What is spinal stenosis and how does it affect the spine. What are the common causes of spinal stenosis. How can spinal stenosis be diagnosed and treated. What are the minimally invasive surgical options for spinal stenosis.

What is Spinal Stenosis and How Does it Affect the Spine?

Spinal stenosis is a condition characterized by the narrowing of the spinal canal, which houses the spinal cord. This narrowing can put pressure on the spinal cord and nerves, leading to various uncomfortable symptoms. The condition can occur in different regions of the spine, including the neck (cervical stenosis), mid-back (thoracic stenosis), and lower back (lumbar stenosis).

The American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons reports that up to 95% of people aged 50 or older experience degenerative changes in their spine. Among this group, spinal stenosis affects approximately 8% to 11% of individuals. While the condition can develop at any age, it is most prevalent in those over 50.

Common Causes of Spinal Stenosis: From Aging to Congenital Factors

Several factors can contribute to the development of spinal stenosis:

• Aging: As we grow older, natural wear and tear can cause the spine to change. Ligaments may thicken, and bones and joints can enlarge, resulting in a narrower spinal canal.
• Arthritis: Years of repetitive motion can lead to compression and wear of vertebrae against joints. This can cause joint deterioration, inflammation, or the formation of bone spurs.
• Congenital defects: Some individuals are born with a naturally small spinal canal, making them more susceptible to stenosis.
• Spinal deformities: Conditions such as scoliosis (curvature of the spine) or spondylolisthesis (vertebral displacement) can cause the spinal canal to narrow.

Is spinal stenosis always age-related? While age is a significant factor, it’s important to note that spinal stenosis can affect younger individuals too, particularly those with congenital defects or those involved in contact sports.

Recognizing the Symptoms of Spinal Stenosis

Spinal stenosis is a degenerative disease, meaning it progresses gradually over time. By the time symptoms become noticeable, the condition may have been developing for a while. Common symptoms include:

• Pain in the neck or back
• Pain radiating down the legs
• Tingling, numbness, or weakness in the arms, legs, or buttocks
• Muscle atrophy or motor loss in severe cases

Can spinal stenosis symptoms vary depending on the affected area? Yes, the location of the stenosis can influence the specific symptoms experienced. For instance, cervical stenosis may cause issues in the upper body, while lumbar stenosis typically affects the lower body.

Diagnosing Spinal Stenosis: From Medical History to Imaging

If you’re experiencing symptoms that suggest spinal stenosis, it’s crucial to consult a healthcare professional. The diagnostic process typically involves:

1. Discussing your medical history and symptoms
2. Physical examination
3. High-resolution imaging such as Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) or Computerized Tomography (CT) scan

Why are imaging tests important in diagnosing spinal stenosis? These tests provide detailed views of the spine’s structure, allowing doctors to identify areas of narrowing and assess the extent of nerve compression.

Conservative Treatment Options for Spinal Stenosis

Treatment for spinal stenosis is not one-size-fits-all. Healthcare providers typically start with conservative methods, which can include:

• Anti-inflammatory medications or muscle relaxants
• Cortisone injections
• Physical therapy

These conservative treatments are often effective, especially when the condition is diagnosed and treated early. Only a small percentage of patients require surgical intervention.

How effective are conservative treatments for spinal stenosis? While effectiveness can vary among individuals, many patients experience significant relief through these non-invasive methods, particularly when treatment begins in the early stages of the condition.

Surgical Interventions: When Conservative Treatments Aren’t Enough

If conservative methods fail to provide adequate relief, surgery may be necessary. The goal of surgery is to create more space for the spinal cord and nerves within the spinal canal. Modern surgical techniques offer several minimally invasive options, which can lead to:

• Smaller incisions
• Shorter recovery periods
• Quicker return to daily activities

What are the benefits of minimally invasive surgery for spinal stenosis? These procedures often result in less tissue damage, reduced pain, and faster recovery compared to traditional open surgery. However, the best surgical approach depends on the individual patient’s condition and overall health.

Living with Spinal Stenosis: Management and Lifestyle Adjustments

While treatment can significantly improve symptoms, living with spinal stenosis may require some lifestyle adjustments. These can include:

• Regular exercise to maintain flexibility and strength
• Proper posture and body mechanics
• Weight management to reduce stress on the spine
• Use of assistive devices when necessary

How can exercise help manage spinal stenosis? Appropriate exercises can help maintain spine flexibility, strengthen supporting muscles, and improve overall mobility. However, it’s crucial to work with a healthcare professional to develop a safe and effective exercise plan.

The Importance of Early Diagnosis and Treatment

Early diagnosis and treatment of spinal stenosis are crucial for several reasons:

• Conservative treatments are most effective in the early stages
• Early intervention can slow the progression of the condition
• Prompt treatment can prevent the development of severe symptoms or complications
• Early management can improve quality of life and maintain mobility

Why should you not ignore persistent back pain or neurological symptoms? Ignoring these symptoms can lead to the progression of spinal stenosis, potentially resulting in more severe nerve damage and requiring more invasive treatments.

Understanding the Impact of Spinal Stenosis on Daily Life

Spinal stenosis can significantly impact an individual’s quality of life. Depending on the severity of the condition, it may affect:

• Mobility and physical activity levels
• Ability to perform daily tasks
• Work performance
• Sleep quality
• Overall well-being and mental health

How does spinal stenosis affect mental health? Chronic pain and limited mobility associated with spinal stenosis can lead to frustration, anxiety, and depression in some individuals. Addressing both the physical and emotional aspects of the condition is crucial for comprehensive care.

The Role of Physical Therapy in Managing Spinal Stenosis

Physical therapy plays a vital role in the management of spinal stenosis. A tailored physical therapy program may include:

• Stretching exercises to improve flexibility
• Strengthening exercises for core and back muscles
• Posture correction techniques
• Low-impact aerobic activities
• Pain management strategies

Can physical therapy alone treat spinal stenosis? While physical therapy is an essential component of treatment, it’s often most effective when combined with other conservative measures or as part of a post-surgical rehabilitation program.

Advancements in Spinal Stenosis Treatment

The field of spinal stenosis treatment is continually evolving. Recent advancements include:

• Improved minimally invasive surgical techniques
• Enhanced imaging technologies for more accurate diagnosis
• Development of new medications for pain management
• Innovative physical therapy approaches
• Exploration of regenerative medicine techniques

How might future treatments for spinal stenosis differ from current options? Emerging research in areas such as stem cell therapy and tissue engineering may lead to more targeted and less invasive treatments in the future.

The Importance of a Multidisciplinary Approach

Managing spinal stenosis often requires a multidisciplinary approach, involving various healthcare professionals such as:

• Orthopedic surgeons or neurosurgeons
• Physical therapists
• Pain management specialists
• Radiologists
• Primary care physicians

Why is a multidisciplinary approach beneficial in treating spinal stenosis? This approach ensures comprehensive care, addressing all aspects of the condition and tailoring treatment to the individual patient’s needs.

Preventing Spinal Stenosis: Is it Possible?

While some risk factors for spinal stenosis, such as age and genetics, are beyond our control, certain lifestyle choices may help reduce the risk or slow the progression of the condition:

• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Regular exercise and stretching
• Practicing good posture
• Avoiding smoking
• Using proper body mechanics when lifting or performing repetitive tasks

Can a healthy lifestyle completely prevent spinal stenosis? While a healthy lifestyle can’t guarantee prevention, it can help maintain overall spine health and potentially reduce the risk or severity of spinal stenosis.

The Role of Alternative Therapies in Managing Spinal Stenosis

Some patients find relief from spinal stenosis symptoms through alternative or complementary therapies such as:

• Acupuncture
• Chiropractic care
• Massage therapy
• Yoga or tai chi
• Herbal supplements

Are alternative therapies effective for treating spinal stenosis? While some patients report benefits from these therapies, scientific evidence supporting their effectiveness is limited. It’s crucial to discuss any alternative treatments with your healthcare provider before trying them.

Living an Active Life with Spinal Stenosis

Despite the challenges posed by spinal stenosis, many individuals can maintain an active lifestyle with proper management. Strategies for staying active may include:

• Choosing low-impact activities like swimming or cycling
• Using assistive devices when necessary
• Pacing activities and taking frequent breaks
• Modifying exercises to accommodate limitations
• Working closely with a physical therapist to develop a safe exercise routine

Is it safe to exercise with spinal stenosis? With proper guidance from healthcare professionals, exercise can be not only safe but beneficial for many individuals with spinal stenosis. The key is finding the right types and intensity of activities for each person’s specific condition.

The Psychological Impact of Chronic Pain from Spinal Stenosis

Chronic pain associated with spinal stenosis can have significant psychological effects, including:

• Depression
• Anxiety
• Sleep disturbances
• Reduced social interaction
• Decreased quality of life

How can the psychological effects of spinal stenosis be addressed? A comprehensive treatment plan may include psychological support, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy or support groups, to help patients cope with the emotional challenges of living with chronic pain.

The Economic Impact of Spinal Stenosis

Spinal stenosis can have significant economic implications, both for individuals and society as a whole. These may include:

• Direct medical costs for treatment and management
• Lost productivity due to work absences or reduced capacity
• Disability-related expenses
• Costs associated with informal caregiving

How can the economic burden of spinal stenosis be mitigated? Early diagnosis and effective management can help reduce long-term costs by preventing the progression of the condition and maintaining individuals’ ability to work and perform daily activities.

The Future of Spinal Stenosis Research and Treatment

Ongoing research in spinal stenosis is focused on several promising areas:

• Development of new pharmacological treatments
• Advancements in minimally invasive surgical techniques
• Exploration of regenerative medicine approaches
• Improved diagnostic tools for earlier detection
• Enhanced understanding of the condition’s genetic factors

What potential breakthroughs in spinal stenosis treatment might we see in the future? While it’s difficult to predict specific breakthroughs, ongoing research may lead to more targeted treatments, improved pain management strategies, and potentially even ways to reverse or prevent the spinal changes that lead to stenosis.

Get help for back, neck, and leg pain caused by spinal stenosis | Orthopaedics and Rehab

Too many people live with unnecessary pain related to spinal conditions. One of the most common ones I treat is spinal stenosis, in which the spinal canal narrows and puts pressure on the spinal cord and nerves.

Normal wear and tear as we age causes our spines to change. The American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons says up to 95 percent of people 50 or older experience degenerative changes of the spine, and spinal stenosis can affect 8 to 11 percent of them.

Spinal stenosis symptoms can be managed and treated. This doesn’t always mean surgery, but if you do need surgery, know there are minimally invasive options that can make recovery a little easier than in the past. Let’s talk about what causes spinal stenosis, its symptoms, and how we can treat it.

What is spinal stenosis?

The spinal canal is the space though which the spinal cord passes. When this space narrows, it can put pressure on the spinal cord and nerves and cause pain.

There are several types of spinal stenosis, and they relate to where along the spine the narrowing occurs:

• Cervical spinal stenosis, which occurs in the neck
• Thoracic stenosis, which occurs in the mid-back
• Lumbar stenosis, which occurs in the lower back

Spinal stenosis can develop at any age, but it’s most common among people 50 and older. Some of the most common causes of spinal stenosis include:

• Aging: As noted earlier, the spine changes as we age. The ligaments become thicker or the bones and joints get bigger, resulting in a narrower spinal canal.
• Arthritis: Vertebrae, or the bones that form the spine, can begin to compress and wear against the joints that allow it to flex after years of repetitive motion. This can cause the joints to deteriorate, resulting in inflammation or the development of bone spurs, which are bony projections that form on the surface of bones.
• Congenital defect: Some people are born with a small spinal canal. This is the most common type of spinal stenosis found in young people. It might present in teens who play contact sports and experience recurring numbness or weakness in their hands, or what we call “stingers,” which are pinched nerve injuries.
• Spinal deformities: Spinal conditions such as scoliosis, in which there is a curvature of the spine, or spondylolisthesis, in which a vertebrae moves out of position onto the vertebra below it, can cause the spinal canal to narrow.

Symptoms of spinal stenosis

Spinal stenosis is a degenerative disease, which means it gets worse over time. It starts slowly, and by the time you notice pain, it’s probably been brewing for some time.

Nerves relay sensation to specific parts of the body. Pressure on these nerves can cause pain, tingling, or numbness in those body parts. Common symptoms include:

• Pain in the neck or back
• Pain that radiates down into the legs
• Tingling, numbness, or weakness in the arms, legs, or buttocks
• Muscle atrophy or motor loss in extreme cases

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, request an appointment to talk to a doctor about whether you may have spinal stenosis or another spinal condition.

Diagnosis of spinal stenosis starts with discussing your medical history and symptoms. If we suspect spinal stenosis, we’ll likely get high-resolution imaging such as a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or computerized tomography (CT) scan. Once we confirm it’s spinal stenosis, we can discuss treatment options.

How we treat spinal stenosis

There isn’t one “right” treatment for spinal stenosis. What works for one person may not work for another.

We always try to start with the most conservative methods, such as:

• Anti-inflammatories or muscle relaxants
• Cortisone injections
• Physical therapy

These treatments work for the vast majority of spinal stenosis patients, with only a small percentage needing surgery. Remember, spinal stenosis is a degenerative disease, and these methods are most effective at the early stage, underscoring the importance of early diagnosis and treatment.

If these methods don’t bring pain relief, you may need surgery to make more room for the spinal cord and nerves in the spinal canal. I know many people are scared by the thought of back surgery, but these aren’t the surgeries of years past. We offer a number of minimally invasive options, which require smaller incisions and a shorter recovery period, allowing you to more quickly get back to daily activities.

You and your doctor will examine the best options for your situation. If you don’t feel comfortable, get a second opinion. You shouldn’t have to live with back pain or tingling, numbness, or weakness in your arms and legs. Talk with your doctor to find the cause of your pain and to begin a treatment plan.

Symptoms and Causes of Back Pain

Symptoms

You may experience upper back pain as localized tightness, throbbing, aching or sharp pain in the thoracic area of your back or in your neck. It can also be experienced as radiating pain in your arms, numbness, tingling or weakness in your arms, headache, or pain in your jaw or occipital area.  Because the ribs are attached to the thoracic spine, you may also feel pain when taking a deep breath.

Causes

The common causes of upper back pain stem from inflammation and micro-tears in the muscles, tendons and ligaments of the upper back or from arthritis, herniated disks, vertebral stenosis, or misalignments in the thoracic or cervical spine.  Repetitive motions and stressful postures, over time, may lead to the development of or aggravation of soft tissue damage or degenerative changes in the spinal column.

Tips for Controlling Upper Back Pain

The following may decrease cumulative trauma and may reduce the amount of your pain:

• Maintain proper posture.
• Use magnification, such as loupes, and adequate lighting to bring your field of vision closer and decrease the extent to which your neck is held forward and flexed down.
• Position the patient’s head at a level that gives you access to the oral cavity while being able to hold your shoulders in a relaxed, neutral position (rather than a hunched up position) and you are able to hold your elbows at about a ninety degree or less flexion.
• When possible, use chair arms to support your upper arm or forearm when doing fine, precision work with your hands.
• Wear properly fitting gloves.
• Keep equipment in good working order.  Improperly maintained equipment can cause you to use unnecessary pressure and extra time when performing certain procedures.
• Position equipment within easy reach and visibility to reduce repeated twisting of your neck or torso.
• Take a break in between or during long or difficult cases.
• When possible, set up your schedule to rotate long, difficult cases with short, easier cases.

Seek Medical Consultation

Seek medical consultation for upper back pain, especially in the following instances:

• After recent significant trauma, such as a fall, a motor vehicle accident or other such accidents.
• When sleep is disrupted or pain is worse at night.
• With a history of prolonged steroid use.
• With a history of osteoporosis.
• With a recent history of infection or a temperature over 100 degrees F.
• Numbness or tingling in arms.
• Severe, sudden headache.
• Dizziness.

Other Resources

Ergonomics Tips for Upper Back Pain [ADA Catalog]

American College of Sports Medicine
www.acsm.org

American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons
www.aaos.org

American Physical Therapy Association
www.apta.org

8 Causes of Lower Back Pain in Women, According to Doctors

One morning, I just woke up with it: shooting pain and stiffness all round my lower back and no recent injury to account for it. I slowly rolled out of bed and hobbled to work, confused about what was going on in my body. All I knew was that sitting at my desk seemed to be making things worse. I would be groaning out of my seat for days without understanding how to feel better. I was getting worried, and wondered whether or not I needed to see a doctor.

Perhaps you can relate. Looking at the stats, most people have own frustrating tale about lower back pain, or will at some point. In fact, experts estimate that 80% of Americans will experience some sort of back pain in their lifetime, while research says lower back pain, specifically, is the fifth most common reason for all primary care visits.

One theory as to why this is so common is rooted in our skeletal design, says Bill Rifkin, M.D., an internist who overseas guideline development for acute patient care at MCG Health. “Our evolution wasn’t perfect,” he says. When our quadruped humanoid ancestors developed into upright, walking beings, they started to bear more of their weight in the lumbar region—the second lowest region of the spine.“When you go from four to two legs, you’re putting a lot more strain on the lower back,” adds Dr. Rifkin. “My dog doesn’t get back pain! So for us, the lower back is a vulnerable spot in our bodies just by the mechanics of it. ”

The way we move (lift our bags from the floor, bend over to tie our shoes, squat) and the ways we don’t move (sit, stand, sleep) often influence our lower back health. There are many muscles, ligaments, and tendons that work together to help move, stabilize, and protect the spine. And the spine itself—which is made up of 24 small bones (vertebrae) that are each cushioned by gel-like cushions called discs—is also comprised of many pieces. So when one of these parts (whether muscular, skeletal, or neurological) is out of whack, you may experience aches, stiffness, numbness, and an inability to do normal, everyday activities.

There are also more serious conditions and illnesses that can trigger lower back soreness. And so with all the various factors that can cause us to bend over in agony, it can be tricky to I.D. the exact root of our pain. Not all back pain is the same. Some cases will heal up on their own, while chronic conditions might need more care and attention.

So to help you explore what could be going on for your body, we talked to experts from MCG Health: a company that researches and writes evidence-based, data-driven guidelines for countless health conditions to help patients and physicians work together to develop individualized care plans. Their physicians told us what they find are the most common causes of back pain and how you should go about seeking treatment.

Common Causes of Lower Back Pain

1. Sedentary Lifestyles

Many of us spend a lot of our waking hours on our keister thanks to jobs that have us in front of computers all day. But unfortunately, such a sedentary lifestyle can increase your risk of chronic low back pain, disability, and mortality, says Stacey Popko, M.D., a pediatrician, internist, and overseer of guideline development for ambulatory care at MCG. However, the exact reasons as to why this is the case is not obvious.

“There is a lot of interest in better understanding the effects of ‘sedentary behavior’ in medicine,” says Dr. Popko. “And there is not yet clear evidence about what role sedentary behavior plays in chronic low back pain.”

Some exercise physiologists suggest that it could be the way our muscles are activated (or deactivated) when we are sitting. For example, when our bums remain glued to our seats for too long, we tend to slouch and underutilize the core muscles that support the lower back and decompress the spine.

In my case, I discovered that my hamstrings and glutes had become super tight and cranky from being stuck in the same position from 9-5. Once I figured that out, stretching and frequent walk breaks turned out to be a huge relief. No M.D. for me.

2. Poor Posture

In a similar vein, poor posture can either cause lower back pain or make it worse. This doesn’t only mean slouching or slumping at your desk; poor posture could also include leaning on one leg while you stand, or walking with your bottom so far out you have an arch in your lower back. While these postures aren’t inherently “poor” for a moment in time, maintaining these positions for prolonged periods can increase the strain on the muscles and ligaments around the lumbar spine.

3. Sudden Muscle or Ligament Strain

We’ve all heard the story of our friend who pulled something in their back trying to move the couch. (Maybe this was you.) It’s extremely common for people to tweak muscles and ligaments when they are lifting with improper form or moving a load that puts too much tension on the lower back. The risk can increase when a person’s muscles are “deconditioned,” says Dr. Rifkin. This often occurs when someone isn’t very physically active and has lost muscle tone and strength.

4. Muscle Fatigue

In certain instances, back pain isn’t due to lack of activity, but the type of activities we do on a regular basis, says Dr. Popko.

“We see a lot of back pain is related to athletics and some of the jobs that people do,” she adds.

For example, you could have a job that often requires you to lift heavy objects. When you continue to lift over and over without enough rest, the muscles needed to perform the movement may not fire as efficiently, which can lead to faulty mechanics, and potentially injury. The same could be true of anyone who plays a sport that places a lot of torque on the spine.

Sorrorwoot Chaiyawong / EyeEmGetty Images

Rare Causes of Lower Back Pain

5. Bulging or Herniated Disc

The jelly-doughnut-looking cushions between our vertebrae are subject to injury and overall wear and tear. As we age, they dehydrate, become stiff, and sometimes balloon out and irritate neighboring nerve roots. Traumatic accidents and sudden movements can also put too much pressure on a disc and cause it to rupture, protrude, and create pain. While herniated disc symptoms vary, people can experience shooting pain down their legs.

Just hearing the words “bulging disc” can sound scary for some people because many assume that it means that they need back surgery. But Dr. Rifkin says this isn’t often the case; in fact, a disc abnormality doesn’t always mean trouble.

“Most back pain is not about [herniated disks],” he says. “If you did spine MRIs on 100 patients over the age of 50, many would have disc problems, but no pain. So it is important to realize that surgery is only indicated for a relatively small proportion of back pain.”

6. Scoliosis

Scoliosis is a disorder that causes the spine to curve abnormally. It has no known cause and is not a common source for lower back pain, specifically, but it can play a part.

7. Degenerative Spine Conditions and Autoimmune Diseases

Certain diseases like osteoporosis and osteoarthritis can cause lower back pain. Osteoporosis causes bones to become weak and brittle, potentially leading to fractures in the spine, while osteoarthritis is a progressive joint disease that breaks down protective cartilage. “There is also back pain that’s part of different autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis and lupus,” adds Dr. Rifkin, but these are rarer cases.

8. Cancer

Lower back pain in relation to cancer can—in some instances—be caused by a tumor in the lumbar area. “If you have a history of organ cancer—like breast cancer or prostate cancer — it’s still very likely that back pain is not due to metastasis, but it could be,” says Dr. Rifkin.

What to Do If You’re Experiencing Back Pain

Here’s some good news: If you’re currently putting up with lower back aches, there’s a good chance that it will heal. “Most people who have acute low back pain are actually going to get better on their own in six weeks or less,” says Dr. Popko.

Many cases get better with rest and home treatment. “Try the usual things: heat, if that helps, ice, if that helps—and classes of [anti-inflammatory] drugs like ibuprofen are very, very useful,” says Dr. Rifkin.

It also could help to avoid movements that aggravate the pain, but make sure to stay as active as you can. Prolonged bed rest may make back strains worse as the muscles around the spine begin to weaken and lose tone. You also might want to look into making your work space better for your body’s needs and see if that helps.

If your back pain does not resolve within 6-12 weeks, go see your primary care doctor. They may refer you to physical therapy or to an orthopedist. With doctor approval, massage therapy might also be a benefit.

However, before you take a “wait and see” approach, there are also a few red flags you need to be aware of to understand whether or not your back pain might be a more serious issue. If you…

• Have back pain associated with serious trauma (like a car accident or a major fall)
• Have cancer or have a history of cancer
• Have trouble going to the bathroom or can’t hold your urine or stool
• Are experiencing neurological dysfunction like leg weakness or numbness
• Lose sensation around the groin area
• Have a fever in associated with your back pain

… it’s best to seek emergency care ASAP.

But again, unless you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, you can take a breath. Try to give your lower back some R&R, and if you’re really worried, your primary care physician can guide you on your next best steps.

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Adele Jackson-Gibson
Senior Editor
Adele Jackson-Gibson is a certified fitness coach, model, and writer.

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Back Pain in Early Pregnancy

If pregnancy is becoming a pain in your back, you’re not alone — back pain is one of the most common symptoms among the expecting set.

What is back pain during pregnancy?

Back pain during pregnancy typically takes the form of aches, stiffness and soreness in the upper or lower back and hips that can sometimes extend into the legs and buttocks.

When does back pain during pregnancy start and end?

Unfortunately, back pain can start fairly early on in your pregnancy. Some women experience it in the first trimester, but for many women, back pains starts up around week 18, early in the second trimester. It can persist or sometimes worsen as the second trimester progresses and especially in the third trimester, up until you give birth (when it’s sometimes replaced by postpartum back pain!).

What causes back pain during pregnancy?

Throughout your pregnancy, a hormone called relaxin is released, causing the ligaments of the otherwise stable joints in your pelvis to loosen up in order to allow easier passage of your baby during delivery.

Add to that the weight of your growing uterus, and your balance gets thrown off as your center of gravity shifts forward.

In turn, your lower back curves more than usual to accommodate the load — resulting in strained muscles and, you guessed it, soreness, stiffness and pain.

Is pregnancy back pain the same as sciatica?

It can be. If you’re feeling sharp, shooting pain that starts in your back or buttocks and radiates down your legs, you may be experiencing sciatica.

The good news about back pain during pregnancy is that it’s usually as resolvable as it is common. Plus, there are many ways to relieve it — so if one solution doesn’t work, another probably will.

Treatments for back pain during pregnancy

Try the following remedies to relieve your pregnancy backaches:

• Watch your posture when you’re sitting. Lounging around in a chair all day actually puts more strain on your spine than anything else. At home and at work, make sure the chairs you use most provide good support — preferably with a straight back and arms, and a firm cushion. Use a footrest to elevate your feet slightly, and don’t cross your legs. That can cause your pelvis to tilt forward, exacerbating those strained back muscles.
• Take breaks. Walk or stand and stretch frequently, at least once an hour if possible. Sitting too long can make your back hurt even more. Try not to stand too long, either. If you work on your feet, try to place one foot on a low stool to take some pressure off your lower back.
• Avoid lifting heavy loads. And if you must, do it slowly. Stabilize yourself by assuming a wide stance; bend at the knees, not at the waist; squat down and lift with your arms and legs, not your back. Better yet, ask for help!
• Watch your weight. Keep an eye on your pregnancy weight gain — extra weight and gaining too much too fast can be hard on your back.
• Wear the right shoes. Extremely high heels are out — as are completely flat ones. Experts recommend a low-heeled shoe with good arch support to keep your body in proper alignment. You might also consider orthotics, special shoe inserts designed for muscle support.
• Get a firm mattress. If yours isn’t, place a board underneath it for the duration of your pregnancy. A body pillow (at least 5 feet long) can also help you find stress-minimizing sleeping positions.

Pregnancy Insomnia Solutions

• Consider getting a crisscross support sling or belly band. Designed specifically for a pregnant figure, these support bands can help take the burden of your belly’s weight off your lower back.
• No reaching for the stars. Or the cookies on the top shelf, for that matter. Use a low, stable step stool to get items from high places and avoid putting any additional strain on your back.
• Think happy thoughts. A calm mind leads to a looser back. You can also try some prenatal yoga, which will relax both your mind and your back.
• Strengthen your stomach. Do pelvic tilts to strengthen your abs, which in turn support your back. Or sit on an exercise ball and rock back and forth.
• Go hot and cold. Soothe sore muscles by applying cold compresses, then warm compresses in 15-minute intervals.
• Take a warm bath. Or, if you have a pulsating showerhead, turn it on for a free back massage.
• Get a massage. Speaking of massages, go get one (after the first trimester and with a licensed massage therapist who knows you’re pregnant and is trained in the art of prenatal massage).
• Talk to your doctor. Ask your practitioner about physical therapists, alternative medicine specialists such as acupuncturists, or chiropractors who might be able to help. You should also call your practitioner if you have severe back pain.  

Sciatica: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments

If you suffer from sciatica, you know how painful it can be. It can disrupt your daily life, affecting everything from sitting in the car to standing in the kitchen to make a meal. 

Sciatica is a term used for any pain or symptom that causes numbness or sensation like tingling along the sciatic nerve.  This means sciatic nerve pain isn’t a true diagnosis, but a description of the pain you are experiencing that can help doctors properly assess your pain to determine a source. 

The sciatic nerve runs from your lower back through your hips and down each leg. Generally, when a patient experiences sciatica, it only affects one side of the body. 

Common Causes of Sciatica 

Most commonly, sciatica is caused by a herniated disc. Although, there are other lower back conditions that can attribute to sciatic nerve pain: arthritis, spinal stenosis, and spondylolisthesis.  Sciatica can also be painful if there is a pinched nerve from a bone spur or tumor that is pressing on the nerve.  

Types of Sciatica

Neurogenic

Neurogenic sciatica is caused by compression of the sciatic nerve, caused by a number of things, such as bulging discs to tight muscles. The discs can bulge, herniate, or burst, and this causes pressure on the nerves along the spine. Direct pressure on the spinal cord also compresses the sciatic nerve, as well as tight muscles from the buttocks and upper thigh. 

Typically, pain is worse in the leg than in the back. Symptoms vary depending on how severe the pressure is, but the pain can be described as sharp, shooting, and even burning pain. It’s common to experience numbness, hot and cold sensations, muscle weakness, and tingling. 

This type of sciatic nerve pain is associated with abnormal neurological exam findings like loss of normal reflexes, sensory changes, and muscle weakness. 

Referred 

Referred pain is caused by a muscle or joint problem in the spine or pelvis. It is not truly a form of sciatica, but mirrors the pain and symptoms.   It is important to determine the cause of the pain. This type of sciatic nerve pain is usually dull and achy, not usually giving off a sensation of pins and needles. 

This type of pain is not caused by a pinched nerve, but by a sprain or strained joints and muscles. 

Symptoms of Sciatica

One of the trademark symptoms of sciatica is pain that radiates from your lower spine to the buttocks or down the back of the leg. Pain or discomfort may be felt anywhere along the nerve path. 

Pain can vary from a mild, dull ache to a sharp, burning sensation or severe pain. Sciatica pain can be worsened by prolonged sitting or even coughing and sneezing. Some people experience numbness, tingling or muscle weakness in the affected area. 

Risk Factors for Sciatic Nerve Pain

There are multiple reasons you may experience sciatica, including: 

• Age: age-related changes in the spine can cause bone spurs and compressed nerves
• Obesity: Excessive body weight can cause extra weight and pressure on the spine and trigger spinal changes that cause sciatica.  
• Diabetes: Fluctuating blood sugar increases your risk for nerve damage. 
• Long Periods of Sitting: People who have sedentary lifestyles are much more likely to develop sciatica than active people.

Preventing Sciatic Nerve Pain

While sciatica may not be completely avoidable, there are certain ways to protect your back from recurring pain: 

• Regular Exercise: Keeping your back strong and paying attention to core strength in the abdomen and lower back are essential for proper alignment. 
• Maintain Good Posture When You Sit: Sitting with lower back support, armrests, and a swivel base help your posture. Keep you knees and hips level, and consider adding a small pillow in the small of your back to maintain its normal curve. 
• Be Mindful of Good Body Mechanics: Be mindful of your body while doing regular daily activities and if you do physical labor for work. If you stand for a long time, alternate propping your feet up on a small box from time to time. When lifting something heavy, use your knees instead of relying on your back – keep your back straight and bend at the knees. Get help lifting large items so you don’t stress your muscles or joints. 

Symptoms, Types of Back Arthritis, Treatment

When Jessica B.’s back pain started, she was almost positive it was from a workout injury or muscle strains from toting around her toddler son. She would feel sharp pains in her lower back mostly when standing or lying down for long periods; bending to empty the dishwasher or give her child a bath became really difficult. At first, she saw a chiropractor and did a few sessions of physical therapy, but after a few months, the pain wasn’t letting up.

It wasn’t until she saw an orthopedist — and got X-rays and MRIs — that she learned her ultimate diagnosis: osteoarthritis. She was surprised — “I was only 40, and I didn’t really hear much about people having arthritis in their back” — but also relieved. And once she started taking a prescription nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medication (NSAID), her pain was notably better.

“I could actually play tennis with my friends for an hour without wincing in pain,” she says.

Indeed, back pain is one of the most common medical complaints. It’s widely reported that about 80 percent of adults experience low back pain at some point in their lives. Most back pain goes away on its own within a few days to a few weeks and is not due to a chronic disease like arthritis. In fact, most acute (short-term) back pain is due to a musculoskeletal injury like a muscle strain or sprain.

When back pain persists for weeks or months, though, it’s time to start investigating whether a medical condition could be responsible for the symptoms. Unfortunately, many people do not suspect arthritis as a cause of their back pain, even though arthritis in the back is very common. Arthritis in the back can also co-occur with other back pain causes, such as slipped or herniated discs or sciatica, which can make it harder to get the right diagnosis and treatment.

When you think of arthritis, you might think of creaky knees, stiff hips, or painful, swollen fingers. Yes, arthritis commonly attacks joints in the hands, knees, and hips. But it can happen anywhere you have joints — including the spine in the back.

Back arthritis is not one disease; rather, many different types of arthritis may cause back pain and stiffness. Symptoms may be related to issues like wear and tear of the joints in the spine, autoimmune disease and widespread inflammation, or infection. Regardless of the exact location or physiological reason, arthritis in the back can be painful and often becomes chronic.

“As you get older, you’re more likely to develop osteoarthritis of the spine,” Michael Tiso, MD, a physician who specializes in internal medicine and sports medicine at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center in Columbus. “Oftentimes, people have arthritis in the back without even having any symptoms. While about 10 percent of people in their thirties have lumbar arthritis that is visible on imaging [like X-rays], more than 80 percent of people over age 80 will have arthritic changes you can see on imaging. The percentage of people who are symptomatic is much less, which is why routine imaging is often not helpful.”

Learn more here about what causes back arthritis, different types of back arthritis, and how arthritis in the back is treated.

Symptoms of Arthritis in the Back

Common symptoms of back arthritis may include:

• Back pain, especially in the lower back
• Limited range of motion
• Stiffness and loss of flexibility in the spine, such as being unable to straighten your back or turn your neck
• Limitation of function, such as being unable to get out of bed easily, tie shoes, carry laundry, or do physical activity or exercise
• Tenderness of the affected vertebrae
• Feeling grinding when moving the spine
• Tingling, numbness, weakness, or sharp shooting pains in your arms or legs if nerves of the spine are affected
• Headaches (when the upper, or cervical, spine is affected)
• Pain/swelling/stiffness in other joints, such as knees, hands, and feet (common in inflammatory arthritis)
• Fatigue
• Pain that is felt in the pelvis, buttocks, or thighs

“I’m in agony most days,” CreakyJoints member Jackie R. , who has osteoarthritis in her back, shared on Facebook. “Clicking, crunching, popping are normal sounds now.”

Linda H., who has ankylosing spondylitis, told us that she is “always very stiff in the morning and can take a while to loosen up. Generally bending to pick something up is difficult, but vacuuming is the worst.”

Although back pain is a common symptom, not all people with arthritis in the back have symptoms like pain, even those with advanced back arthritis. On the other hand, some people may experience back pain even before evidence of arthritis can be seen on an X-ray.

Mechanical vs. Inflammatory Back Pain

Though many different types of arthritis can affect the back, they generally fall into two basic categories:

• Mechanical causes (which include osteoarthritis)
• Inflammatory causes (which include rheumatoid arthritis as well as arthritis in the spondyloarthritis family, such as axial spondyloarthritis and psoriatic arthritis)

Mechanical back pain is far more common than inflammatory back pain. However, inflammatory back pain may be treated very differently from mechanical back pain. (Medication options for debilitating symptoms include biologics that target the immune system.) So it’s important to get the right diagnosis if you think inflammatory back pain could be the reason for your symptoms.

The differences between mechanical and inflammatory back pain can sometimes be subtle, but there are often clear differences in the nature of the pain, if you know to look for it.

You can take this quiz to see if your back pain is more likely inflammatory or mechanical, but generally inflammatory back pain:

• Strikes at a younger age (generally before age 40-45, and often first in the teens and twenties)
• Feels better with exercise and movement and worse with rest and inactivity
• Lasts for three months or more, but can come and go
• Feels stiff first thing in the morning for 30 minutes or more
• Can wake you in the middle of the night in severe pain

Types of Arthritis that Affect the Back

If you have arthritis in your back, it’s important to understand the type of arthritis that might be causing it. Different types of arthritis have specific medications and treatments. Here are some of the more common types of arthritis that affect the back.

It is common for people with back pain to have more than one cause, which could include arthritis as well as other causes (more on those below).

Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis (OA) is by far the most common form of back arthritis; risk increases with age. Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease where the cartilage cushioning the ends of a joint wears away gradually. In the back, OA commonly affects the facet joints, which are found at the back part of the vertebrae in the spine. As the cartilage wears away between the facet joints, it can cause pain and stiffness in the back. Patients with OA tend to have mechanical pain such as minimal pain in the morning, worse pain with activity, and improvement with rest, says Brett Smith, DO, a rheumatologist with Blount Memorial Physicians Group in Alcoa, Tennessee.

OA in the back usually coincides with disc changes in the back that become more common with age.

The vertebrae in the spine are cushioned with discs that have a jelly-like center. These discs are what give the spine its flexibility. Over time, the discs lose their cushioning and height. This causes the spaces between the vertebrae to compress, which can make them rub against each other. In response to this stress, the body starts to make bony growths called osteophytes (bone spurs), which can pinch the nearby nerves and cause weakness or numbness. This is part of a process known as spondylosis, and includes degenerative disc and facet arthritis. Sometimes this can lead to other issues like spinal stenosis (narrowing of the spinal canal) as well, says Dr. Kirschner.

Osteoarthritis often affects the lower back (lumbar spine) and neck (cervical spine) and develops through wear and tear, though it has a strong genetic component, too, says Jonathan S. Kirschner, MD, RMSK, physiatrist at Hospital for Special Surgery in New York City.

OA pain is typically more noticeable when you bend backward or twist your back or when you’re standing for a while, says. Dr. Kirschner.

Spondyloarthritis

Spondyloarthritis (SpA) is an umbrella term for several different types of arthritis that have certain traits and symptoms in common; namely, that they cause inflammation in the spine. Arthritis types in this category includes axial spondyloarthritis, psoriatic arthritis, reactive arthritis, enteropathic arthritis, and undifferentiated spondyloarthritis.

There are two main kinds of SpA: axial (in which symptoms predominantly affect the back, though other joints can be involved) and peripheral (where other joints in the body, like the hands, feet, or knees, are predominantly affected, though the back may be as well).

Axial Spondyloarthritis

Axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA) is the most well-known type of inflammatory arthritis for causing back pain. It is generally broken down into two types: non-radiographic axial spondyloarthritis (nr-axSpA) and ankylosing spondylitis (AS). Non-radiographic axial spondyloarthritis means inflammation is occurring in the spine and sacroiliac joints (which connect the spine to the pelvis) but damage to the joints is not visible on X-rays. With AS, damage to the joints can be seen on X-rays. AS, too, causes bony growths on the spine, but these are different from those that occur in osteoarthritis.

In AS, the hallmark bony growth is called a syndesmophyte, which originate in the low lumbar spine and work their way up the spine and do not project out, says Dr. Smith. They are calcifications of the ligaments, says Dr. Kirschner.

AxSpA occurs because the body’s immune system is overactive, releasing chemicals into the blood and joints that cause pain, stiffness, and eventually joint damage. Over time, the bony growths around the vertebrae can cause parts of the spine to fuse together, leading to limitations in flexibility and mobility.

Psoriatic Arthritis

Psoriatic arthritis (PsA) is another type of spondyloarthritis. It can cause back pain, but it more commonly affects the peripheral joints, such as those in the fingers, toes, and knees. However, research shows up to half of patients with PsA also have inflammation in the spine that causes inflammatory back pain-like symptoms.

Psoriatic arthritis is linked to psoriasis, an autoimmune skin disease that causes red, silver, scaly rashes on the skin. The majority of PsA patients have both psoriasis plaques as well as pain, stiffness, and swelling in various joints. However, in some patients, joint symptoms precede skin symptoms or skin symptoms can be very subtle, so people may not necessarily think to connect psoriasis and PsA.

Adding to the confusion: People with axial spondyloarthritis are at greater risk of also having psoriasis. For some patients who have both psoriasis and inflammatory back pain, it may not be entirely clear whether they have psoriasis and axial spondyloarthritis or psoriatic arthritis with back pain. Learn more here about how doctors distinguish axSpA from PsA.

Reactive Arthritis

Reactive arthritis is considered a type of peripheral spondyloarthritis that happens in reaction to an infection in your body. Common causes include gastrointestinal illnesses like Shigella, E. coli, or campylobacter. Additional causes include sexually transmitted infections, such as gonorrhea or chlamydia, or urinary tract infections. Conjunctivitis (inflammation of the eyelids) commonly accompanies the arthritis, says Adam Kilian, MD, a rheumatologist and assistant professor of medicine at The George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences in Washington, D.C. This arthritis is more common in smaller joints, but it affects the spine in about half of cases, he says.

Enteropathic Arthritis

Enteropathic arthritis, also known as inflammatory bowel disease-associated (IBD-associated) arthritis, is a peripheral spondyloarthritis that occurs in about 10 percent of people with inflammatory bowel disease (ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease), says Dr. Kilian. It commonly affects the sacroiliac joints, causing inflammatory lower back pain.

Undifferentiated Spondyloarthritis

This is a type of peripheral spondyloarthritis when it’s not entirely clear which type of peripheral spondyloarthritis is the most fitting diagnosis, says Dr. Kilian. Since the different types of spondyloarthritis have many common features, it may be difficult to differentiate them early in the course of disease when symptoms may be mild.

Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory disease in which the body’s immune system attacks itself, causing inflammation and pain in various joints. RA most commonly affects the joints of the limbs — and notably often first strikes in the hands and feet — but it can also affect the spine. When RA affects the back, the cervical spine (the neck) is affected, which may cause neck pain or sharp-shooting pains down the arms if the nerves are compressed, says Dr. Kilian.

Other Possible Causes of Back Pain

Lumbar Muscle Strain

Sometimes the muscles of the lower back become strained or spasm. This accounts for most cases of short-term (acute) back pain. These kind of back problems can occur from an injury, like lifting something improperly or overdoing it during physical activity. This can cause low back pain and stiffness, but it generally goes away within a few days to a few weeks.

Sciatica

The sciatic nerve is the largest nerve in the body, running from the lower part of the spinal cord, through the buttock, and down the back of the leg to the foot. Sciatica refers to pain that radiates from your lower back to your buttock and down the back of your leg. It is often accompanied by low back pain. It most commonly occurs when a herniated disc or narrowing of the space between the vertebrae compresses part of the nerves that go to the leg, says Dr. Kilian.

Scoliosis

You may never have realized it, but your spine may be curved to the side instead of straight, either in an “S”- or “C”-like shape. This condition is known as scoliosis. The physical changes of scoliosis often start in childhood or adolescence, but the condition might not start causing back pain until middle or older age. Scoliosis usually causes back pain from muscle imbalance or because it leads to other conditions (like spine arthritis or disc disease), but it in and of itself doesn’t cause pain, says Dr. Kirschner.

Fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia is a chronic pain disorder that is thought to be due to how the brain processes pain, rather than due to a mechanical or inflammatory trigger of pain. In patients with fibromyalgia, pain processing centers may be on “high alert” so things that ordinarily wouldn’t be painful to someone without the condition — say, gently brushing against someone — can be very painful to them. The condition is known for causing widespread muscle pain and extreme tenderness in many areas of the body, says Dr. Kilian. Many people also experience sleep problems, debilitating fatigue, headaches, and mood disturbances like depression and anxiety. The lower back is a common site of fibromyalgia pain.

Herniated Disc

A herniated disc is a problem with one of the rubbery cushions (discs) that sit between the individual bones (vertebrae) that stack to make your spine. A spinal disc has a soft, jellylike center (nucleus) encased in a tougher, rubbery exterior (annulus). A herniated disc occurs when some of the nucleus pushes out through a tear in the annulus. It can happen in any part of the spine and can irritate a nearby nerve. Depending on the herniated disc’s location, it can result in pain, numbness, or weakness in an arm or leg.

Degenerative Disc Disease

Degenerative disc disease is a condition where pain is caused from an unhealthy disc. Normally, discs don’t have much feeling, says Dr. Kirschner. But after a disc injury, new nerves grow into the area that can transmit pain signals, he says. Several factors can cause discs to degenerate, including age; smoking, disc herniations (injuries that cause tears in the outer lining of the disc leading to the inner core of the disc), and drying out of the disc. Degenerative disc disease is a separate but related process from osteoarthritis of the spine, as it can lead to bone spurs and joint degeneration.

Lumbar Spinal Stenosis

Lumbar spinal stenosis is a narrowing of the spinal canal through where the spinal cord and nerve roots run through within the spine, says Dr. Kirschner. This compresses the nerves that branch out from the spinal cord, causing symptoms such as tingling, numbness, or weakness. You may have sharp shooting pains that radiate down a leg. Or, pain can be dull, burning, tearing, or feel like a muscle pull, says Dr. Kirschner. These symptoms are often exacerbated by extending the back backward (such as when walking down the stairs) and relieved with flexing the back forward.

Osteoporosis-Related Fractures

As many as 54 million American adults age 50 and older have osteoporosis and low bone mass, according to the National Osteoporosis Foundation. Osteoporosis happens when your body creates new bone more slowly than it breaks down old bone tissue, resulting in weak and brittle bones that are abnormally porous and compressible, like a sponge. As bones weaken and become more brittle, a fall or even a mild stress event like coughing can cause bones to break. Fractures caused by osteoporosis often occur in the spine.

“Osteoporosis does not cause back pain unless a fracture is present,” says Dr. Kirschner. “But not all fractures are painful.” He says that because people don’t “feel” osteoporosis, people at an increased risk of osteoporosis should have regular bone density screenings and get appropriate treatment to reduce the risk of fractures, such as getting enough calcium and vitamin D, doing weight-bearing exercises, and taking bone-building medications if necessary.

Check out this osteoporosis risk calculator from the non-profit American Bone Health.

Other serious, though rare, conditions can also cause back pain, including infections, tumors, kidney stones, female reproductive problems like endometriosis or fibroids, or abdominal aortic aneurysm.

This is not a complete list of back pain causes and it’s important to see a health care provider to understand what might be causing your back pain.

How Arthritis in the Back Is Diagnosed

Diagnosing arthritis in the back begins with taking your medical history and doing a physical exam of your back and legs to assess your mobility/flexibility and make sure your nerves are working properly. The doctor will ask questions about:

• Where the pain is occurring
• How long the pain has lasted
• What the pain feels like/how severe it is
• What situations/activities make the pain feel better or worse
• How the pain is affecting/limiting your daily function

Imaging tests are usually needed to help confirm a diagnosis of arthritis. X-rays are typically the first imaging test ordered. They can joint damage/bone spurs, but cannot show damage to soft tissues such as muscles, ligaments, or bulging discs. Other tests may be ordered to look for changes or damage that is not visible on X-rays. These may include MRI, CT, ultrasound, bone scans, or other tests as needed. The gold standard to diagnose arthritis in the back is actually an injection called a medial branch block, but it’s not often necessary, says Dr. Kirschner.

If your doctor suspects you could have a type of inflammatory arthritis, they may order blood tests to look for signs of inflammation, such as C-reactive protein or erythrocyte sedimentation rate.

Other blood tests may look for genetic markers associated with axial spondyloarthritis, such as HLA-B27, or antibodies associated with rheumatoid arthritis (such as rheumatoid factor or anti-CCP).

How Arthritis in the Back Is Treated

Treatment for back arthritis depends on many factors, including your age, level of pain, type and severity of arthritis, other medical conditions and medications, and personal health goals. Because joint damage caused by arthritis is irreversible, treatment usually focuses on managing pain and preventing further damage.

Medications

Analgesics and Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)

Analgesics (such as acetaminophen) can help with mild to moderate pain and are considered a first-line medication for osteoarthritis, says Dr. Tiso. Over-the-counter NSAIDs like ibuprofen (Advil) and naproxen (Aleve), as well as prescription NSAIDs, can help relieve pain and swelling in the joints. However, though many NSAIDs are available over the counter, they can cause side effects (such as stomach ulcers, increased heart attack risk, and kidney problems), especially when taken for the long term and/or in high doses. NSAIDs are a first-line of treatment in OA as well as axial spondyloarthritis to reduce pain and stiffness. In inflammatory arthritis, they can be used along with other kinds of medication to treat inflammation, pain, and swelling.

Corticosteroids

Steroids are anti-inflammatory medications that may be used when there is an inflammatory cause of back pain. Your doctor may initially prescribe a steroid if you have a systemic inflammatory type of arthritis, says Dr. Kilian. However, if you don’t have inflammatory arthritis, steroids are typically not recommended.

Radiofrequency Ablation

Although not technically medication, another option for treating osteoarthritis in the back is radiofrequency ablation, an outpatient procedure in which the nerves to the facet joint are burned with a needle. The treatment can provide longer-term pain relief for some patients; pain can be eased for one to two years, says Dr. Kirschner. However, it may not work in all patients and recent osteoarthritis treatment guidelines say there is only limited evidence for its effectiveness. It has limited effectiveness in knee OA, but guidelines don’t comment on spine OA, says Dr. Kirschner. Other studies show that radiofrequency ablation of the spine is highly effective, he says. Read more here about radiofrequency ablation for arthritis pain.

Disease-Modifying Anti-Rheumatic Drugs (DMARDs)

Disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs include conventional immune-modifying drugs, such as methotrexate, as well as biologic medications, which are more targeted to certain immune system pathways. DMARDs reduce immune system activity to stop inflammation and they are only used to treat certain kinds of inflammatory arthritis, such as rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, and axial spondyloarthritis.

Many different types of DMARDs are available and some are more appropriate for certain types of arthritis than others. The type of DMARD that is recommended for you will depend on the type of inflammatory arthritis that you have, says Dr. Kilian, as well as other factors, like your insurance coverage.

Lifestyle Modifications

Weight Loss

The spine wasn’t meant to carry large amounts of excess weight. Maintaining a healthy weight helps reduce stress and pressure on the joints and losing excess pounds can lead to less pain and better function. One study published in the journal Arthritis & Rheumatology found that people who were overweight or obese had significantly more disc degeneration in the lumbar spine, for example.

Aim to eat an array of anti-inflammatory foods, which may help reduce inflammation. Choose colorful fruits and vegetables, legumes and nuts, olive oil, fish, and whole grains, says Dr. Kilian. Avoid heavily processed foods and simple carbs like breads, pastas, and foods high in added sugar.

“Maintaining a healthy weight minimizes excess force on the joints and is one of the most important aspects of joint health,” says Dr. Kilian.

Exercise

When your back is causing agony, exercise may be the last thing you can fathom. But exercise is a critical part of managing arthritis in the back, regardless of the type of arthritis. Check with your doctor before starting any new exercise plan; you may also want to work with a physical therapist or trainer who can show you how to modify exercises so they won’t exacerbate your pain.

For inflammatory types of arthritis like axial spondyloarthritis, gentle exercise, including stretching moves in yoga and Pilates, may actually make acute back pain feel better because it helps fight the stiffness that comes from revved-up inflammation.

For osteoarthritis, regular strength training and flexibility exercises are important to help strengthen core and back muscles, which support a healthy spine and may help prevent further joint degeneration.

Cardiovascular exercise, such as walking, swimming, or cycling, is also important to promote good circulation in the spine and help with maintaining a healthy weight.

Physical Therapy

Physical therapy has been shown to help with most types of back pain. Your doctor may send you for physical therapy to help improve your range of motion and strengthen the muscles in your back and core, which play a role in a large amount of back pain, says Dr. Smith.

Quit Smoking

Smoking typically makes arthritis more resistant to treatment and more difficult to control. It affects all tissues of the body and reduces the body’s ability to heal itself. “Smoking is awful for your bone health and impairs bone healing,” says Dr. Kilian. Talk to your doctor about strategies to help you quit, he says.

Adjust Posture

A physical therapist can provide postural training to make sure the way you naturally sit and stand doesn’t further contribute to your back pain. Your posture should be straight and upright with little to no slouching, says Dr. Tiso.

Avoid Being Sedentary

Also important: getting up at regular intervals if you have a job that keeps you sedentary. Sitting for prolonged periods isn’t good for the low back, he says. Take frequent breaks or try using a standing desk for periods of time throughout the day. It’s also a good idea to look at your work station and make adjustments if necessary. You may want to use an ergonomic chair that gives proper lumbar support or tools such as an ergonomic computer mouse or computer stand.

Surgery for Back Arthritis

Surgery is a last resort when it comes to arthritis in the back. “Know that 95 percent of people with back pain will not need surgery, and 75 percent will fully recover within three months,” says Dr. Tiso.

Doctors recommend that you try medications, physical therapy, and weight loss (if necessary) before considering surgery, says Dr. Kilian. “The best surgical outcomes often occur in patients who are actively involved in physical therapy and have a healthy body weight,” he says.

The type of surgery depends on the type of arthritis and region of the back that is affected. Depending on the procedure performed, surgery aims to decompress any pinched nerves and free up the nerve roots from bone spurs and other tissues that may be pressing on them.

Spinal fusion

Spine surgery may be performed if there is a danger to the nerves or as a last resort for severe disabling back pain, says Dr. Kilian. It’s most beneficial when nerve roots are severely compressed, he says. A spinal fusion, for example, fuses two or more vertebrae together in your spine permanently. Here, they won’t move. They’re typically done for severe spinal arthritis causing deformity or for scoliosis, says Dr. Kirschner.

Lumbar disc replacements

In a lumbar disc replacement, you replace a worn or degenerated disc in the lower part of your spine with an artificial disc. This disc is made of metal or metal and plastic. Not everyone is a good candidate for this type of surgery. You may be a good candidate if you’re not overweight or haven’t had spinal surgery, and your back pain mainly comes from one or two discs in your lower spine.

Just remember that arthritis in the back pain doesn’t have to get in your way of living a healthy and active life. “It shouldn’t be a crippling, life-ending problem,” says Jonathan Hersch, MD, FAAOS, an orthopedic surgeon and sport medicine physician at West Boca Medical Center in Boca Raton, Florida. “Most people can live a healthy and functional life with minimal pain if they seek the right medical attention.”

Not Sure What’s Causing Your Back Pain?

Check out PainSpot, our pain locator tool. Answer a few simple questions about what hurts and discover possible conditions that could be causing it. Start your PainSpot quiz.

Could Your Foot Pain Be Caused by a Problem With Your Back?

While it doesn’t seem like there should be such a connection, considering how sensitive and large the back is, foot pain can in fact be related to your back. It is not uncommon to have pain in the legs or feet without any significant lower back pain, yet the problem is still originating in the lumbar region of the lower back. Blame the funny way our nerves work sometimes, sending signals all over the place.

 

You might blame that foot pain on the sciatic nerve

If a nerve root in the lower back – or lumbar area of the spine – is irritated or compressed, this lower back condition can cause pain to radiate along the sciatic nerve all the way to the patient’s foot.

The sciatic nerve is a large nerve that begins near the base of the spine, extending downward through the lower extremities, traveling through the hips, buttocks, and legs, before coming to an end in the feet near the toes.

 

Symptoms of Sciatica

As we age, the lumbar spine begins to deteriorate and weaken. This can impact the sciatic nerve, and lead to symptoms of sciatica, including:

·        Pain

·        Numbness

·        Tingling

·        Weakness

·        Slower reflexes

·        Muscle spasms

The sciatic nerve is very important, as it sends sensory and motor information to much of the lower body. The sciatic nerve is what sends the commands which allow for basic movement, such as walking and sitting. When this nerve becomes constricted, inflamed, or compressed in the lumbar spine, often due to degenerative spine conditions that develop in the lower back, the set of symptoms is known as “sciatica”.

 

Conditions that can cause sciatica

There are several degenerative spine conditions which can lead to the impingement or compression of the sciatic nerve, including:

·        Lumbar degenerative disc disease

·        Facet disease

·        Lumbar spinal stenosis

·        Lumber herniated disc

·        Foraminal stenosis

·        Isthmic spondylolisthesis

·        Osteoarthritis

 

Treatment Options

Once your doctor diagnoses the cause of your pain as sciatica, a series of conservative treatment options may be recommended. Often, a combination of these treatments can sufficiently manage the problem. These may include:

·        Activity modification

·        Oral nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications

·        Epidural injections

·        Low-impact exercises

·        Stretching techniques

·        Physical therapy

When these conservative approaches to managing sciatica fail, it may be necessary to consider addressing the underlying cause with surgery.

 

If you are experiencing pain in your foot, or lower extremities, contact the Tucson Orthopaedic Instituteat one of their several area locations. You can schedule an appointment online, to be examined by one of their highly qualified, board-certified orthopedic surgeons. At Tucson Orthopaedic Institute, there are many non-invasive treatment options for diagnosing and treating sciatica, and we will work with you every step of the way until your pain subsides.

90,000 Back pain causes, symptoms and treatment

If we rank the most common reasons for visiting a doctor, back pain will take second place. More often they seek medical help only for respiratory diseases. According to the observations of scientists, more than 90% of the inhabitants of the Earth have experienced back pain at least once in their lives. And in most cases, this pain is caused by problems with the spine, that is, it is a symptom of various neurological diseases.

The good news is that such diseases can be successfully treated, the main thing is to make a diagnosis on time.In our clinic, you can undergo an appropriate examination and consult a neurologist.

How and why does pain occur?

It should be said that diseases of the spine are not always accompanied by pain. There may be no symptoms at all. But if there is still pain, then its cause is most often:

1. compression of nerve roots, vessels or spinal cord
2. muscle spasm, microtrauma of ligaments and other soft tissues.

In the first case, they speak of compression pain syndrome, and in the second, of reflex.If you are concerned about rather intense “shooting” back pains that radiate to other parts of the body, then there is a high probability that a nerve is pinched. If the pain is deep, aching and worsening with movement, then the problem is most likely in the muscles or soft tissues.

What diseases does back pain indicate?

Painful sensations are the body’s signal for help. In the case of the spine, pain can be a symptom of a variety of conditions. Let’s consider the most common ones.

1. Osteochondrosis . This disorder usually affects the discs between the vertebrae. Each disc consists of a gelatinous nucleus and an annulus fibrosus, which is cartilage. The nucleus gradually dries up, loses fluid, which is why cracks form in the annulus fibrosus. As a result, the disc height decreases and the surrounding muscles and ligaments begin to sag. In this case, the displacement of the vertebrae often occurs, osteophytes can form – bone growths. Pain in osteochondrosis is usually caused by muscle spasms, only in 5-8% of cases there is an infringement of the nerve roots.
2. Spondylosis . Dystrophic changes affect the surface of the vertebrae, as well as the anterior longitudinal ligament. This disease, in fact, is a “continuation” of osteochondrosis. Bone tissue begins to grow on the vertebrae, forming a kind of spurs – osteophytes. This is how the body tries to compensate for the excessive load on the ridge. The purpose of the bone spurs is to anchor the congested area. With spondylosis, dull aching pain is most often observed, caused by irritation of the nerve endings and muscle tension.If osteophytes squeeze the nerve roots, the pain sensations intensify, a person may be disturbed by “lumbago” in the back.
3. Radiculitis . In this case, just the roots of the spinal cord and peripheral nerves are affected. They are either impaired due to the processes described above, or they become inflamed due to infection. The intensity of pain can vary depending on how severely the root is affected. With back movements, sneezing, coughing, painful sensations intensify. Often, due to pain, a person has to take forced postures in order to alleviate his condition.The pain itself is usually strong, shooting, radiating to other parts of the body along the nerve.
4. Herniated disc . With such a pathology, pain also occurs due to compression of the nerve roots. If for any reason the fibrous ring of the intervertebral disc breaks, the nucleus inside it “flows” out – this is a hernia. It is she who presses on the roots, causing compression pain syndrome. The pain is often accompanied by a feeling of numbness, burning.

When to see a neurologist?

Diseases of the spine can lead to disability and even disability, therefore, back pain, albeit not too intense, should not be ignored.If medicines intended to relieve inflammation and pain relief do not help or help temporarily, this is a reason to contact our clinic. Only by making an accurate diagnosis can you hope to get rid of back pain. Our specialist will conduct a thorough examination, including a neurological one, and, if necessary, prescribe additional examinations. The most informative in this case are the following methods:

• X-ray of the spine
• Computed tomography (allows you to examine the bone structures in detail)
• Magnetic-nuclear resonance (gives an idea of ​​the state of the intervertebral disc, ligaments and spinal cord).

See also : Consultation with a surgeon, Acupuncture, Manual therapy, Massage.

Your back pain – Ravijuhend

Back pain is pain that occurs in the area between the lower ribs and the gluteal folds and can spread to one or both legs. Almost all people can have lower back pain at some point in their lives – this is completely normal and will almost always go away on its own. More than 90% of low back pain is so-called non-specific low back pain with a good prognosis, which means that it is not caused by any dangerous disease or nerve root entrapment.Nonspecific low back pain is usually caused by small soft tissue changes such as muscle tension and tenderness in the tissues surrounding the spine. Very rarely, in only 0.9% of cases, low back pain is caused by a serious medical condition such as a fractured spine, tumor, infection, systemic inflammatory rheumatic disease, or other medical condition (see Signs of Danger). These conditions are different from nonspecific low back pain and can usually be diagnosed by your doctor with a questionnaire, examination, and, if necessary, a blood test.

It should be noted that even if the pain is severe and interferes with daily activities, it is unlikely to indicate a serious illness or injury. With severe back pain, there may not be any visible damage or tissue damage – your back just feels tender. Even with small changes, the pain receptor system can be activated and cause pain. Factors that can affect your pain sensations include mood and stress levels, previous pain sensations, sleep quality, lifestyle, and general physical health.

Low back pain usually improves over a period of a few days to 2–3 weeks, but sometimes it takes longer. Lower back pain may recur, but this does not mean that there is a serious cause for concern. Sometimes low back pain with a good prognosis can also last a long time. Constant, i.e. chronic low back pain is pain that lasts more than 12 weeks. Why our brain and the pain receptor system at some point decide that the pain will remain, even if there is no damage – we, unfortunately, do not know.Longer-lasting low back pain may be due to our own thinking or behavior that interferes with recovery. Factors such as the intensity of pain, accompanying shooting pain in the legs, obesity or smoking can contribute to the persistence of lower back pain and the formation of disability in the presence of intense pain. Depression, fear of illness, intense fear of pain, hard physical work, job dissatisfaction or the search for social guarantees interfere with recovery.In some cases, repetitive movements and forced postures can contribute to the persistence of lower back pain.

Thoughts that may make recovery slow:

Pain is dangerous and uncontrollable I probably have a very serious illness, the doctors cannot find it The pain is likely to get worse when I move more and do something more actively The pain must completely disappear before I can return to work I do not exercise because it is not a treatment I am only helped by passive therapies such as warming, electrotherapy, acupuncture, manual therapy, etc.d. I have frequent mood swings (depression, anxiety) I was left alone with my problems My job is too difficult for me and aggravates my illness I have no job, I could lose my job I handle my illnesses and treatments so thoroughly that I no longer have enough time and energy for daily activities such as work, hobbies and friends

Low back pain usually does not mean a serious injury. Low back pain in 99% of cases does not indicate a life-threatening disease.

Spinal tests (x-rays, computed tomography, or magnetic resonance imaging) usually do not help find the cause of non-specific low back pain. The examination does not change the rate of recovery from lower back pain or the treatment plan. Many of the changes found during examinations may scare you, but in fact they are quite common, occur in many people and do not cause pain.At the same time, surveys performed “just in case” have risks that are best avoided. For example, ionizing radiation from X-rays and computer screening increases the risk of cancer. In addition, changes observed during the examination can cause severe stress, anxiety and anxiety, even if they are minor. A person may begin to believe that his back is damaged and needs protection, because of this, the fear of pain increases, the muscles become even more tense and movement becomes more difficult.The above, in turn, complicates recovery and increases the likelihood of unnecessary surgery. Imaging exams are important in deciding whether to undergo surgery or to identify serious causes of back pain, such as tumors, infections, and vertebral fractures. Only a very small group of people (less than 1%) have serious conditions that cause back pain that your doctor can recognize.

Not all causes of back pain can be recognized during examinations.Lifestyle risk factors are very important!

Schematic diagram of the need for an examination

In the case of non-specific low back pain, examinations in the acute pain phase (up to 6 weeks) are usually not required.

There is a lot you can do yourself to relieve back pain. The pain can be frightening and it is natural to be afraid of it, but avoidance of physical activity, fear and reluctance to leave bed tend to keep the pain alive.

For normal or non-specific low back pain, physical activity does not harm your back. The pain goes away more quickly if you stay physically active and continue with your daily activities for as long as possible despite the pain. Pain relievers can also help you recover faster. Limit (but do not rule out) activities that make your pain worse, but at the same time gradually increase the amount of other physical activity.

Normal daily activities include going to work, household chores, and leisure.Continuing to live a normal life will distract you from pain as much as possible and your back will not get weak or numb.

If it is really necessary to take sick leave, it should be short-term and its goal should be to return to work as soon as possible, if possible at least part-time .

When the pain has subsided, you can try more vigorous back exercises. In the case of more complex conditions, rehabilitation treatment is necessary.

There are other ways to treat pain besides physical activity: get enough sleep, quit smoking, manage stress, and achieve a healthy weight.

Tips for recovering from back pain:

• In case of back pain, it is necessary to move and gradually increase the load
• Do not be afraid of pain, because pain does not necessarily mean dangerous injury or damage
• If your back hurts, relax, breathe calmly, move and try to move your back as usual
• Movement and stress keep your back strong and healthy
• Your free time activities are not hazardous to your back.
• Forward bends are safe.
• Try to get back to work as soon as possible
• Move regularly if you feel better
• Get a good night’s sleep, normalize your weight and stop smoking to help you get rid of back pain
• Quitting smoking helps keep your back healthy

The goal of pain management is to reduce the discomfort caused by your pain and quickly regain mobility.Pain relievers are never used as the only treatment.

Do not endure pain! The sooner you can control your pain, the faster you will recover. When the pain subsides, you can also increase your physical activity!

Pain relievers should be used to treat low back pain for a short time. Immediate pain relief effectively promotes recovery and allows you to quickly restore your daily rhythm of life.If the pain persists after 5-7 days, even if you are on pain relievers and are still active, talk to your family doctor.

Medicines

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen, diclofenac, dexketoprofen, naproxen, aceclofenac, ketoprofen, and etoricoxib are usually required to treat low back pain. Side effects of taking these drugs for a long time can include damage to the gastrointestinal tract (such as stomach and small intestine ulcers), kidney damage, and worsening or complication of cardiovascular disease (from high blood pressure to heart attack).If you have any of the above conditions, your doctor will need to evaluate how well this type of medication is right for you. Sometimes your doctor will need a combination of medicines to relieve pain: add paracetamol or use opioids such as tramadol, codeine, oxycodone, and morphine. These medicines can cause side effects such as nausea, vomiting, constipation, and drowsiness. Therefore, opioid use can affect your ability to perform activities that require concentration, such as driving a car.Opioids are more likely to be taken for a short time while the pain is severe and NSAIDs have no effect or are contraindicated. Opioids may be necessary for very severe back pain, and there is no need to fear that short-term use of opioids can lead to dependence.

Other drugs that affect the nervous system are sometimes added to the pain management regimen. Antidepressants are also used to treat low back pain, especially for chronic pain. In the human brain, there are many similarities between the mechanism of chronic pain and the mechanism for regulating mood or stress.Therefore, antidepressants may be part of a chronic pain regimen, not because you are depressed or stressed, but because antidepressants relieve pain through other mechanisms.

To relieve pain and achieve faster treatment results, the following principles should be followed:

• Pain medications should be taken by mouth (tablets), no injections or other drugs are required.
• Initially, pain relievers should be taken regularly at regular intervals.
• Anesthetic drug (s) are selected individually depending on the severity of pain, concomitant diseases, etc.
• Medicines should be taken in the correct amount (optimal dose), i.e. not too little and not too much
• Pain management is gradual, that is, if one drug does not relieve pain, then more effective drugs are included in the treatment regimen
• The same types of pain relievers cannot be combined with each other.For example, ibuprofen, a member of the NSAID group, is not used in combination with diclofenac from the same group.
• Do not take several medicines with the same active ingredient, as this can cause a dangerous overdose.
• Tell your doctor or nurse if you have or have any gastrointestinal problems, bleeding, asthma, liver, kidney or heart disease, or allergies to medications.

Untreated pain that lasts for several weeks along with a feeling of fear can lead to chronic pain and / or depression.In the case of a chronic pain mechanism, the brain’s pain control center is disrupted. In this case, pain relief becomes more difficult, and you will need even more of your own activity, specialist intervention and medication to treat it.

In the case of chronic pain, the pain management regimen should be reviewed. Sometimes it is necessary to improve other aspects of treatment (rehabilitation, cognitive-behavioral therapy, etc.) and to revise the pain management regimen.

Discuss additional treatments with your family doctor.

When acute back pain occurs, you can first try to find body positions on your own to ease the pain and movement. Then, restorative treatment is usually not required. When the initial pain has subsided, it is recommended that you continue with the exercise.

If necessary, your doctor will refer you to a physical therapist who will teach you the exercises and make sure they are available to you and are being performed correctly. People with seemingly large, strong muscles are often surprised to learn that certain muscles are actually weak and need to be trained separately.

A physical therapist will create an exercise program that suits you. In the future, you must do the exercises yourself. Moderate exercise and muscle maintenance will help relieve or eliminate your pain and reduce the risk of recurrence of pain attacks or pain becoming chronic.

You can also try the exercises in the water. This can be beneficial for recovery, as people with back problems are encouraged to exercise in the water and swim.

If your pain persists with the initial mild methods or continues to bother you for more than 8 weeks, you need a complex, comprehensive rehabilitation. To do this, your family doctor will refer you to a rehabilitation doctor (rehabilitation therapist) who will draw up an individual treatment plan for you. The rehabilitation physician uses combination therapy and, if necessary, in addition to the physiotherapist, includes other members of the rehabilitation team of specialists, such as an occupational therapist, clinical psychologist and pain management specialist.

Additional help is often required using passive therapy in which the person is not actively involved, such as electrotherapy, stretching therapy, manual therapy, and massage. Nevertheless, the main key aspect of successful treatment is considered to be the activity of the patient himself and the further process of recovery, improvement and maintenance of physical shape. However, manual therapy, acupuncture, and massage combined with exercise can also relieve pain.Electrotherapy and the use of orthoses for lower back pain are not recommended.

In the phase of very acute back pain, warming creams and warm treatments (such as paraffin wax and mud) should be used with caution in the beginning, as they can worsen back pain. In most cases, they are well suited for the pain relief phase and chronic pain.

In the case of chronic back pain, your rehabilitation treatment may take longer, as part of this, the physiotherapist will develop an individual exercise program that will take into account the specifics of your condition.Exercise may gradually become more intense as you recover.

For persistent low back pain, your health care provider or rehabilitation therapist may consider referring you to a clinical psychologist who will use a variety of treatments and teach you how to best deal with your pain. If your mood has dropped and medications have not helped, sometimes you need to see a psychiatrist to relieve depression.

Exercise, keeping the spine in motion, and strengthening the muscles reduce pain and prevent pain from recurring.e. Physical activity plays an important role in the treatment of low back pain. Therefore, regular physical activity should be a faithful companion in your life in the future.

Already during the first onset of lower back pain, it is recommended to start aerobic training for the first 2 weeks, and then extend the training period. If the pain subsides, back exercises should be added. As your physical fitness improves, you can start training your muscles throughout your body.

You should do aerobic workouts longer and more often.Additional training can be carried out on weekends. Stretching is part of your workout routine, it relieves muscle tension and is very important for heavy, high-intensity exercise and the elderly.

• Aerobic Training:

– walking, Nordic walking, swimming, cycling, water gymnastics, dancing, etc.
– 30 minutes at least 5 days a week with moderate physical activity

• If you are overweight, then if you feel well, you should continue training.
• Overweight Exercise is a moderate-intensity workout of at least 60 minutes and at least 5 days a week.
• Muscle training – 8-12 times for the whole body, each exercise for large muscle groups 2-3 times a week
• Stretching at least 3 days a week, and stretching exercises are recommended after each workout

Regular exercise guarantees good health, the main thing is that the exercise is pleasant for you, so your mood will improve.Participation in group training also works well.

Pilates and oriental exercises such as Tai Chi and Yoga are very effective with regular exercise to treat chronic pain and prevent back pain. These exercises simultaneously strengthen muscles and restore tissue elasticity and spine mobility.

When exercising, you should first monitor how you feel to prevent inappropriate postures.

If necessary, ask your doctor, physician or physiotherapist for advice on the exercise that is right for you.

Be sure to seek advice if you have osteoporosis, spinal instability, advanced osteoarthritis or other serious joint problems, or if you have had a knee or hip replacement.

If the pain persists despite everything, it will be helpful for you to learn to live with your pain.

Recommendations for people with back pain:

• Stay physically active
• If you have to sit for a long time, get up every 15 minutes – stretch, walk and use large muscle groups
• Use ladder
• Get off one stop early and walk
• Dance whenever good music sounds, for at least half a minute
• Get good cleaning and maintenance tools that are comfortable to work in an upright position.Swap hands and sides
• Purchase a special therapy rubber ball (fitball) or a balance stand that is installed on the chair to watch TV while sitting on them. Take a short walk or stretch during each commercial break
• Stop watching TV or using the computer every quarter of an hour, change your seating position or posture.
• Take a break from daily activities or work if you are in pain
• Do not drag out the work until your strength runs out, but finish 5-10 minutes earlier and rest
• Use reminder tools as needed

During the treatment of back pain, it helps to understand that back pain (if there was no injury) usually does not mean any kind of back injury or dangerous illness.Move, be active, work and do what is important to you Physiotherapists can help you design customized exercises as needed Don’t fall into the trap of someone confidently promising to tidy up your back – this rarely works in the long run, it’s important to remember that you are the only real key to successful treatment and good back health! When you are sent for testing, keep in mind that many of the test results are common to all people. If back pain persists and is of concern, seek the advice of your family doctor. In the event of any danger signs, contact your family doctor immediately The team of specialists involved in the treatment of chronic nonspecific back pain often includes several specialists (e.g. physiotherapist, rehabilitation physician, pain specialist, clinical psychologist)

Contact your (family) doctor immediately if you have any of the following symptoms (so-called danger signs):

1.Low back pain accompanied by difficulty emptying or controlling bladder or bowel
2. Low back pain accompanied by numbness around the genitals or both legs
3. Back pain is accompanied by a feeling of weakness in the leg (s), which increases every day
4. Back pain is the result of a more serious injury
5. Constant very severe back pain that does not improve after taking painkillers
6.Feeling unwell with low back pain, episodes of fever, or unexplained weight loss
7. Severe increasing pain, unexplained weight loss, previously diagnosed malignant neoplasm

Pain in the perineum treatment in Yekaterinburg

Pain in the perineum can be caused by various factors, including diseases of the spine, damage to ligaments, tendons, muscles of the pelvic region with nerve entrapment, psychogenic factors.Doctors of the Vertebrocenter in Yekaterinburg record patients for examination, diagnostics, complex therapy to eliminate pelvic pain, discomfort in the perineum. The site contains a detailed price list of services with prices, having studied which you can sign up for a survey at the center.

The nature of the pain syndrome in the perineum

• Pain in the sacrum, in the penis, its head and in the anus. Severe pain can cause acute urethritis, prostate abscesses, end-stage cancer.Sudden sharp pain occurs when the pudendal nerve is pinched. While a person is in a standing position, there is no pain, but when walking or sitting, it will intensify.
• Aching and pulling pains occur in the presence of chronic diseases of the genitourinary system. Patients often describe this kind of pain as a burning sensation in the perineum. The pain may worsen with a bowel movement while sitting. Unpleasant aching sensations in the perineum can occur after childbirth, due to damage to soft tissues, scars.

Discomfort in men is most often associated with diseases of the prostate gland and inflammation of the pelvic organs. But after long-term treatment with the urologist, the discomfort does not go away, then you need to look for the source of the pain elsewhere. A reason to contact the vertebrologist of our center.

Treatment and diagnostics

Experienced doctors of the clinic will be able to identify the causes of pain in the perineum. Sharp, shooting, dull, bursting, pulling pain can occur suddenly, even at night.This may be a sign of a serious illness that cannot be delayed with treatment. The clinic’s specialists will carry out professional diagnostics in order to prescribe the correct treatment:

• ultrasound;
• clinical examination
• MRI
• laboratory examination;

Among the methods of treatment:

• taking special medications;
• physiotherapy;
• injection of drugs into the perineum, including under ultrasound control;
• osteopathy;
• massage;

  To avoid the sudden onset of painful sensations, restriction of a normal lifestyle, it is necessary to prevent various diseases, maintain a healthy and active lifestyle, have a balanced diet, exclude hypothermia, stress.

Treatment and prevention of back pain

In Germany, about 11 million people suffer from acute or chronic back pain. Today, such pain is called the new disease of the century: more and more prolonged work at the computer, stress and lack of physical activity are common causes of back problems. As a result, the number of patients with chronic back pain has more than doubled over the past ten years. Fortunately, there are a number of gentle therapies that have been successful in relieving pain and restoring back mobility.Here you will find all the important information about the causes, symptoms, and treatment and prevention options for back pain.

What causes back pain?

Back pain can be caused by a variety of reasons. In addition to sedentary lifestyles and extended unilateral office sitting, stress and associated muscle tension negatively impact back health. Plus, the link between back pain and being overweight can hardly be denied.In about 60 percent of cases, the affected area is the lower back, that is, the lumbar spine (LSP), which consists of five vertebrae. In addition, pain can occur in the thoracic spine (TSP) and the cervical spine (SHOP), but it is much less common.

A short list of the causes of back pain

• Hypodynamics
• Stress
• Excess weight
• Drafts
• Spine wear
• Osteoporosis
• Osteoporosis
• Whiplash after accident
• Herniated disc

Intervertebral disc

• Tumors and metastases
• Bone thickening (Paget’s disease)
• Spinal circulation disorders

What are the symptoms of back pain?

In most cases, back pain is not dangerous and will go away on its own.Back pain can come on suddenly (lumbago), for example, with sudden or uncomfortable movement. Or they can gradually build up. In addition, patients often have other accompanying symptoms, for example:

• muscle pain;
• shooting or stabbing pains;
• pain radiating to the leg;
• limitation of mobility;
• Difficulty with straightening the trunk to an upright position;
• back pain in women;
• back pain patients, sparing position.

Another problem arises: the patient with back problems often tries to adopt a gentle position that allows him to avoid painful movements, but at the same time causes the affected muscles to tense or degenerate. As a result, the pain becomes even worse, and the patient moves even less. A vicious circle emerges. In this regard, it is important to start therapy in a timely manner so that back pain does not become chronic, that is, lasting more than three months.Therefore, the golden rule applies here.

If your back pain lasts more than two weeks, you need to find out the cause from an experienced orthopedist who specializes in spinal diseases!

How is back pain treated?

The main goal in the treatment of back pain is for the patient to get rid of pain as soon as possible and return to their normal life. The treatment itself depends on the individual causes and the severity of pain:

What helps with back pain:

• Warming procedures
• Pain relievers (including injections)
• Targeted relaxation
• Massage
• Physiotherapy
• Sports and movement
• Surgical treatment

When it comes to minor pain, it is usually caused by muscle tension.In this situation, warmth will help, which will return the muscles to a relaxed state. If the pain is severe, it is advisable to conduct analgesic therapy in order to return the patient to the ability to move normally and to avoid taking sparing positions.

For severe or acute back pain, we use visualized guided injections to quickly relieve pain. In this case, we inject the patient with an analgesic and, if necessary, an anti-inflammatory drug directly into the affected area.This usually allows you to achieve rapid pain relief with fewer drugs and, as a rule, without heavy and stressful operations.

Your advantage with us: an individual treatment concept

In our four medical centers, you will receive a number of advantages: As an interdisciplinary competence center, we carry out a comprehensive examination of the patient, not just in terms of the respective discipline. Our doctors are in interdisciplinary collaboration and are constantly trained at an international level, striving to offer you the most modern and best therapy.We will also save you from unnecessary repeated visits to the clinic, since all the necessary examinations are usually carried out in our center in one day. In this way, you will receive an individualized treatment concept in the shortest possible time. We turn to surgery as a last resort and consider this option only if conservative or minimally invasive measures do not bring any relief.

Preventing Back Pain

Movement

Five Essential Tips for Avoiding Back Pain:

• When lifting weights: be sure to bend your knees and straighten your back
• Choose the right mat bed frame
• Create an ergonomic workstation for yourself
• Lose weight
• If you have a sedentary job: get up and move several times a day

Movement, namely physical activity, is essential for a strong back and healthy spine without pain.Movement improves circulation, so more warming blood flows through the muscles of the back, the spine becomes more flexible, and clamps and spasms go away. Instead, it builds up new muscle mass that protects the entire spine.

Gymnastics

To strengthen your back muscles, it is useful to do back exercises. Performing these exercises regularly relieves painful tension from the back muscles and strengthens them. You can learn these exercises from a fitness center specialist or a special back health course.If you are not trained in these exercises, do not do them yourself – it can do more harm than good.

The right bed

The right bed also plays a decisive role in the prevention of back pain. The frame, mattress and pillow must be carefully selected and of high quality. It is best to consult a specialist. If you usually sleep on your side, the mattress should be soft enough for your shoulders and pelvis to lower to straighten your spine.A well-chosen pillow will also help keep the cervical vertebrae at the level of the spine. If you sleep in bed with your partner, you should have different mattresses and bed frames so that each of you will lie on the bed that is most comfortable for you.

Driving in a car without back pain

The numerous jolts and mini-impacts that occur while driving in a car affect the natural vibration of the spine and constantly subject it to increased stress.As a result, back pain may occur on the road. To avoid this, you need to make sure that the car seats are good at absorbing vibration and easily adjustable to the length of the legs. A good car seat has the following adjustment options.

• Seat height and depth must be adjustable from the backrest to the front edge of the seat and can be ergonomically and easily adjusted by hand to suit the driver’s needs.
• Seat tilt must be adjustable.
• The backrest should be soft to absorb shocks and adjustable both vertically and horizontally.
• Armrests should be wide, sufficiently padded and adjustable on both sides, just like the headrest.

Prevention of back pain during sedentary work

Incorrect sitting position or office furniture that does not correspond to physiological needs almost always cause back problems in offices: about 85 percent of all office workers are from time to time or constantly in their workplaces in an absolutely wrong position from the point of view of ergonomics.In this case, there are some simple but effective tips.

• The writing desk is ideally height when the elbows are flat on it and form a right angle with the shoulders. Since people are of different heights, the height of the table should be adjusted as much as possible. The work surface should be wide enough (about 160 centimeters), not reflective, ideally slightly raised at its back and should also be adjustable. This will prevent the person sitting at the computer from being overly stressed for a long time.
• Office chair is the most important piece of furniture in the office! It should be soft, have a rounded front edge, and its seat should be large enough to accommodate the buttocks without having to move forward or backward. The edges of the seat should not press on the thighs, so as not to restrict blood circulation in the legs. The seat should move forward and backward, and the back should be slightly bent forward to support the lumbar vertebrae and prevent them from sagging backward.

90,000 causes and treatment in Krasnoyarsk

Advantages of treatment in our clinic: Accurate diagnostics on unique devices and after examination by an experienced vertebrologist and traumatologist; An attentive approach to each client and development of an individual treatment regimen depending on your age, type of disease and the degree of its neglect; Many possibilities for getting rid of diseases of the musculoskeletal system: spinal traction, manual manipulation, therapeutic massage, procedures on the unique DRX apparatus; Author’s system of therapy: carefully, without pain and injury, quickly, effectively ; Not only basic treatment is prescribed, but to consolidate the result and a rehabilitation course (gymnastics, herbal remedies, massage).

Causes of pain in the tailbone

The lower spine often hurts in children due to birth trauma or unsuccessful fall , after improperly performed physical education exercises.

In adults, pain in the coccyx occurs due to osteochondrosis, pinched nerves, muscle disease, displacement of intervertebral discs , as well as after injury. In addition, the lower back can be troublesome due to non-spinal problems.Therefore, it is so important to contact experienced specialists in order to immediately recognize the exact cause of the discomfort and not delay treatment. The clinic of Dr. Savyak employs highly qualified diagnosticians who can detect even hidden diseases.

General causes of discomfort in the coccygeal bone :

• fractures, displacements, sprains ;
• injuries – a sharp fall on the buttocks, damage during active children’s games or physical activity at work;
• diseases of the spine affecting the lower section: osteochondrosis, hernia, etc.NS.;
• ailments of the genitourinary system, intestines ;
• Consequence of difficult childbirth ;
• cyst .

Which doctor should I contact if my tailbone hurts

First, it is necessary to exclude the trauma of the lower spine. To do this, visit traumatologist in the clinic of Oleg Savyak. If the assumption is not confirmed, you will be referred to chiropractor . The specialist will correct the displaced vertebrae, restore healthy muscle function and relax pinched nerve endings.

After a thorough diagnosis, help from doctors in other fields may be required: gynecologist, urologist, gastroenterologist . In this case, the tailbone can be absolutely healthy – the pain simply radiates to the lower back. Nevertheless, it is safer to start the examination in a highly specialized center – the Institute of Spine Rehabilitation. Vertebrologists at the Savyak clinic will be able to identify musculoskeletal pathologies even at an early stage.

Treatment of pain in the coccyx

The therapy in our medical center is predominantly conservative. With the help of massage, traction on modern devices, manual influence and physiotherapy exercises , you will forget about discomfort in the back. The author’s technique will allow not only to eliminate the problem, but also to prevent its recurrence.

Avoid complications and conditions when you cannot do without an operation. Make an appointment at the Savyak clinic without delay.

90,000 Which doctor should I contact with back pain in the lumbar region

Neurologists of Moscow – latest reviews

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I liked everything.At the reception, Nikolai Viktorovich examined, consulted and prescribed tests. I will come to him for a second appointment. The doctor is polite, attentive, professional in his field.

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They called a specialist home.Due to traffic jams, the doctor was a little late. Valery Rudolfovich is a polite, correct and cultured doctor. The reception lasted forty minutes. The doctor performed a qualified examination and asked about the medical history. He gave recommendations, explained everything in an accessible way and answered questions. He also prescribed treatment and undergo an MRI. We will contact this specialist again. This is the doctor I would recommend.

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06 December 2021

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Moderation,

07 December 2021

I made an appointment with the neurologist Aleksandr Andreevich Khripunov.All in all, okay. The appointment lasted about 15 minutes, the doctor presented information in an accessible manner, answered questions. I would recommend this doctor to my friends and acquaintances as a specialist, but the clinic is probably not.

Kristina,

06 December 2021

An attentive, friendly doctor.The reception went well, I liked everything, especially since I was dealing with a rather delicate problem. I turned to him in the direction of a gastroenterologist. Vladimir Germanovich listened to my complaints, collected a full anamnesis, conducted an examination, explained everything sensibly to me and gave me recommendations. I was satisfied, everything suited me.

Moderation,

07 December 2021

The doctor was pleased with the attentive attitude and high-quality reception.I had a consultation with him on a problem associated with a pinched nerve. I was satisfied with the service provided and the prescribed treatment. The doctor’s prescriptions brought results very quickly, and my work capacity was restored. I can recommend it and if the problem occurs again, I will definitely return to the appointment.

Darya,

06 December 2021

They called a neurologist at home.Very attentive and competent doctor. We hope that everything will be fine now! During the appointment, Vadim Valentinovich told what to do, gave an injection, gave recommendations and prescribed a treatment plan. He even left a personal phone number so that you could contact him if you have any questions. We are glad! It got easier at the moment. I recommend a specialist!

Helena,

05 December 2021

I liked the reception.Rimma Leonidovna is an attentive specialist. Knowledgeable doctor. The doctor listened to me and asked about my symptoms, why I decided to see a hirudotherapist.