various metabolic bone disorders.

Lower back pain and weakness, numbness, pain, and loss of sensation of the lower extremities can often be experienced with spinal stenosis. In many cases, the severity of pain increases while standing or walking and diminishes when at rest, leaning forward, or lying down. Awkward positions like bending backwards can make the situation even worse. Over time, especially when caused by degenerative arthritis, spinal stenosis worsens, considering that degenerative arthritis is a progressive disease. When left untreated, the nerve impingement can lead to the Caude Equina Syndrome, which is exhibited by weakness or loss of function of the legs, as well as loss of bowel and bladder control, and loss of sexual function.

When it comes to spinal stenosis treatment, there are many readily available medications, exercises, and procedures that can improve or fix the situation. In most cases, physicians would recommend the use of various conservative treatments, such as medications for the reduction of inflammation, short courses of oral cortisone medication, and various pain medications. Some medications that are primarily used for nerve pain can also help with spinal stenosis, such as gabapentin and pregabalin. Steroid injections may even be injected directly into the affected area to reduce inflammation and swelling around the nerve tissue.

For a more drastic measure, spinal stenosis surgery may be recommended by the physician, especially when conservative treatments do not provide any relief. Basically, common surgical procedures done for spinal stenosis are laminectomy, laminotomy, and foraminotomy, which focus on removing the cause of the nerve impingement. In some cases, spinal and lumbar fusion may also be done together with the above mentioned procedures. However, many patients and physicians treat surgery as a last resort because of the many complications that may arise during and after the surgery and the long recovery period.

One of the most popular treatments for the stenosis of the spine is natural or home remedies, such as stretching exercises, physical therapy, and the use of the spinal decompression machine. Through various stretching and back strengthening movements, nerve impingement can be relieved. Spinal decompression therapy with a decompression machine can also help improve the situation by using traction on the affected area.

Can Exercises For Sciatic Nerve Pain Really Work?

spinal stenosis

Back pain is different than most any other type of pain in that it can completely shut you down. There are certain pains we can manage with, but I can personally attest that with intense back pain there are times when you literally cannot breathe or move without searing pain.

Whether your back pain is from sciatica, spinal arthritis, a herniated disc, spinal stenosis, piriformis or any other condition, the pain caused is just as real, and fortunately will yield to the same handling, which involves specific exercises for sciatic nerve pain.

Most people with intense sciatic pain will go to their doctor, and may be prescribed pain killing drugs. The problem here is that this does not handle the cause, and can also become addictive. The rapid release from pain that drugs give is also quite seductive.

Surgery is also an option offered by medical doctors; however this is expensive as well as risky, and is not guaranteed to be permanent. Chiropractic treatment is another option, but that is also potentially expensive and can drag on for long periods.

In my opinion, the best options for health are the things that you can do yourself with confidence. Confidence is only built by seeing results, and pain is a pretty undeniable gauge of results versus none.

Mike Saros is a former sciatic pain sufferer. After enduring intense crippling back pain, and surgery that did not last in its effects, Mike became determined to find a way to handle his sciatica himself. Mike discovered several exercises for sciatic nerve pain along with other techniques that completely handled his intense pain permanently.

He discovered ways to strengthen muscles that are directly involved with preventing sciatic nerve pain. There are also ways to relieve stress and tension that build up in the lower back muscles. Fortunately these techniques are very simple, and don't demand a lot of time. For instance, there is a 12-15 step routine that can be done once or twice a week that can eliminate back pain permanently.

There is no feeling like having the confidence that you know exactly how to beat and fend off debilitating and crippling sciatic back pain. Why pay doctors thousands of dollars for pills and surgeries that don't necessarily deal with the underlying set of conditions that are causing your pain? A little knowledge goes a long way when it comes to fending off back pain. Learn from someone who has been there and has conquered it, not from someone who profits from repeated expensive treatments and has never experienced back pain for themselves. Live your life to the fullest for the rest of your life.

Neck Surgery - Key Questions That You Should Know

spinal stenosis

Coping with serious neck pain can create a significant issue with regards to your health. There are several ways of alleviating pain using certain high quality neck exercise routines, which can help relieve any pain.

What you should know about neck surgery

A lot of people rely on their medical professionals hoping for pain relief drugs and realize that medicine is only a short-term cure for their neck issues. In people who are suffering with extreme neck injuries obtaining neck surgery might be the only way of getting rid of their neck troubles. So which are the important details you need to understand when it comes to neck surgery before having surgery?

Of course every surgery requires a very good surgeon to do it. To begin with, you need to start with finding a medical doctor you are very comfortable with. After that discover as much information as you can regarding the doctor. The key questions should be:

1.Just how the procedure is performed?

2.Will there be any other treatment options to avoid surgical treatment (epidural, therapy, medicines)?

3.What exactly are the dangers of possible difficulties?

You need to be asking your doctor anything you don't understand about the treatment

Two Most Common Neck Surgeries Carried Out

Anterior Cervical Discectomy

This kind of operation requires the physician to cut out all the tissue that's creating pressure on nerve fibres. Getting rid of material build up brought about by a herniated disc will instantly ease pain. The surgeon can create extra room making it possible for the nerve along with skeletal structure to move easily with no pressure.

Anterior Cervical Discectomy with Fusion

This particular surgical treatment takes away any pressure on the nerves. Like the surgical treatment above, this is when a new bone graft is implanted and in some cases a steel plate holds the spine stable while recuperation takes place.

Ahead of Having Surgery

Whether or not you decide to get the surgical treatment or not it is best to ask your physician and visit an orthopedic surgeon or a neurosurgeon ahead of undertaking the surgery.

Other Ways to Prevent Neck Surgery

The most crucial part of a potential neck surgical procedure is to discover just what sort of strategies or physical exercises you need to be trying out first before going under the knife. Neck problems can usually be treated using a number of, non surgical types of pain relief. Consider the following, neck traction, air neck traction, neck traction appliances and also neck workout routines should really be contemplated before the neck surgical procedure. You could be surprised at how purely natural solutions (with no surgical treatment) might help the neck pain to disappear.

Will The Proper Neck Traction Device Help?

Aided by the proper neck traction products you'll be able to take care of any neck pain anywhere, at any time of day and steer clear of neck surgery all together. By just working with a specific neck traction unit and with the assistance of a physicians recommended medicine you can avoid all neck surgery. In conclusion, neck surgery should be your last option. For some patients neck surgery could do more harm to your neck and even lead to lifelong injury.

Get Your Lower Back in Shape With the Right Treatment

spinal stenosis

Before getting to know about lower back pain treatment, it is important to know what the lower back is made up of. The lower back also known as the lumbar region is made up of five lumbar vertebrae, which supports the weight of the upper body. This explains why it is an area that can be easily affected when right care is not taken.

Causes And Treatments

There are various reasons that could hinder the proper functioning of your spine. Your spine could be affected due to mechanical problems, injuries, acquired conditions and diseases, infections and tumors.

The degree of pain varies from person to person and situation to situation. Understanding the type, location, and severity of your backache makes it easier to know cause and hence the treatment that needs to be used. Although in most cases the pain goes away within a few days, there are also occasions that require a more extensive medical examination followed by an appropriate treatment. Lower back pain treatments are available to counteract each of these conditions.

A normal backache is usually treated without surgery. However, lower back pain treatment may include medication, exercises and sometimes bed rest for a day or two. Medication included over-the-counter analgesics, anticonvulsants, some antidepressants. Exercise is considered one of the best options for speedy recovery from a hurting back. It helps strengthen the back and abdominal muscles. Some therapists use core stabilization, a bunch of exercises that enables the muscles of your trunk to keep your spine and body stable. These exercises not only enhance posture, balance, strength, and coordinated movement of the body, but also help to protect the body from injury.

Stay Active Stay Pain Free

Studies indicate that those who continue with their activities in spite of their backache showed signs of improvement sooner than those who stayed in bed. There is also another belief that bed rest may worsen the condition, hence it is always good to resume normal activities as soon as possible for a normal pain.

Surgery is the last option only when non-surgical methods have been unsuccessful in back pain treatment. Most surgeries are performed to treat spinal stenosis, a spinal fracture caused by an injury, a spinal infection such as ostemyelitis or an abscess, a spinal tumor or herniated discs. Here it is important to note that in most cases herniated discs can be treated without surgery.

The Minimally Invasive Lumbar Decompression (MILD) Procedure for Lumbar Spinal Stenosis

spinal stenosis

The Institute of Medicine came out with some alarming statistics recently. They showed that over one third of the United States deals with chronic pain at a cost of over $500 billion annually. This becomes a major factor in physician office visits and also because of disability and lost time from work.

The most common reason that patients over the age of 65 undergo spinal surgery procedures is due to lumbar spinal stenosis. As we move into an ever increasing cutting-edge modern age of medical technology, forging ahead with minimally invasive surgical techniques will save patients significant risks of surgery and hopefully lead to quicker better outcomes.

For lumbar spinal stenosis one of these emerging technologies is MILD, which is short for minimally invasive lumbar decompression. This procedure is meant to be minimally invasive while at the same time offering a durable option for reducing pain and increasing mobility by bringing back space in the spinal canal while maintaining structural anatomic stability.

The gold standard for lumbar spinal stenosis in surgery is a decompression procedure. This may be a laminectomy, or it may be a laminotomy which involves taking away less bone and therefore contributing less to instability. Over the years there have been numerous attempts to try and introduce minimally invasive options for lumbar decompression.

With this new minimally invasive procedure patients do not need implants put in and there is less postoperative pain, and the recovery time is more rapid. The innovative procedure can be done under local anesthesia with some conscious sedation and general anesthesia is not necessary. The area in the epidural space is visualized utilizing fluoroscopy and instruments are used to take away some of the large soft tissue that has overgrown in the spinal canal.

This procedure is a less invasive option that has a fairly low risk profile. No long-term large studies have been performed to date utilizing the MILD procedure. It remains to be seen if it shows superiority compared to the current gold standard which as mentioned is a simple laminectomy.

With a laminectomy or a laminotomy, patients are often able to go home the same day or the following day. Typically the patients are a bit older so keeping them overnight is often prudent. A lot of patients who undergo a laminectomy end up with back stiffness or pain postoperatively. Research shows this incidence to be at 50%. Potentially the MILD procedure will cause less back pain and stiffness postoperatively. This remains to be seen.

Natural Back Pain Treatment That Removes Scar Tissue on the Injured Disk

spinal stenosis

To find an effective back pain treatment is important to understand how the pain is produced in the body. The spinal chord is the portion of the central nerve system that connects the brain to almost the whole body and most sensory nerves. It is traditionally divided in 4 levels; each of the 4 levels controls the function of a particular region of the body toward the spinal nerve roots that enters and exits particular openings in the vertebra.

There are 31 pairs of spinal nerve roots arisen from the spinal chord divided in to anterior and posterior roots: 8 Cervical, 12 Thoracic, 5 Lumbar, 5 Sacral and 1 coccygeal nerve.

There are 24 separated vertebrae: 7 cervical, 12 thoracic, 5 lumbar and 5 are fused together to form the sacrum. Then another 4, the smallest vertebrae, are fused to form the coccyx. The largest are the lumbar vertebrae, which bear the most weight. It is the fifth lumbar vertebra that carries the weight of the whole upper body and transfers it to the sacrum. The main cause of back pain will occur at the fourth or fifth lumbar vertebrae.

Twenty three intervertebral discs unite the vertebral bodies from the second cervical to the first sacral vertebrae. No intervertebral disc is present between the cranium, the first and the second cervical vertebrae. These discs are specialized connective tissue structures evolved to absorb and redistribute forces applied to the spine.

The intervertebral disk is a complex structure consisting of 4 distinct tissues: the nucleus pulposus, the annulus fibrosus, the cartilaginous end plates and the adjacent vertebral bodies. The nucleus pulposus is in the center region of the disk and is comprised of a gelatinous mixture of water, collagen and proteoglycans. The nucleus pulposus is able to hold fluid pressure largely because of the presence of negatively charge groups of glycosaminoglicans chains. For the other side the annulus fibrosus is comprised of collagen fibers arranged in layers and the cartilaginous end plates are composed predominantly of hyaline cartilage.

Since the Intervertebral Disk lacks the blood supply which is essential for any normal reparative process in the body another kind of reparative mechanism is necessary to occur. Although the disk is the largest avascular structure in the human body there is considerable chemical interchange and activity there. The repaired of the injured disk is as a consequence slow because the avascular disk is always completely dependent on diffusion to adjacent vertebrae for nutrition. The cellular elements of the disc cannot receive blood nutrients thorough the mediation of the synovial fluid but must rely on a diffusion system that provides a metabolic exchange with the vessels that lie within the vertebral bodies. The cells of the disc must therefore derive their nutrients and dispose their waste metabolic products by diffusion from and to blood vessels at the disc margins.

The nucleus pulposus because of its polar properties has a great capacity to absorb and bind water. It is the nucleus, the most highly hydrated part of the disc, which contributes to the majority of the internal pressure needed to balance the applied pressure.

The intervertebral disk is a hydraulic system composed of a fibroelastic envelope containing a gel in its center. The hydrodynamics of the disk depends of the nucleus pulposus possessing a gel that contains cartilaginous cells, fibroblasts, collagen, mucopolysaccharides and proteins. The nucleus pulposus is located in an area composed of fine fiber strands that lie in a mucoprotein gel containing water, collagen and proteoglycans.

The fluid contained within the annulus is a colloidal gel that behaves as a hydraulic system. When there is an increase in pressure the fluid inside the disk moves out and when the pressure is decreased the fluid returns into the disk by absorption. Compression of the disk takes place in the annulus; if the vertebral disk is subjected to great compression the fluid leaves the nucleus. The disk has the ability to absorb large amounts of water, and the main compound involved in this process is a gel that can adhere almost many times its own volume of water. The water is attracted to the ground substance because it contains glycosaminoglycans to high osmotic pressure which can support a load just as the pressure of air supports the weight of a car. The nucleus in this way can balance the average compression forces when fully hydrated.

With aging the nucleus pulposus undergoes degeneration and dehydration, and ultimately is transformed into fibro cartilage and becomes indistinct from the inner layers of the annulus fibrosus. The disk becomes dehydrated, loses part of its mucopolysaccharides content, and shows and increase in collagen. As the nucleus pulposus degenerates is unable to distribute pressure equally over the annulus and the vertebrae. When degeneration of the nucleus is produced a major change occurs in the transmission forces along the vertical axis of the spine.

The most consist chemical modification related with aging include lost of proteoglycans and water. Disk bulge can occur when loss of water causes the disk to flatten bulge beyond its normal margin and place pressure on the nerves exiting from the spine. Cell function is damage by extreme water content either to high or too low induced by fluctuation of disk compression. Tissue volume lost from dehydration produce an increase in disk bulging and a decrease in disk height. The normal disk height is greatly reduced because of loss of proteoglycans and water content from the nucleus.

When degenerative change occurs in the disk the nucleus pulposus tends to move out usually to the weakest area of the annulus producing compression of the nerve roots and spinal canal. Degeneration leads to tissue dehydration and the breakdown of the nucleus structure resulting in a reduction of osmotic properties because the fluid exchange in the disk is control by osmotic pressure.

The effects of disk degeneration include loss of cellularity, disorganization of the extracellular matrix, morphological changes and alteration in biomechanical properties. Dehydration is also correlated with decrease in disk cellularity, disorganization of the annular layers and alteration in the density of adjacent vertebra. Damage to cells produce at the same time disruption of blood vessels that deprives nerve cells for oxygen and expose them to toxic substances.

Spinal loading can alter tissue, water content and tissue shape in the nucleus and annulus producing change in cell metabolism. Change in water content produce modification in tissue permeability, density, oxygen tension and cell shape. As a consequence the disk loses its ability to attract and retain water.

Disk stress distribution is dependent on the type of loading such as compression, flexion, lateral bending or torsion and the degree of loading. Tissue stress developed through to the spinal loading can influence its biology. Within vertebrae strength can stimulate cells to develop more bone in areas of high stress or remove bone in areas of low stress. This process is the body mechanism to optimize the density and shape of bone for a particular mechanical exposure.

Weight is transmitted to the nucleus through the hyaline cartilage plate. This structure is ideally located to this function because it is avascular. If weight were transmitted through a vascularized structure, such as bone, the local pressure would block the blood supply and progressive areas of bone would die. The intervertebral discs have a blood supply at birth but later their nutrition is taken place by diffusion from tissue fluids. The fluid shift is in both directions from the vertebral body to the disk and from the disk to the vertebral body. This ability to transfer fluid from the discs to the adjacent vertebral bodies minimizes the rise in disk pressure on sudden compression loading.

During the early years of life the nucleus has sufficient moisture to act like a gelatinous mass. With advance degeneration of the nucleus pulposus the distribution forces to the annulus are completely lost since the nucleus now has a solid structure rather than a liquid state. The forces of degeneration makes the disk less elastic and this implies that as the disk degenerates, it loses the capacity to alternate shocks and distribute the load uniformly over the entire end plate.

The distribution of forces in the abnormal and normal disk can be explained when the disk function normally as in the early decades of life the nucleus distribute the forces of compression and tension equally to all parts of the annulus, when degeneration occurs the nucleus no longer function as a perfect gel and the forces transmitted to the annulus are unequal.

Sciatica and Back Pain Treatment

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What is the Sciatica?
Sciatica is a term given to the pain experienced when the sciatic nerve is causing a person pain. Therefore let's take a look at the spine. A human spine is made up of a number of individual bones linked together with tendons. Discs cushion the bones or vertebrae. These bones and discs protect the spinal nerve and all of its tendrils that jut out of narrow openings in the spine to service the rest of your body. If a nerve becomes agitated or pinched in between the bones this results in pain. The typical vertebrae that impinge on the sciatic nerve are the L4, L5 L6 and S-1. This is the largest nerve in your body and can cause the most debilitating pain.

What are the symptoms of Sciatica?
One of the symptoms is muscle weakness and a 'pins and needles' feeling in the legs can occur or this might even be felt in the feet. Numbness can also be felt anywhere along the length of the affected leg. Pain can also be experienced with muscle cramps. Or it might just consist of intermittent shooting pains, or a sharp pain when moving in specific directions.

Can Sciatica be treated?
Yes, sciatica can be treated with surgery, chiropractic care, drugs and preventative care. The preferred method is preventative care like gentle stretching and exercise. Chiropractors offer stretching exercises. However they are usually generic and do not offer a lot of benefit to the person doing them. A better alternative is visiting an exercise therapist, physical therapist or sports therapist. They look at how the muscles are functioning and recommend activities that will promote strength in under used muscles and help relax those that are pulling your joints in inappropriate directions thereby minimizing pain.

If the pain is severe, painkillers such as the NSAIDs [Aspirin, Paracetamol, Ibuprofen, Naproxen] can help reduce the inflammation, reducing the pain as well. Stronger painkillers, prescribed by your medical advisor, can also help. These painkillers, such as Co-codamol, Tramadol, Fentanyl, Dihydrocodeine, amongst others, are much stronger and can help you get an exercise programme underway.

Probably one of the best in this group is Co-codamol because it has the inflammation reducing qualities of the NSAIDs as it contains Paracetamol and it has the benefit of the stronger painkiller, Codeine. An added advantage is that it comes in different strengths, an 8/500 strength usually being sufficient unless the pain is very severe. If this is the case, 30/500 could be prescribed by your medical advisor.

Surgery is also an option but, considering the invasive nature of this option, it is only ever considered when a full program of exercising and other conservative treatment has failed to correct the problem. This is never an option to be taken lightly - especially as the underlying cause has not been dealt with, perhaps re-occurring in a different area.

Psychosomatic Back Pain

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There is a growing epidemic of back pain plaguing the healthcare system around the world. Common back pain is the number one reason for an employee to miss work and the second most common reason for a doctor visit. Lower back pain, in particular, has created an army or partially and fully disabled individuals that have been swept under medicine's rug for far too long. Medical science has certainly excelled in the diagnosis of an abundant variety of spinal abnormalities, injuries and degenerative conditions. However, when it comes to providing treatment to the patient, symptomatic relief is the rule and a true cure is almost unheard of. The primary reason why doctors and complementary therapists have such poor treatment results when it comes to back pain relief is the vehement denial of the existence of psychosomatic pain.

The mind and the body interact constantly. Medicine acknowledges some of these interactions while ignoring others. We all know that blushing and sweating occur when we are embarrassed. The heart will race and the blood pressure will rise when we are frightened. Having a stressful day can bring on a common headache or general gastrointestinal distress. Not to mention, the entire sexual process is a series of physical reactions brought on entirely due to psychological causation. Medical professionals chose to ignore the possibility that the mind can actually create pain in the body. This separation of the intellectual, emotional and physical goes against proven scientific evidence and is the reason why doctors can not stop back pain from ruining countless lives. It is truly a case of selective knowledge based upon how this information will affect established treatments within the healthcare industry.

Acknowledging the idea that the mind can produce physical symptoms completely goes against accepted doctrine that the body is a machine which can be fine tuned by medical engineers. The mind and body interact when it is convenient for doctors to accept, but when it cuts into their economic bottom line, there is a problem. After all, back pain is big business and long term treatment regimens, which are so common for patients to endure, rack up sizeable profits. If back pain could suddenly be cured through non-medical, non-pharmaceutical and non-surgical means, what would become of this multi-billion dollar industry? It is for this reason that most medical and alternative healthcare providers continue to claim that back pain is almost always the result of some physical defect such as degenerated discs, herniated discs, spinal arthritis, facet joint degeneration, spinal stenosis, spondylolisthesis, piriformis syndrome, sacroiliac joint dysfunction, nerve compression, sciatica and the list goes on and on.

The reality of long term chronic back pain is that it is rarely caused by a physical injury or degenerative process. Sure, there may have been an injury at one time, but the chronic pain is perpetuated by the mind, not the body. The nearly universal occurrence of many of these spinal abnormalities in the population makes it difficult to take them seriously as the exclusive cause of painful symptoms. If we all have degeneration in our spines, how come only some of us develop pain? Medicine has blamed treatment-resistant back pain on these coincidental and mostly innocent back pain scapegoat conditions for too long. If the diagnosis was accurate, why do all the treatments fail? Most patients with long term pain do not recover, ever. Patients are left with growing pain, fear, dread, anxiety and an uncertain future after wasting vast quantities of time and money pursuing every possible approach to pain relief with limited or no success. It is high time for a paradigm shift in the way we view back pain and the entire mind/body process in general.

Luckily, there is a cure for this type of emotionally induced pain. It is not medical, alternative or complementary. There are no drugs, surgery or physical treatments required. Using the term made famous by Dr. John Sarno at the Rusk Institute of Rehabilitation Medicine, New York University Medical Center, the cure for psychosomatic back pain is Knowledge Therapy. This treatment involves teaching the patient why they are experiencing their pain and how to cure it themselves. The basis of the treatment comes from the field of modern psychology and therein lies the conflict with physical medical science. Patients are taught to uncover and deal with repressed feelings, memories, and emotionally charged sensitive issues in their subconscious minds. It is these issues that create the need for physical symptoms in order to protect the individual's consciousness from feeling the full burden of repressed emotional pain locked away in the mind. In essence, Knowledge Therapy takes the ability to heal out of the hands of doctors and places it successfully into the needy and eternally grateful hands of suffering patients. If you are agonizing over unresolved treatment-resistant back pain, learn more about this revolutionary therapy that has changed the lives of millions, including this author.

The Various Categories for Low Back Pain

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Diagnostic Categories for Low Back Pain (LBP)

Back pain represents a tremendous problem in the US which can be extremely frustrating for both patients and medical providers. Patients have to live with the pain and providers need to diagnose why the pain is occurring. Finding the cause of pain, known as the pain generator, is not easy despite all the diagnostic techniques and studies modern medicine has to offer.

Thankfully, even if the exact cause is not known for certain, 90% of LBP resolves on its own within 6 to 12 weeks. Help can be obtained with physical therapy, chiropractic treatment, spinal decompression, pain medications, and interventional pain management.

In 2007, the American College Physicians along with the American Pain Society issued comprehensive joint clinical practice guidelines for the diagnosis and treatment of LBP.

Low Back Pain (LBP) should be placed initially into one of three categories. These include:

1) Nonspecific LBP - this can be occurring from a spinal disc problem like degenerative disc disease, facet joint disease, degenerative spinal arthritis, or a stress fracture or acute fracture like a vertebral compression fracture.

2) LBP potentially associated with radiculopathy (radiating pain into the legs also called sciatica) or spinal stenosis. Spinal stenosis may be associated with slippage of one vertebrae on another which is called degenerative spondylolisthesis.

3) Back pain potentially associated with another specific spinal cause that may be very serious and require immediate or emergency evaluation

a. Tumor

b. Infection

c. Fracture

d. Cauda Equina Syndrome

e. Other spinal issues like ankylosing spondylitis

f. Problems outside the back such as pancreatitis, aneurysm, systemic illness, kidney stone, etc.

In the primary care setting, LBP is caused by cancer 0.7% of the time, infection 0.01% of the time, vertebral compression fracture 4% of the time, spinal stenosis 3%, herniated disc 4%, and cauda equina syndrome 0.04%. Upwards of 85% of the time, no definitive diagnosis for the low back pain can be established.

In the initial visit and starting the workup for what's causing low back pain, it is important for the pain doctor to effectively categorize the type of pain in order to achieve the proper diagnosis to maximize treatment success.

Is the Pain in My Hip Coming From a Hip Problem or From My Back?

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When a person has pain going into the hip area, it may not be emanating from the hip itself. The pain may actually be coming from a problem that is occurring in the low back and the resulting pain is radiating into a person's hip region. The problem may not be causing any low back pain so it can be difficult to delineate where the actual problem is coming from.

In order to treat the pain most effectively, it is necessary to figure out where the problem is emanating from. In the doctor's office a physical examination can show usually if the patient has arthritis of the hip. With hip arthritis often times range of motion of the hip is very painful and there are specific maneuvers which can show this. There are also additional physical exam maneuvers which can show a problem such as sacroiliac joint arthritis. Along with this, plain x-rays raise of the hip joint will typically show moderate to severe arthritis and people have pain in the area or potentially going down into the side.

Outside of hip arthritis pain, an individual might have some other derangement inside the hip joint including a cartilage tear otherwise known as a labral tear.

If the person's pain is not coming from the hip, there's a good chance it's coming from a problem in the low back. This may be from a nerve root compression or potentially several nerve roots are being pinched such as in spinal stenosis.

Spinal stenosis may cause no pain in the lower back itself, but radiating pain going down around the hip area. So the two may be mistaken for each other, or they may actually co-exist.

An MRI of the low back can show if nerve roots are being pinched. This may explain the patient's hip pain especially if there is is no evidence of arthritis and the exam does not display pain with hip range of motion.

One way to tell the difference is to have a pain management doctor do a diagnostic injection into the hip itself. This may be done with numbing medicine along with some steroid. The numbing medicine should kick in within just a few minutes so if the patient describes there being much less pain afterwards it probably was the hip being the culprit.

If the hip injection does not help, and the needle was reasonably assured of being inside the joint, then the next step would be an epidural injection to see if the pain was coming from the low back. This is done as an outpatient procedure, and can tell very nicely if the pain relief occurs into the hip area.

So between the two diagnostic injections, pain doctors can often get a very good picture of whether or not the pain is coming from the hip by itself, the spine by itself, or a combination of the two. Then treatment efforts can be catered towards the definitive diagnosis.

Sciatica From Herniated Discs

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Sciatica from herniated discs is one of the main diagnostic theories used to explain the majority of lower body radiculopathy issues. Sciatica, by definition, is nerve pain and related symptoms sourced in the spine, but experienced in the buttocks, legs and/or feet. Being that disc desiccation and herniations are virtually universal in the lumbar spinal region, it is no surprise that almost every person with sciatica symptoms will also have disc issues which may be blamed for their occurrence. However, research statistics clearly reveal little, if any, correlation between intervertebral disc issues and any variety of back pain, including sciatica.

Herniated discs can result from injury or normal spinal degeneration. Herniations are most common in the lower cervical and lower lumbar intervertebral levels. Herniated discs at L4/L5 and L5/S1 are the most prevalent targets of blame for sourcing sciatica pain. While it is certainly possible that a bulging or ruptured disc can enact sciatica pain, tingling, weakness or numbness in the back, buttocks, legs or feet, most herniations are coincidental to any pain experienced. This has been proven time and time again in more clinical studies than can be cited. However, this does not stop even the most innocent minor herniations from being theorized as the cause of pain in many sciatica sufferers.

A herniated disc unto itself is not painful. Traumatic injury to the back pain can surely cause pain and a fresh disc injury may hurt for a while. However, unless the disc influences some other spinal structure, the pain is not likely to last for more than a few weeks. The possible mechanisms which can create chronic pain in herniated disc patients are as follows:

* Spinal stenosis can reduce or cut off nerve supply of the actual spinal cord, possibly enacting dire symptoms. Although diagnosed often in combination with herniations, actual symptomatic spinal stenosis is more often the result of arthritic osteophyte buildup within the spinal canal.

* Foraminal stenosis is the proverbial pinched nerve. In these cases, the disc bulges into the space through which the spinal nerve roots leave the spinal column. In many cases, the disc is said to "impinge", "encroach upon" or "compress" the affected nerve root. The result may be painful short term, but will enact complete objective numbness and weakness in a specific set of muscular tissues in the long term. Once again, this rarely occurs and most pinched nerve diagnoses do not even account for the lack of correlation between symptoms experienced and symptoms expected.

* Chemical radiculitis is thought to exist in some patients with particularly sensitive neurological tissues. This diagnosis comes into play when a ruptured disc or disc with an annular tear spills the nucleus proteins unto nearby nerve tissues. This protein may be irritating to some people, but not others. Chemical radiculitis is a highly controversial theory of pain which may apply in some cases, but not in all. Even when the diagnosis is accurate, it would not likely explain sciatica pain, but may provide an answer to localized back pain.

* Discogenic pain may be diagnosed when the small nerves in the endplates are affected mechanically or when they are exposed to irritating protein inside the disc. In some cases, these endplate nerves may grow into the disc, enacting pain. However, being that these nerves are so small and not known for their sensory properties, this theory is once again highly controversial and would never explain sciatica, since these nerves are localized only.

Sciatica is a radiculopathy process, and like most nerve pain issues, is rarely traced back to definitive structural compression concerns. In my experience, the majority of patients with any type of lower body radiculopathy are not suffering from a spinal causation, but are instead being victimized by a regional oxygen deprivation syndrome which is affecting the entire sciatic nerve. This explains both the treatment-resistant nature of the pain, as well as the typical symptoms which are far too widespread to be explained from the working medical diagnosis. I routinely advise many patients to consider this explanation for their pain if they have tried everything for their diagnosed condition and have not found lasting relief...

Thoracic Spine Pain - Five Tips to Beat It!

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Thoracic spine pain affects so many of us, and with an increasingly sedentary lifestyle this can only get worse. So often, back pain solutions and exercises are aimed at the more easily mobilized lower back, but this article is specifically about ways to relieve upper back pain.

Hunched over a desk or in front of a computer, or hours spent driving can all contribute to that stabbing discomfort between the shoulder blades. Thoracic spine pain is very often caused by bad posture, especially while seated, leading to imbalances in the complex muscle, joint and ligament structures in that area. Paying attention to correct posture is helpful, but making sure all the muscles are toned and the vertebrae correctly aligned should bring about better posture automatically. Here are five of the best approaches to beating this limiting condition for good...

1. Chiropractic. If the thoracic pain is severe or chronic and you need a kick-start, chiropractors can sometimes offer instant relief in this area. However, chiropractic should be used like a service for your car - it needs to be done, but in between services, you need to take responsibility and keep your spine in good condition yourself.

2. Light weight training. The thoracic spine is harder to mobilize than the lumbar spine, so certain specific exercises need to be done. I have found that a one-arm row using a dumbbell or other improvised weight works wonders for getting the muscles loosened and improving blood flow to the area. Do a couple of sets in the mornings as a warm up before stretching.

3. Yoga. Many of the yoga postures help to relieve thoracic pain. The simple seated forward bend can be a great relief, as can the shoulder stand and plough positions, which extend the thoracic area in a way that's hard to do with any other method.

4. Inversion tables. These wonderful inventions are a godsend for the lower back, but can be just as good for the thoracic spine too, reversing the crushing strain of gravity that can contribute to all these conditions. Go get one!

5. Hanna Somatic Movement Education. This fantastic way of balancing the entire body is so incredibly gentle you might think it's not doing much, but it is perhaps the most complete system for keeping the body pain-free. Find out more about it at the link below.

Of course diet is also a contributing factor, and to learn about foods that cause inflammation and alkalising foods that reduce inflammation is one of the best things we can do in our search for perfect health. Add to that the knowledge of your Ayurvedic body type and how the Ayurvedic doshas relate to food choices, and you will be well on the way to super health!

Focus on Spinal Stenosis

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Spinal Stenosis is a condition caused by the narrowing of the spinal canal causing the nerves to be pinched - leading to persistent pain in the buttocks, limping, lack of feeling in the lower extremities and decreased physical activity. There are several forms of lumbar spinal stenosis. The most common is degenerative stenosis, which occurs in virtually the entire adult population as a result of the natural process of aging. As the body dehydrates with age, bones become less dense and the discs of the spine loose mass. The discs compress, causing tilting, slippage and rotation of vertebral bodies. This results in compression of the spinal sac and nerve roots. As these narrowing results in a compression of the spinal nerve and nerve roots, this in turn causes a wide range of symptoms.

Congenital lumbar stenosis relatively rare and presents at an early age, often between 30 and 40. Acquired Lumbar Stenosis is more common and develops when patients are in their 60's or older. It is a puzzling condition - as it can neither be predicted nor prevented and does not distinguish between sex, race or ethnicity.

Don't forget to check the pulses of all patients to rule out vascular claudication, or check for hip osteoarthritis.

Symptoms

• Dull to severe aching pain in the lower back or buttocks when walking or doing other activities


• Pain radiating into one or both thighs and legs Numbness, weakness or paraesthesia involving the lower extremities


• Symptoms relieved by bending forward, sitting or lying down Pain relievers tend to be ineffective Gradually reducing walking distance.

Treatment

• Conservative measures can be tried first. These include pain killers and anti-inflammatory medication and physiotherapy.


• Physical therapy is usually ineffective in most cases. If conservative measures do not work injections- epidural or a nerve root may be offered to inject some local anaesthetic and steroids around the inflamed nerve.


• If these measures do not work surgery may be considered to take the pressure off the nerve and stabilise the spine.


• This operation is called a lumbar decompression and stabilisation. Posterior Lumbar Disc Replacement represents a significant recent development in the treatment of lumbar degenerative conditions. Posterior lumbar disc replacement is designed to replace degenerative discs and facets of the lumbar spine.


• The surgery takes 2-4 hours, hospital stay is 1-3 days, and more than 90% of patients report significant improvement in their symptoms, particularly their ability to walk.

Spinal stenosis video animation

Osteopathy and Low Back Pain

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Over the course of our lifetime more than 80% of us will suffer at least one episode of low back pain that will last for more than 2 weeks. When this occurs we are often at a loss regarding what we should do and how we can regain our health. This article will identify structures that cause pain and advise on what we can do to prevent it worsening or reoccurring.

I graduated as an osteopath in 1999 from the British School of Osteopathy in London following a 4 year full time degree in osteopathy. I'm currently in practice in downtown Vancouver. During my training and subsequent practice I have observed that osteopathic treatment can be very beneficial in the management of low back pain. In fact I often describe it to my patients as the bread and butter of my business as it is such a common presentation.

When a patient presents with low back pain I will be considering the following structures that may be causing the pain:- muscle, ligament, disc, nerve, bone or joint.

Muscle pain may be due to local injury or trauma caused by overstrain whilst exercising or lifting. Muscle pain can also be caused by chronic hypertonicity of the intrinsic and extrinsic muscles of the spine as they compensate and protect another injured structure.

The posterior spinal ligaments can often be strained due to poor lifting technique or damaged in the long term by poor posture and prolonged slouching whilst sitting.

Our intervertebral discs take an enormous amount of trauma over the course of our lives and they can be damaged leading to mild injuries such as a disc bulge to the more serious, a full herniation. The intervertebral discs are commonly injured whilst lifting poorly when we combine spinal flexion and rotation which causes a shearing force on the disc fibres causing them to tear. At different times of our lives we are prone to different types of disc injuries from the late teens and early twenties when our discs are at their healthiest to gradual degeneration and wear as we age.

Nerve fibres are often damaged by surrounding structures such as the disc and bone. There is a very limited space in the intervertebral foramina where the nerve exits and any space occupying lesion can lead to nerve root irritation and pain. Most commonly a herniating disc will protrude and touch the nerve causing pain. As we age and our discs naturally degenerate this can lead to spondylosis a decrease in disc space which in turn allows the spinal joints to proximate which leads to wear and tear which may impinge the nerve. When a lower lumbar nerve root is impinged typically we will get pain into the posterior part of our lower extremity and into our foot. Typically when the L5 disc herniates it impinges on the L5/S1 nerve root giving pain into the lower extremity. When the nerve is injured it can produce pain, altered sensation such as numbness or pins and needles, muscle fatigue or weakness. In more serious cases a serious complication known as cauda equina can develop which causes pain in the lumbar spine, saddle anaesthesia (numbness around the groin and genital area) and urinary incontinence. This requires immediate surgical decompression as prolonged pressure on the nerve that supplies the bladder can lead to permanent incontinence.

As we age there can also be a narrowing of the spinal canal which leads to spinal stenosis. This can restrict the spinal cord and cause symptoms usually bilaterally into the lower extremity.

Bone can produce pain in a variety of ways. There can be fracture pain from either trauma or perhaps in old age pathological fracture due to osteoporotic change. There can also be congenital malformations of the spine such as spondolisthesis or spina bifidae which typically affect the lumbar spine. Finally and most seriously bone pain in the spine can be caused by metastatic growth or secondary spinal cancers, this however is rarely a presenting symptom.

Lumbar spinal joints can also cause pain locally and referred pain into the lower extremity. Joint pain is caused when the joints are forced together in hyperextension or in old age when due to disc narrowing they proximate. As the apophyseal joints between each vertebrae are pain sensitive pain and discomfort occurs when they are forced together. This is a major cause of arthritic pain in the elderly.

So that's the bad news, what about some good?

Well osteopathy can help most of the conditions above. On your first visit to an osteopath they will take a detailed case history regarding your low back pain and general medical history. This will help to form a diagnosis and also exclude the possibility of any serious pathology. In a small number of cases an osteopath may refer you to another specialist if indicated for further testing.

After the initial assessment an osteopath will usually examine your posture to determine any areas that may be causing strain on the low back. They will also use a highly developed sense of touch known as palpation to assess tissue health. The next step is to examine a patients range of active movement to see if there are any restrictions.

Once a diagnosis has been made the treatment begins. This will usually involve a variety of hands on massage techniques along with spinal mobilization and manipulation if indicated. The treatment is not usually painful but there may be some discomfort during and after as the tissues are mobilized. Osteopathic treatment will focus on improving the blood supply to tissues to help them heal and also releasing the surrounding structures which may be preventing effective functioning.

Following treatment to the lumbar spine an osteopath will usually give advice on exercise and ergonomics. I usually give my patients the following advise following treatment:-

1). If there is pain and discomfort following treatment do not be alarmed as this is normal. In some cases anti-inflammatory or pain killing medication may be beneficial.

2). If there is pain icing is beneficial in the first 48 hours following treatment or injury. After this time I usually recommend contrast bathing (5mins hot, 5 mins cold, 5 mins hot, 5 mins cold, 5 mins hot) on the affected area to improve fluid drainage.

3). Keep up and mobile don't go home and lie down or sit for too prolonged periods.

4). Gentle exercise such as lying flat and bringing the knees up to the chest and gently rocking can help mobilize the spine.

In the long term I will be looking to improve my patients overall health by encouraging them to exercise more. By working on our abdominal muscles and improving core stability some back pain can be relieved. I will also spend a great deal of time discussing ergonomics with them, how they relate to their environment be it at work or at home, and how they can maintain their pain free state. Periodic treatments may also be beneficial in certain circumstances.

In conclusion should you find yourself suffering from low back pain consider osteopathy with a well qualified practitioner as it is safe, simple and effective.

Lumbar Decompression - What is It?

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Lumbar decompression refers to a group of surgical procedures whose primary goals are to provide pain relief and bone stability in those who have suffered injury or disease involving the lumbar portion of the spine.

The lumbar spine consists of five individual vertebra and begins at the last vertebra that is attached to a rib and ends at the top of the pelvis. Between each vertebra is a structure that serves as a "shock absorber" called an intervertebral disc, or simply a disc. The disc also provides a space between the vertebra where the spinal nerves emerge before branching out into other areas of the body.

Due to its location and the fact that we humans walk upright, the lumbar spine is subjected to considerable stress and strain throughout our lives. In many cases the lumbar spine survives these stresses and strains without problem by repairing itself. However, trauma and disease may cause damage to a vertebra and/or disc that the body is incapable of repairing. In these cases lumbar decompression surgery may be necessary.

In many cases of lumbar spine disease the spinal nerve is compressed between two vertebra. It is this compression that causes the symptoms of spinal disease such as pain or loss of sensation in the legs. Surgical treatment of lumbar spine disease is targeted at relieving this compression and preventing its recurrence.

Traditional lumbar decompression surgery usually involves removal of tall or part of he disc and the insertion of a piece of bone to stabilize the position of the vertebra. Occasionally "hardware" such as screws or metal rods will be necessary to fully stabilize the spine. This is known as lumbar laminectomy and spinal fusion. There are a number of variations of this surgery that can be tailored to the needs of the individual patient.

More recently, lumbar decompression has been accomplished by what are known as minimally invasive surgeries. These procedures seek to relieve pain by directly focusing on the small areas that are responsible for the patients symptoms. A special instrument called an endoscope is used to visualize the area responsible for the patient's symptoms and the necessary surgery, including the insertion of screws or plates, is done "through the 'scope."

Minimally invasive procedures include:

-mini-laminectomy: only the portion of the disc that is directly compressing the nerve is removed via a small incision in the back

-chemical laminectomy: a special chemical compound is injected directly into the disc causing the disc to "shrink" or dissolve

-mini-fusion: similar to the traditional fusion operation but done through an endoscope and using smaller hardware

Some cases of lumbar disease are due to damage to the vertebra itself. The "collapsing" vertebra commonly seen in osteoporosis and the lumbar compression fractures seen in professional truck drivers are particular examples of these conditions. These two conditions are now being treated with a procedure known as vertebroplasty.

In vertebroplasty a special "bone cement" is injected directly into the veretbra itself to prevent further collapse. This is usually done after other corrective procedures such as laminectomy or fusion have been completed. Many patients report a dramatic decrease in pain following vertebroplasty.

Further information on lumbar decompression is available from your personal health care provider.

How To Relieve Sciatic Nerve Pain

spinal stenosis

What Is Sciatica?

If you are feeling pain running from your lower back down to your buttocks and to your legs, you may already have a condition that is called sciatic nerve pain, or pinched nerve in the lower spine, or simply sciatica.

The sciatic nerve is the body's biggest nerve. It extends from the spinal cord down to the back of the legs and ending at the foot. This explains why if it gets pinched or irritated, pain shoots all over the back and lower extremities. Some experience numbness in the affected parts which may become extremely painful when subjected to sudden movement, while others report excruciating pain that leave them practically immobile for days.

What Causes Sciatica?

To treat this condition, it is important to understand the causes of it. Some of the common causes of sciatic nerve pain are herniated disc, spinal stenosis and degenerative disc disease.

Herniated disc or slipped disc usually occurs when one makes a sudden twisting motion or when the back is subjected to a forceful blow or impact, as in the case of vehicular accidents. Sciatic nerve pain is the most common symptom of a slipped disc and may need serious attention.

Another cause of sciatic nerve pain is spinal stenosis or the narrowing of the spinal canal which restricts the spinal cord. People aged 60 and above are prone to getting this condition. Another age-related cause of sciatic nerve pain is degenerative disc disease. This occurs when a weakened disc along the spinal cord results in excessive minute movements that expose inflammatory proteins that irritate the sciatic nerve roots.

Pain Relief for Sciatica

Pilates Exercises

A gentle exercise such as Pilates warms up and strengthens the back and abdominal muscles that support the spinal cord. Pilates targeted towards these muscle groups prevents tightening which contribute to pinched sciatic nerve. Regular Pilates helps you recover more quickly and may prevent future sciatic episodes from flaring up.

Rest

Rest in this case means minimizing movements and avoiding carrying heavy objects. Lying on the bed, unless it is flat and hard, is a no-no because the cushion only aggravates the pinched nerve. Complete bed rest is not recommended. If you have to sit, use a chair with a well supported back. Remember to take everything slowly and carefully, and don't do anything - sitting, standing, or walking for too long.

Use Heat Pad Or Take Warm Shower

Applying heat is a great sciatic nerve pain relief. Adjust your heating pad to low or medium heat then use on affected part for 15 to 20 minutes every 3 hours. You may take a warm shower as an alternative to a cycle of the heat pad.

If the sciatic nerve pain lasts more than a month and if the pain has become intolerable, you may have to see a pain relief specialist who are well versed in anatomy of the body and can perform a combination of myofascial release as well as Pilates exercises that can provide pain relief.

Obesity As a Source of Back Pain and Sciatica - The Bad Back Guy

spinal stenosis

Back pain and sciatica affect millions of Americans every year. Half a million Americans undergo life changing surgery as a result of the pain, only thirty to thirty-five percent of individuals undergoing surgery reclaim anything approaching a normal, pain-free life. It is important to understand the causes of back pain and sciatica, how to effectively treat the causes, and to know when to see a medical practitioner. The cause of back pain and sciatica to be discussed in this article is obesity. It must be noted that there a myriad of causes, some requiring immediate medical intervention, others requiring a systematic program for recovery, we will discuss the others in future articles. Significantly, the solutions to many of these problems are not that much different, we will explore some of them here.

Obesity has long been recognized as one of the principle causes of back pain and sciatica in adults. Remarkably, as our society gets heavier and obesity reaches epidemic proportions, children are also affected, expressing many of the same symptoms of back pain, and even sciatica, as a consequence of early onset, childhood obesity, and in record numbers. However, it is adults we are primarily concerned with here, and there is a clear and demonstrable link between obesity and back pain among adults in our society. According to the American Obesity Association (AOA), approximately one hundred and ninety-six million adults are considered overweight or obese in the United States, that's a staggering sixty-four percent of the population, up from forty-six percent (46%) between 1976 and 1980. In addition to back pain and sciatica directly, obesity may also be a contributing factor in a number of other diseases affecting the spine, diseases such as spinal stenosis, degenerative disc disease, osteoarthritis, osteoporosis, spondylolisthesis, and there is even the suggestion of a link between rheumatoid arthritis and obesity in adults, and children.

The spine is divided into four sections or regions, these regions have what are called curvatures, either primary or secondary curvatures. The primary curvatures are the thoracic or mid-chest region, and sacral or "tail bone." The secondary curvatures are the cervical or neck and the lumbar or lower back. The curvatures are either set prior to birth, as in the case of the primary curvatures or develop in the first year of life, as in the case of the cervical and lumbar curvatures. The spine is meant to support the body as we stand upright, the neck and lower back being the areas at greatest risk due to their natural, weight bearing curvatures and responsibilities. When too much weight is loaded, the back is forced to carry the additional burden, this leads to structural failure and damage, as in the case of herniated discs or even crushed vertebrae. At the very least, the muscles meant to support the back, some quite small and not meant to carry such a heavy load for long periods, are compromised, leading to strain and, in the low back or lumbar region, sway back or lordosis. Imagine putting on a backpack, face front instead of on your back, now load that backpack with bowling balls, one at a time for every ten pounds of extra weight you are carrying. It's not something you would want to have to carry around all day; and yet, that is exactly what you are doing when you carry extra weight.

Lack of exercise and conditioning, often associated with overweight or obese back pain and sciatica sufferers, leads to an entire complex of consequences. Increased lordosis or sway back, combined with poor flexibility and weak, atrophied or shrunken muscles in the back, primarily the lower back, the hips, thighs, and even calves, leads to improper load bearing and a feedback loop that contributes to more pain, which contributes to more inactivity, which leads to more pain. You get the picture, I hope? This pain complex, with its associated consequences, can increase the secondary curvature of the lower back or lordosis, and may even cause the hips (pelvis) to tilt too far forward and down, causing additional pain. This pelvic tilt, combined with the lordosis or sway back, is detrimental to proper posture of the individual and, as posture disintegrates, other curvatures of the spine, the neck for instance, may become increasingly painful.

Many back pain and sciatica sufferers attempt to downplay the etiology or cause of some or all of their back problems, disorders, and diseases as a natural consequence of aging. It is true that with age-progressive phenomena exist and take place in and on the spine and related musculature. However, much of this is an adaptive response to weakening muscles, muscles that can and should be exercised in order to avoid atrophy and a whole series of problems associated with obesity and aging. There is one thing that is an absolute certainty, if you are carrying extra weight, whether overweight or obese, chances are you have, or will have, back pain and sciatica.

What is Laser Back Surgery?

spinal stenosis

Spine or back is an extremely sensitive organ in the human body that requires good care and attention so as to remain healthy. Or else, one might need to face the risk of going under the surgeon's knife. For years, surgeons have practiced back surgery as a lengthy and painful procedure that requires large incisions to be made on the back. As a result of this invasive treatment, patients had to remain hospitalized for weeks. Many times, patients also had to undergo an extensive and painful rehabilitation program so as to recuperate from the effects of surgery. Modern medical science has come a long way since then. With the evolution and use of Arthroscopic or Laser backs surgery, treating spinal disorders is no more a laborious process both for the doctor as well as the patient.

Arthroscopic or laser therapy was first used in the 1970s while operating on knees and shoulders. This treatment involves use of arthroscope, a tiny tube that is inserted into the body through a small incision made around the area that needs to be treated. Over this small tube, a series of large tubes are sequentially placed. The last tube that enters the hole is of the size of a pencil. The entire objective of this procedure is to dilate the skin and the internal muscle tissues rather than tearing them away. Once the last tube is inserted, all the other tubes are removed. Through the final translucent working tube are inserted fiber optic cameras, lasers, suction and other microscopic instruments using which the entire operation is performed by the surgeon. All these instruments can be electronically operated and are connected to a robotic arm.

At present, there are four different arthroscopic or laser back surgery procedures being practiced around the world. These include:

Foraminotomy:
Used for treating conditions such as nerve root compressions, foraminal stenosis, pinched nerves, herniated discs, scar tissue formation, spinal arthritis and sciatica.

Laminotomy:
This procedure is used for removing neural compression and other conditions that can lead to spinal stenosis. This procedure is also used for herniated discs, bone spurs (osteophytes) herniated discs, scar tissue formation and spinal arthritis.

Percutaneous Arthroscopic Disectomy:
In this procedure, pressure that develops on the spinal cord and nerve roots is removed surgically using a laser.

Facet Thermal Ablation:
This procedure is used in the treatment of facet disease. Also, conditions such as facet joint syndrome, facet hypertrophy, facet arthritis, and degenerated facet joints can be treated using this procedure. In this surgery, a surgeon uses a laser beam for destroying a spinal nerve that causes pain in the joints.

Laser back surgery is primarily an endoscopic procedure that is advantageous in many ways. Most importantly, this procedure neither involves any large incisions on the skin nor requires the administration of general anesthesia. The entire surgery is performed through a small hole and gets completed within one hour under the influence of localized anesthesia. In this procedure, there is minimal amount of muscle and other soft tissue damage. Other benefits include less bleeding during surgery, minimal amount of blood loss at the time of surgery, less scar tissue formation and quick recovery. Even the risks or complications are very low with laser back surgery. Also, the patient is not required to spend days and weeks in the hospital and undergo the postoperative discomfort.

How to Treat Bulging Disc In The Neck Symptoms

spinal stenosis

You may notice a pain which develops in your neck from time to time. When the pain that you are feeling becomes permanent, it might be time to consider some form of relief. It is good to know that you can cure even some of the worst bulging disc in the neck symptoms through the use of therapy that you can administer at home. It does not matter if the problem is spinal or cervical, through these treatments you can potentially start to feel better straight away.

To avoid something as serious as having to get surgery for your back, there are many ways you can find relief for your neck pains. To get relief from a herniated disc, you can try something as simple as changing the way that you sleep. You could also try a variety of exercises designed to take some of the strain off your back. Through these different methods, everything short of ruptured discs can be quickly and easily cured. You will be happy when you get the relief from the bulging disk causing you pain.

Changing Sleeping Habits

When you are suffering from herniation, it is hard to think that something like sleeping on a hard surface could be the actual cure to the problem. In fact, even in cases where you are dealing with spinal stenosis, you can get relief through this simple realignment procedure. Just make sure to sleep on a hard mattress or a board of some description and it is likely to improve if not totally remove your pain. Another consideration is the types of pillows you are sleeping on. Getting the right kind of neck support can make all the difference in the world. The overall idea is to get the spine as straight as possible while you are resting at night.

Getting relief through stretches

Another great way to treat your bulging disc in the neck symptoms is to learn a few simple stretches. The point of the exercise is to bring your back and neck back into alignment. Exercises which include reaching high above your head and bending the back have been found to help with getting rid of the pain. The more that you research and understand potential cures, the greater your chance of getting relief from your symptoms. It is very important though to see a doctor if the pain persists over time and there are no signs of improvement.

Reducing Neck and Back Pain With Spinal Decompression Therapy

spinal stenosis

Gravity, back injuries, and physical activity cause pressure on the spinal column, and over time this leads to narrowing channels in the spinal column area. Spinal decompression therapy is for relieving the pressure on the spine, which can lead to sciatica and herniated discs. The process of compression is called spinal stenosis, and it causes pain, bulged discs, and the aforementioned other problems.

One reason why spinal decompression is helpful is it addresses the exact problem leading to back pain at the point of need. While the spine is compressed, it cuts off the flow of blood and nutrients between the vertebrae, which leads to damage and deterioration. Blood flow is necessary for every part of the body to function properly.

How Spinal Decompression Therapy Works

The patient is strapped to a table, which allows pressure to be placed on certain areas that work oppositely from the existing compression of the spine. A computer controls how the pressure is applied based on the area causing the pain. Although the process is not an immediate fix, it will force the vertebrae apart so blood can once again deliver nutrients where they are needed.

The spinal decompression table often is instrumental in relieving the pain and restoring the flow of fluids, negating the need for surgery. In many cases, the process fixes the problem permanently so that future treatments are not necessary.

Who Is A Candidate for Spinal Decompression Therapy?

Pinched nerves, degenerative disc disease, herniated discs, and sciatica are often the result of injuries that cause sudden and traumatic pressure on the spinal column. Automobile accidents and falls are primary reasons for back injury, but bad body posture and mechanics also lead to problems when they are not addressed. Many back problems come from age and the results of hard labor.

Spinal decompression therapy is only an option before pins, metal rods, or screws are placed in the back. Fractures are not treatable with decompression and diseases such as myelitis cannot be addressed either.

Those who have attempted other non-surgical methods for relieving back pain may find decompression helpful. Medications, exercise, diet, and steroid shots are often some of the first attempts to solve back problems. If they fail, decompression is a good choice before any consideration of surgery.

Anyone who undergoes spinal decompression must understand that it is a commitment. It can be costly and repetitive, but the only way it is helpful is if appointments are kept and the doctor's orders are followed closely.

Back Pain and Osteopathy

spinal stenosis

Back pain has become a very common complaint the world over and is blamed on the modern lifestyle. It's a pain that causes disability in both active and inactive people, especially those who are past middle age. The costs of health system expenditure have been rising and back problems are the leading cause of this rise.

Your back is the part of your body that starts from the back of your neck and shoulders down to the top of your buttocks. Your spinal canal is located down the centre of the spine where your nerves are attached. These nerves are the transmitters of pain signals to your brain. Back pain is a symptom ranging from a dull, annoying ache to debilitating pain that may be caused by many things, including simple stress on the muscles and ligaments or some underlying medical condition. The pain can sometimes be acute, swiftly coming and going. Alternatively your pains may be termed as chronic, lingering for an extended period of time. This pain can be focused in either your upper back or the lower back.

Lower back pain is localised to your lower back, typically beginning from the lumbar or spinal region, down the flank, the buttocks, the hips or the groin. Radiating pain down the legs into the feet can also be traced to lower back problems. It can bring a feeling of numbness or "pins and needles" or what is known as "falling asleep of the limbs" in your lower leg or foot. Your pains may also be associated with changes in bowel motions.

Other sources of back pain can be an injury either inflicted or from an accident, a herniated disc or other spinal disc injury from degeneration and aging that may have caused rupture to the disc sac or a bulging disc. Medical conditions like urinary tract infections, gynaecological or prostatic disorders can also be the root cause of your pain. Another reason why a person will experience these pains is a condition called pelvic imbalance. Frequent poor posture causes one side of the body, its muscles and ligaments to develop more than the other side. This imbalance sometimes results in muscle spasm or nerve irritation which causes pain.

Upper back pain, on the other hand is pain on the upper part of the torso, including the shoulder blades and lower neck. This is also associated with the "pins and needles" symptoms and numbness in the upper limbs, arms down to the fingers. Headaches, migraines, chest pains, reflux or shortness of breath are some of the other symptoms associated with back problems. Poor posture and pelvic imbalance may also cause upper pain. In some cases, underlying medical conditions such as heart disease may also contribute. This can also combine with blackouts, tingling down the left arm, jaw pain and dizziness. A General Practitioner should be immediately consulted when a patient is having these symptoms.

For your back pain and back related problems, osteopaths are there to address your pelvic imbalance and disc injuries. Osteopathy can help you by re-aligning your pelvis, hips and lower back. This process stimulates the nervous system and thus may also help urinary tract infections, bowel disorders, gynaecological and prostate problems.

Osteopathy considers your physical needs to treat your upper back directly but also looks at the lower back and neck to make sure that the problem is not originating from there. They will take a look at your thoracic spine, rib alignment and your lower back alignment in a holistic approach to treating back pain.

Osteopaths also prescribe stretching and other exercises designed to prevent further pain. One of the fastest growing specialties in Australia addressing allied health problems is the practice of Osteopathy.