Archive for November, 2011
Wednesday, November 30th, 2011
Sure, road trips can be fun, but lets admit it – that they can also be filled with unpleasant factors like screaming kids, constant bathroom breaks, and back pain. Back pain in the car is very common amongst both passengers and drivers, and can be triggered by something as simple as the position of your buttocks or legs.
It is common knowledge that sitting for long periods of time is very painful for people who suffer from back pain. Therefore, riding for long periods of time is not an easy and pain-free feat. Know your limits when riding, and know when it’s time for a break . Otherwise, use the below tips and techniques from everydayhealth.com to help manage your back pain while driving.
8 Ways to Handle Back Pain on the Road
- Use lumbar support. It can be something simple, like a rolled-up towel or a cushion specially designed for support. Just be sure it’s properly placed, at about belt level.
- Move your seat forward. It helps to get as close to the steering wheel as you can without becoming uncomfortable. Being this close prevents you from slouching, and also keeps you from straining to reach the pedals.
- Angle your seat. The back of your seat should be adjusted to an angle of about 100 to 110 degrees to allow you to sit properly.
- Go cruising. If your car has cruise control, use it — if it’s safe to do so. This allows you to put both feet on the floor for short periods and distribute your weight more evenly.
- Stretch it out. Stop as often as you can, preferably every half hour or so, to get out of the car and stretch.
- Ice it down. If you still have back pain while driving, stop for a stretch and put an ice pack against your back when you’re sitting. There are disposable/portable ice and heat packs available for purchase, so if you have a few on hand, you can alternate heat and cold every 20 minutes or so.
- Adjust your steering stance. Researchers have looked into the best way to position yourself at the steering wheel if you have back pain. It used to be that new drivers were taught to hold their steering wheel at the 10 o’clock and 2 o’clock positions. But, with the advent of airbags, research has found that your hands should be at 9 o’clock and 3 o’clock. This allows you to rest your elbows on the armrests, which can help ease pain, especially in the upper back.
- Heat your seat. If your car doesn’t have heated seats, many stores sell heated seat covers that can be placed on the driver’s seat.
In the end, whether you are a road warrior for work, or getting your kicks on Route 66, these tips can help you better manage your back pain while driving.
Tags: back pain tips
Posted in back pain tips, causes for pain in back, driving with back pain, ergonomics, tips | No Comments »
Monday, November 28th, 2011
Back pain is a common complaint — in fact, it’s the fifth most common reason that people see a doctor! If you are experiencing severe back pain it is recommended that you consult your physician for advice on treatment. However, in the mean time you can use these tips at home to cope.
Back pain tips dos and don’ts:
- Back pain can be treated like any other muscle pain — with gentle massage and light exercise.
- Try an over-the-counter pain reliever that also blocks swelling. Anti-inflammatory pain relievers such as ibuprofen should do the trick.
- Massage the area with an over-the-counter muscle pain-relieving cream, gel, or ointment.
- Make sure to maintain descent posture, to the best of your ability – this means sitting, standing, sleeping etc.
- Sleep on a mattress that gives you the right amount of support.
- Avoid ANY heavy lifting.
- Wear comfortable and supportive shoes.
Do you have any back pain tips that have helped you to cope? Please let us know and comment on this post!
Tags: at home tips for back pain, at home tips for pain, back pain tips, first aid for back pain, low back pain, lower back pain, tips for back pain, tips for low back pain
Posted in pain in low back, sciatic pain, sciatica relief, sciatica tips, staying healthy with sciatica, tips | No Comments »
Wednesday, November 23rd, 2011
I
t is no surprise that shoveling snow is one of the most common causes of low back pain in the U.S. In fact, today as I struggled with scooping up and tossing the wet, heavy snow, I thought to myself – “There must be a better way to do this, because it hurts!” After doing some digging it seems that there are some proper steps to take when shoveling to prevent causing low back pain or other back issues:
- Pick the right shovel!
Tools are usually the most important part of any project right? So why skimp when it comes to buying the right shovel! An ergonomic shovel can help take some of the effort out of your snow removal task. A shovel with a curved handle or an adjustable handle length may minimize painful bending, which may cause you back pain. In addition, a small, lightweight, plastic blade helps reduce the amount of weight that you are constantly moving.
- Keep warm.
Cold, tight muscles are more prone to injury than warmed up, flexible muscles. Do your back a favor by warming up for five to ten minutes before shoveling or any strenuous activity. To get your blood moving try stretching, running in place or going for a walk before shoveling.
- Use ergonomics:
SpineHealth.com suggests the following techniques to maintaining posture while shoveling snow:
- Always face towards the object you intend to lift (ie have your shoulders and hips both squarely facing it)
- Bend at the hips, not the low back, and push the chest out, pointing forward. Then, bend your knees and lift with your leg muscles, keeping your back straight
- Keep your loads light and do not lift an object that is too heavy for you
- If you must lift a shovel full, grip the shovel with one hand as close to the blade as comfortably possible and the other hand on the handle (handle and arm length will vary the technique)
- Avoid twisting the back to move your object to its new location – always pivot your whole body to face the new direction
- Keep the heaviest part of the object close to your body at your center of gravity – do not extend your arms to throw the snow
- Walk to the new location to deposit the item rather than reaching or tossing
The above suggestions are for preventing low back pain caused by shoveling, if you already have a back injury or low back pain, you should consult with a health professional before even attempting to shovel.
Tags: back pain and shoveling snow, low back pain and shoveling, shoveling snow tips, tips for shoveling snow, tips for shoveling with back pain, tips for shoveling with back problems
Posted in back pain prevention, causes for pain in back, causes of pain in back, ergonomics, pain in low back, sciatic pain, sciatica causes, sciatica pain, sciatica tips, tips | No Comments »
Wednesday, November 16th, 2011
Personally I absolutely LOVE the tangy deliciousness that is pineapple! But, it’s even better to know that this amazing fruit is also know for its anti-inflammatory properties and therefore may prove useful as a sciatica remedy.
As you may already know, all fresh fruits including pineapple are packed with enzymes. However, pineapple is well known for being packed with a specific enzyme called bromelain. This gives the fruit some amazing properties including; a natural anti-inflammatory and analgesic.
Some websites state that bromelain may be useful in treating bruises, sprains and strains by reducing swelling, tenderness and pain. It is also states that this anti-inflammatory will help in relieving osteo-arthritis and rheumatoid arthritis symptoms and reduce postoperative swelling. The medicinal benefits of pineapple have been known and recommended in South American and Central American cultures for hundreds of years.
It is important to note that most of the bromelain is concentrated in the core of the pineapple. So if you are making a smoothie make sure to include the stem. You may also find bromelain in tablet form as well. To gain the benefit of bromelain as an anti-inflammatory and effective sciatica remedy, make sure to buy fresh pineapple only – canned and frozen as well as store bought juices will not contain the enzymes needed for it to work properly.
Before using bromelain to improve your health, first consult with a knowledgeable medical practitioner as there are many possible side effects and drug interactions that can occur with this supplement.
Tags: anti-inflammatory. natural anti inflammatory, arthritis, bromelain, pineapple, pineapple for inflammation, pineapple for pain, pineapple reduces swelling, relief from sciatica, sciatica pain treatment, sciatica remedies, sciatica remedy, sciatica treatment, swelling
Posted in alternative treatments for sciatica, back pain prevention, sciaitca treatments, sciatica and vitamins, sciatica pain medications, sciatica pain remedies, sciatica relief, sciatica tips, treating back pain | No Comments »
Monday, November 14th, 2011
Recently chiropractors have formed a group dedicated to helping veterans who suffer from back pain. It seems that many veterans have back pain issues when returning home because of the heavy gear they must carry while overseas. The new group is called “Healing Hands for Heroes” and its goal is to help veterans get rid of their back pain. This group was formed by both chiropractors and military to provide free chiropractic care to veterans returning from war.
James Ju, formerly stationed in Iraq as a marine -in 2009 and 2010 states, “I couldn’t really sit, I couldn’t drive for a long period of time. Couldn’t really bend down and pick something up, couldn’t even put on my socks.” Ju now is using the assistance of the “Healing Hands for Heroes” program and he is happy to admit that the treatments are providing him with great relief. “I feel good; I’m able to do everyday stuff without any pain. I actually haven’t felt pain since Doctor E fixed me up.”
Programs such as these truly bring a smile to my face, it is so important that we honor what these men and women have done for us and give back to them in some way shape or form. Dr. Michael Errichiello of Chiropractic Healthcare Associates, NJ. agrees and is participating in this program as well, he states, “These young men and women are heroes; they’re risking themselves in Iraq and Afghanistan to save us, to keep us free. It’s important to give something back to them.”
Tags: assist veterans with back pain, back pain in veterans, group for veterans with back pain, group to help military pay for chiropractor visits, helping back pain in veterans, veterans have back pain
Posted in chiropractors, sciatica pain, staying healthy with sciatica, treating back pain, veterans with back pain | No Comments »
Friday, November 11th, 2011
While there are many therapies and medications that can be used as a sciatica pain treatment, shiatsu is one that we don’t commonly discuss. Shiatsu is an eastern massage technique which may help relax the muscles in the back and neck. It is said that shiatsu dates back about one thousand years to the country of Japan. In Japan, a traditional shiatsu practitioner is usually a small gentleman who uses his palms, thumbs, fingers and knees to provide a rhythmic massage for pain relief.
Shiatsu as a sciatica pain treatment may be beneficial as it is believed that applying pressure in specific spots will encourage the ki, or chi, to flow through the bones, arteries, muscles and skin of the affected area.
The core belief behind shiatsu is that the body has the power to heal itself. The massage aspect of shiatsu is simply a means of encouragement for healing through the body’s energy. The massage may also help to release blocked energy that may be causing pain.
Shiatsu sessions usually last about an hour, most people state that they feel extremely relaxed afterward. In fact, some people claim that shiatsu has effectively eliminated the pain of sciatica in five sessions or less, making it a very intriguing sciatica pain treatment option.
Tags: relief fro sciatica, sciatic pain relief, sciatica pain relief, sciatica pain treatment, sciatica treatment, Shiatsu. shiatsu for sciaitica
Posted in alternative treatments for sciatica, exercises for sciatica, massage for sciatica, pain in low back, sciaitca treatments, sciatic pain, sciatica pain, sciatica pain remedies, sciatica relief, stretches for sciatic nerve, treating back pain | No Comments »
Wednesday, November 9th, 2011
So you just had a major surgery, but now for the WORST part – bed rest! Many people who require bed rest after surgery find themselves probing the internet for solutions on what to do on bed rest. So it’s obvious that there are many people struggling with a similar problem after surgery – boredom! Bed rest after surgery can be extremely challenging for some people (especially for those who have a hard time sitting still), so below we have provided some fun tips and solutions for what to do on bed rest!
What To Do On Bed Rest: Surviving Boredom!
It may sound silly, but sticking to a schedule may be crucial to keeping your mind occupied while on bed rest… Even if you have to stay in bed all day, you’ll feel better if you take care of yourself. After you wake up, change into comfortable clothes and plan what to do for the day. Having a plan will make you feel as if you’re accomplishing something and will give you something to look forward to.
- Journal your thoughts, ideas etc. Or just write in general!
- Start a family tree
- Organize photo albums, or try scrap booking
- READ, READ, READ — newspapers, magazines, classic novels, the latest bestsellers, compilations of fiction or poetry…
- Watch videos or t.v. shows if you don’t have cable try using Netflix or Hulu!
- Learn a new skill! Have you been dying to learn a new computer skill such as typing, or maybe you want to learn a foreign language? Use this time wisely to master a new skill! There are many online classes and software available to help you do so.
- Start a calendar of important dates to remember (birthdays, anniversaries, etc.)
- Pay bills, or fill out any paperwork you have pushed aside: organize files, fill out insurance forms, start a budget!
- Arts/Crafts – Start a knitting or sewing project that does not require heavy lifting and can be done while sitting down.
- Use StumbleUpon! This site generates random content per the keywords and topics you enter. It can be a fun (and addictive) way to peruse new and exciting topics!
- Work from home – If your self-employed, or if you company will allow it, work from the convenience of your comfy couch or favorite chair!
- Pamper yourself! Use this time to pamper yourself – paint your nails, do an at-home facial, take a bubble bath, etc.
- Social Media – There is always someone on Twitter or Facebook! It’s free and it’s easy.
- Play games – Games can be lots of fun, whether you’re playing World of Warcraft or just hanging out with Tetris, Plants versus Zombies or Angry Birds. This can be fun and mindless, but it does pass the time.
- Shopping – This last one could potentially be dangerous! However, shop wisely – ask yourself, is anyone’s birthday coming up? Or maybe it’s near the holidays – use this time to get ahead of the game and get your needed shopping done!
Do you have an awesome tip to share for what to do on bed rest?! Please do so in the comment section within this post!
Tags: after sciatica surgery, after surgery - bed rest, bed rest tips, how to stay occupied on bed rest, i am bored on bed rest, surviving bed rest, what to do on bed rest
Posted in sciatic pain, sciatica surgery, sciatica tips, tips for after surgery, what to do on bed rest | No Comments »
Monday, November 7th, 2011
Living with back pain can be challenging to say the least. It’s imperative that you understand the actual cause of your back pain so that you can treat it accordingly. Below are five quick tips to help ease your back pain, and make your life a little less painful!
Take your vitamins!
You may help reduce chronic pain by getting the proper amount of essential B vitamins. B vitamins help support your central nervous system, boost your immune system, and help your body heal after injury or illness. Omega 3 fatty acids may also be essential as they are known to possess anti-inflammatory properties which may help eliminate the inflammation that leads to pain. Seafood, eggs and milk are naturally high in omega-3s. And vitamin B can be found in foods like bananas, potatoes, avocados and legumes, as well as nuts and turkey.
Clean out that purse!
If your purse or briefcase is 10% of your weight, it’s too heavy! Clean it out, and make sure to only carry around the essentials. It is also important to carry your bag properly as to not aggravate or cause injury to your back. One tip is to alternate shoulders so that you aren’t applying constant pressure/weight to just one side of your body.
Sit up straight!
If you are one of the many who spend 8+ hours sitting at a desk, it is imperative that you sit properly. Make sure to sit with your back against your chair and place both feet flat on the floor. If you stand for long periods make sure to change your position – widen your stance or alternate your position to avoid repeated stress on the same muscles.
Get up and get moving.
This doesn’t mean go out and over exert yourself! Just get up, and get the blood pumping in your body! Walking alone can promote circulation and relax over-stressed and tightened muscles.
Sleep…
Sleep is an essential nutrient for your body. If you are having trouble sleeping or find that you wake in the morning more tired than when you went to bed, you may need to take a good look at where and how you sleep. A good mattress is key to a good nights rest! When your body is allowed to rest in its natural position, muscles are relaxed and sleep is more refreshing. Make sure your bed is as comfortable as possible, so that your body gets the rest it deserves!
Tags: 5 Quick Tips To Ease Back Pain, back pain, back pain advice, back pain tips, how to help back pain, sciatica tips, tips for back pain, treating back pain
Posted in back pain prevention, sciatica and vitamins, sciatica relief, sciatica tips, sleeping with sciatica, staying healthy with sciatica, treating back pain | No Comments »
Friday, November 4th, 2011
In ancient Chinese medicine, one well-known method of treatment is called acupuncture. Acupuncture may be used as a sciatica pain treatment. Acupuncture for sciatica may minimize spinal stenosis, spine pain, spinal column root compression, neck ache, neuropathy and other uncomfortable and unpleasant disorders.
Many believe that Chinese herbal treatments such as acupuncture, are efficient and less risky than other forms of sciatica pain treatment such as surgery, or steroids.
Acupuncture for sciatica pain may be more efficient if applied immediately on the injuries or during the onset of back pain or back spasms. More serious conditions may require ongoing acupuncture, which may often be combined with other types of Chinese medicine made from natural herbs.
Over half of the adult population may undergo or be affected by sciatic nerve pain at some point in their lives… Acupuncture for sciatica may be a great way to treat this problem as it arises in so many individuals.
Tags: acupuncture for sciatica, how to treat sciatica, sciatica pain treatment, sciatica remedies, treating sciatica, treating sciatica naturally, types of sciatica therapy
Posted in alternative treatments for sciatica, sciaitca treatments, sciatica pain, sciatica pain remedies, sciatica relief | 1 Comment »
Wednesday, November 2nd, 2011
If you suffer from chronic lower back pain or sciatica pain you know that finding an effective sciatica treatment can be frustrating to say the least! Your doctor may recommend surgery as a sciatica treatment, if so, ask these 5 important questions before you commit to going under the knife!
1. What is the root cause of my pain?
Make sure your doctor can identify the root cause of your sciatica, or low back pain, before he or she determines the best sciatica treatment for you. Once the root cause of sciatic pain is determined, your doctor should know the best type of sciatica treatment or operation for your particular condition. Jeffrey Goldstein, MD, director of Spine Service at the New York University Hospital for Joint Diseases, advises patients to make sure that their doctor has found a well-defined source of pain that shows up on an MRI or some other test.
2.Is surgery the BEST form of sciatica treatment for my condition?
Everyone’s back pain is different and some conditions respond better to surgery than others. Make sure you discuss the risks and success rates of surgery as a sciatica treatment with your doctor before making a decision.
3. What are my other options vs. sciatica surgery?
Make sure you explore all of your options before having a major surgery. The spine can be a complicated place to operate and you will want to be confident that the surgery is necessary for your sciatica treatment. Some doctors may recommend other alternatives before opting for surgery as a sciatica treatment.
4. Should I get a second opinion?
All doctors have a different methodology for the treatment of their patients. It is highly recommended with any serious surgery that you get more than one opinion before actually committing.
5. What should I expect in my recovery?
In all the fuss of the surgery specifics we often forget to ask, “What should I expect in recovery.” This is an important question – How long will your recovery be? Will you need assistance for days or weeks? How long will you need to stay in the hospital? Will physical therapy be needed. When you consult with your doctor bring along a notebook with all of these concerns and write down the answers during your visit.
Tags: back pain surgery, back pain surgery questions, back surgery, questions about sciatica surgery, questions to ask your surgeon, sciatica surgery, sciatica surgery questions, sciatica treatment, surgery for sciatica, surgery questions, what to expect with sciatica surgery
Posted in sciaitca treatments, sciatica relief, sciatica surgery, sciatica tips, treating back pain | No Comments »
