Back Safety - Causes and Anatomy of Back Injuries

Back injuries affect over 80% of us at some point in our lives. In the workplace, over 2 million workers experience back injuries and it costs employers over 30 billion dollars annually. Not only do back injuries affect our work lives but our personal lives as well. The back is part of virtually every movement we make and injuries to it can affect quality of live dramatically - sometimes resulting in debilitating pain that results in unemployment.

When we think of back injuries we think of heavy lifting that results in a traumatic one-time injury, however, most of the time this is not the case. Back injuries are the result of repeated stress over many years and surprisingly it's not always heavy lifting that causes it. The sedimentary lifestyles that are so prevalent today are also a factor.

The back is a complicated grouping of bones, ligaments, muscles, tendons and nerves which are amazingly strong, yet easily damaged. Most workers don't take precautions to protect the back, yet injuries can be prevented if we understand how the back works.

Backs are extremely flexible and yet rigid enough to support half of our body weight. The foundation of your back, the spine, also has enough flexibility for you to bend down and touch your toes. The spine is made up of 33 bones known as vertebrae. 24 of these bones are moveable through hinged, facet joints that guide movement and give stability. The vertebrae are cushioned by intervertebral discs that act like shock absorbers. In a healthy spine the vertebrae form an "S" curve. The spinal cord is an information line to your brain and spinal injuries can cause pain and numbness in other areas, paralysis or even death.

Because these areas of the back are so flexible, it also makes them particularly vulnerable to injury. In fact, most people injure the lumbar region of their back at some point in their lives. Strained muscles and ligaments are the most common causes of back pain, but with treatment these types of injuries usually heal quickly.

"Ruptured" or "herniated" discs are the most common type of spinal injury. Most of these ruptures occur in the lower two discs in the lumbar region. Also known as a slipped disc, these injuries occur when the elastic part of the disc ruptures and the gelatinous matter protrudes into the spinal canal putting pressure on the spinal cord. This causes back pain and numbness. Ruptured discs can also occur in the cervical region due to whiplash - a sudden jolt like a car accident. These discs usual heal themselves with proper treatment but full healing doesn't occur for us to 2 years.

Back pain can also be caused by chronic diseases that affect the spine. Mostly commonly this manifests itself in narrowing of the spine, bone loss or arthritis. Arthritis is the most common type of chronic back injury disease and is characterized by pain and stiffness of the back. Arthritis is generally inflammation in the lining of the bones and joints, but could also be loss of cartilage or bone spurs. It most commonly occurs in people over 50 but can occur at any age.

Arthritis is just one of the things that causes are back to degenerate as we get older. As the body ages muscles, ligaments and joints weaken and wear out. The aging process is inevitable but being overweight, bad posture and lifting incorrectly can hasten the breakdown.

Back Safety is possibly the most important part of a workplace safety program. More people will suffer from back injuries than any other type of workplace injury. It affects employees in every part of a company from office to manufacturing staff. Understanding the back's anatomy and causes of back pain is the first step in avoiding injury.

The Basics of Spinal Decompression Therapy

Spinal Decompression Therapy is a non-surgical traction based treatment that can effectively treat back, neck, arm, and leg pain. It works extremely well for treating herniated or bulging discs in the neck and lower back along with degenerative disc disease, spinal stenosis, facet arthritis, failed back surgery syndrome, sciatica, and radiculopathy.

The FDA cleared spinal decompression therapy in 1996. It's extremely safe, affordable, and revolutionary.

How Does Spinal Decompression Work?

The treatment is traction-based, with gradual application and release of traction forces designed to "trick" the para-spinal muscles so they do not guard or spasm.

This creates a negative pressure on the spine, which then allows increased blood flow bringing along substantial oxygen and nutrients. This allows the protruded or herniated disc to be pulled back within the normal confines of the disc, which permits healing to occur.

What Conditions Benefit from Spinal Decompression?

繚 Herniated Discs Neck & Back
繚 Bulging Discs
繚 Degenerative Disc Disease
繚 Failed Surgery
繚 Sciatica
繚 Radiculopathy
繚 Spinal Arthritis
繚 Spinal Stenosis
繚 Facet Syndrome

Is Spinal Decompression Therapy Painful? How Many Sessions are Needed?

For the vast majority of patients, treatment is completely painless. A considerable amount of patients actually fall asleep during the sessions.

Based on research and our providers' clinical experience, the best results are achieved with 20 sessions over a six-week period. To reduce inflammation and assist the healing process, supporting structures sometimes are treated with passive therapies (ice/heat/muscle stimulation), chiropractic adjustments (when indicated) and/or active rehabilitation in order to strengthen the spinal musculature.

Are there Clinical Trials that Document the Effectiveness of Spinal Decompression Therapy?

There are quite a few actually, although none are Level 1 studies. In a study published in the Journal of Neuroimaging in 1998, Eyerman found in 20 patients that utilization of spinal decompression therapy resulted in disc herniation reduction and disc rehydration in over half of the patients.

A study in the American Journal of Pain Management by Shealy et al in 1997 showed that 86% of ruptured intervertebral disc patients achieved good to excellent results with decompression. Sciatica and back pain were relieved substantially and of the facet arthrosis patients, 75% obtained good to excellent results with spinal decompression.

One of the most well known studies on decompression therapy was published in the Orthopedic Technology Review in 2003 by Gionis et al. Out of 219 patients, 86% who completed treatment reported immediate resolution of their symptoms, while 84% remained pain free 90 days post-treatment. Physical examination findings showed improvement in 92% of the patients and remained intact in 89% of the patients 90 days after treatment.

Are there Conditions where Spinal Decompression Therapy is Not Indicated?

Decompression Treatment is not recommended for pregnant women, people with severe osteoporosis, or post spinal surgery with instrumentation. Spinal fusion surgery without instrumentation is okay as well as spinal surgery without a fusion.

Do Patients Also Receive Physical Therapy and Rehab Exercises?

Typically yes. To reduce inflammation and to assist in the spinal healing process, physical therapy along with rehab is usually added to strengthen the paraspinal musculature. Also passive therapies like ice (cryotherapy),heat, muscle stimulation, and chiropractic adjustments are added to the mix as well.

How Much Does it Cost and does Insurance cover it?

The cost for 20 sessions ranges typically from $1200 to $4500, which is very reasonable considering the cost and potential adverse outcomes associated with spine surgery.

It's debatable whether insurance covers spinal decompression therapy. Some practices advertise that it does but it can be potentially deceiving. There are some codes for vertebral traction but spinal decompression is not pure traction, it's a "traction-based" treatment. Most centers offering spinal decompression therefore offer it as a cash based fee for service treatment.

The Bottom Line

Spinal decompression therapy has saved many people from spinal surgery. According to a recent study in the Journal of the American Medical Association, surgery is no more effective than non-invasive treatments, including chiropractic care, for patients with lumbar disc herniation causing sciatica.

It is extremely safe, FDA cleared, affordable, and very effective for many conditions such as back, neck, arm, and leg pain.

Identifying Spinal Stenosis Symptoms and Treatment

To be able to come up into an accurate diagnosis can be difficult. This is because spinal stenosis symptoms are often linked to other medical conditions. Leg pain or sciatic nerve pain is probably the most common symptom of lumbar stenosis of the spine. Added to that are lower back pain, leg numbness and tingling and limits in walking.

Taking a rest usually helps ease leg pain from either condition but someone who has spinal stenosis sitting down for 3 to 5 minutes will actually relieve the pain. Patients with vascular claudication, they actually have to refrain from walking to be able to relieve the pain that they are experiencing.

In general, the spinal stenosis symptoms progress over the course of several years, becoming acute stenosis usually. People with the said condition feel that leg pain worsens the longer period of time they are walking or standing. Bending forward or sitting down is the most common way to be able to ease leg pain and other symptoms that may occur. The recurring of the pain and discomfort often resumes when the sufferer resumes an upright position.

The sensation in the leg, e.g. numbness and tingling, may come with some spinal stenosis pain and also comes with weakness of the muscles in some other situations. A person who is leaning over the handle of a shopping cart, for example, to be able to make short stumble steps is a sign that the person has spinal stenosis and enduring the symptoms.

A dynamic effect on the compressed nerves is felt by the person with stenosis of the spine. Symptoms often occur when bearing weight on the affected area, and no symptoms whatsoever when a relief of the pain is made. Physical exams and test may not show a medical problem or weaknesses in the motor due to the changing state of the nerves. In order to study the effects of spinal loading on the upright body position, different scanning methods were performed.

Back Brace And Support - Rigid And Corset Back Brace Options

When it comes to weighing back brace and support options, there are two primary categories to consider. Bracing the back is useful in promoting healing of fractures and spinal fusions following an operation. This is because any motion in the lower spine can set back healing progress, delaying healing and causing unnecessary pain. The two basic types of back bracing products are rigid braces and elastic or corset bracing supports. Understanding how each type of bracing can be beneficial to the spine and general back health is important in determining whether or not a specific bracing support to the back is right for a certain need.

There are different types of rigid bracing products, including Thoracolumbar Sacral Orthosis, also known as TLSO, and Boston Overlap. Both are form-fitting back bracing and support options made from plastic. These bracing materials have to be fitted properly in order to benefit the spine. When properly fitted, they limit spinal motion by approximately 50 percent. The most common uses for rigid bracing involve healing broken bones and fractures in the back because limiting the range of motion can improve healing time. The downside is that these rigid plastic bracing supports can be heavy, uncomfortable and hot for many patients who wear them.

Corset back brace and support options are softer than rigid bracing materials, but still sturdy and effective at limiting motion of the back. They are often recommended to limit the motion of the spine following injury or lumbar fusion surgery. The bracing prevents forward-bending, strengthening the back while preventing further injury from occurring. Corset braces can vary in height depending on how much stability is required. They are also effective in preventing lifting injuries in jobs and industries where employees lift heavy objects on a regular basis. Such bracing of the back can aid in promoting the right type of lifting, which prevents unnecessary injury.

Choosing the right back bracing and support devices is absolutely necessary in benefiting from their use. The wrong back brace can cause more harm than benefit, which is why working with a trained physician is essential in choosing a back support device. Using a soft brace when a rigid bracing is necessary, or forcing the use of a rigid brace when a soft bracing is adequate, can both present problems. A trained physician can aid in choosing the right back brace for an injury or to prevent injury, especially when it comes to diagnosing a back injury and prescribing the right treatment accordingly.

Back Pain - Are School Bags Wrecking Our Children's Spines?

As children's spines are growing and developing, it is vitally important to prevent stress and dysfunction as a result of poorly designed schoolbags. Incorrectly carrying a school bag can interrupt the natural curve of the spine resulting in strain of the shoulders and neck, headaches, back pain, hip and leg pain.

The high number of adolescents reporting regular episodes of back, neck and shoulder pain are of concern worldwide. Findings from recent Australian research are just as disturbing:

• South Australian studies into the spinal health of more than 2500 school students found about half of them repeatedly reported recent episodes of spinal pain.

• Victorian studies found that one in three school students suffered significant back or neck pain, often thought to be caused by carrying heavy schoolbags (almost half of the students carried bags weighing more than 10% of their body weight).

• Poor posture when carrying a backpack is one of the intrinsic risk factors for spinal problems and it is magnified if students repeatedly carry a heavy load, carry it poorly or for too long at a time.

• Providing them with a good back pack is crucial but educating them on how to use it appropriately is just as vital.

In recent years there has been a marked increase in the numbers of students presenting to us with back pain and the issue of carrying a suitable backpack emerges, once again. Personally, I believe that educational institutions should be increasing the use of CD's, DVD's and e-books. However, until this becomes the norm we need to address the issues of carrying heavy books and equipment to and from school in such a way that minimises the risks of long term damage.

School is for learning - not for the beginnings of spinal damage!!!

Damage is caused by:

• A school bag that weighs more than 10% of the child's weight

• Carrying the bag over one shoulder

• Holding the bag in one hand by it's strap

• An incorrectly packed backpack

• An incorrectly fitted backpack

• Carrying too many bags and instruments to school

Our children will be attending school for many years - the last thing we want to do is to take away the very opportunities that we give them by limiting their career prospects with health issues.

There is a limit to how much weight can be carried in a backpack. Research shows that, where possible, backpack weights should be less than 10% of body weight. This equates to around:

3.9 kgs for 12-13 year olds 4.3 kgs for 14-15 year olds 4.8 kgs for 16-17 year olds

Research in Victoria found that an amazing 46% of children carry bags in excess of this recommendation whilst 12% carry up to 20% of their body weight.

Tips to prevent back pain from carrying a back pack:

• Plan ahead. Don't let kids carry lots of equipment at the same time, like sports gear, musical instruments or art materials.

• Consider more than looks when choosing a school bag. An ill-fitting backpack can cause back pain, muscle strain, or nerve impingement.

• Make sure the backpack is sturdy and appropriately sized; packs have varying back lengths and widths so they do not slip around during movement.

• Look for backpacks with wide, padded shoulder straps which ergonomically contour to the child's body, additional waist or chest straps will help keep the load close to the body and help maintain proper balance. The bag should never be wider than chest width and the backpack should not be any lower than the hollow of the lower back.

• Encourage your child to use both shoulder straps and never sling the backpack over one shoulder.

• The proper maximum weight for loaded backpacks should not exceed 10% of the child's body weight. A good school backpack should:

• Be appropriately sized for the child. It should neither extend past their shoulders when sitting down with it, nor be wider than their chest.

• Be comparatively lightweight. Fully packed it shouldn't weigh more than 10% of the child's body weight (that's the lean body weight, so it's even less for overweight children).

• Be sturdy and reasonably water-resistant (or have a rain cover). The material should be firm to prevent sagging. The base should be abrasive-resistant and/or reinforced.

• Have a moulded frame and/or an adjustable hip or waist strap, so most of the weight rests on the hips and pelvis, not on the shoulders and spine. The waist/hip belt is particularly important to secure the load when walking, running or cycling.

• Have adjustable, broad, padded shoulder straps that help distribute the weight evenly and don't dig into the wearer.

• Have a padded or quilted back for comfortable wear.

• Have compression straps at the sides to draw the load together and bring it close to the child's back. They'll also help stabilise the contents of a partially filled pack.

• Have a sternum (chest) strap to help stabilise the load and prevent the straps slipping off the shoulders. It should sit about 10 cm down from the Adam's apple. (Look for a detachable strap if you're not sure your child will wear it.)

• Have several pockets to help with even weight distribution and organisation inside. A drink bottle holder on the side keeps potential spillages outside the pack. Using it properly

• Backpacks are designed to carry a load safely - symmetrical, stable and close to the spine - but not if they're worn casually slung over just one shoulder.

• If necessary, show your child how to put the backpack on properly: lift it up by the loop with both hands and bent knees, facing the straps and pushing up with the legs. Place one strap over the shoulder, then the other, or put it on the edge of a desk and loop both arms through together.

• A backpack should be worn so the waist strap (or hip belt) sits firmly where intended.

• Shoulder straps should be adjusted so the child doesn't have to lean forward and the base of the pack rests on their hips, not on the bum, as many like to wear it.

• Before your child heads off to school, make sure they've packed their backpack properly. Items shouldn't be able to move around; the heaviest ones should be packed closest to their back to reduce stress on the spine, lighter items away from the spine.

• Encourage them to repack their bag daily, only take what they need that day and make use of lockers at school, if available.

How To Treat Paracentral Disc Herniation And Get Back To A Normal Life

To understand a paracentral disc herniation, one needs to know a little bit about the structure of a disc. There are two general structures associated with a disc, which includes the nucleus pulposus and the annulus fibrosus. The nucleus pulposus is in the center of the disc, which contains a gelatinous center that acts as a weight-bearing fluid along the vertical axis and acts as a pivot point to allow some movement around the trunk of your body. The annulus fibrosus forms a bag around the nucleus pulposus and is mostly made of multiple concentric layers of collagen (a protein). The annulus fibrosus functions to contain the gel of the nucleus pulposus under a wide range of pressures. Where the disc meets the spinal cord there is a thecal sac. This thecal sac is another form of tough connective tissue that surrounds the spinal cord. If you have a tear in the annulus fibrosus, the nucleus fluids may protrude and put pressure on the thecal sac. This is a common problem and may occur from improper lifting of heavy objects, accidental trauma and aging.

You will need to set up an appointment with your healthcare provider to determine if you have a paracentral herniated disc. Discus your family history and let your doctor know what kind of pain you are experiencing as well as severity. Your doctor will give a physical exam and possibly take X-rays to determine any structural abnormalities that may be present. One of the things doctors look for is to determine what pain you are experiencing. Are you experiencing a nerve pinch? In this case, the annulus fibrosus is torn and the fluid from the nucleus pulposus is causing the annulus to bulge, which in turn presses against nerves of the spinal cord. This is known as nerve root pain that is also known as sciatica when you have a lumbar herniated disc. On the other hand you may be experiencing disc pain also known as axial pain as there are no nerves involved.

Paracental herniated discs may generate a pinched nerve in the lower back. A pinched nerve in the lower back can compress the sciatic nerve causing sciatica. A herniated disc may also cause spinal stenosis (a narrowing of the spinal canal), which may pinch nerves at that level. Common symptoms associated with a pinched nerve include pain, numbness, tingling sensation (needles and pins) or weakness of muscles associated with that nerve bundle. The pain may radiate down your back, legs and buttocks. Quite often the doctor can identify the nerve involved based on what part of your back, leg and buttock that is affected. How does one treat a pinched nerve? Rest and cold compresses work well. Braces are sometimes used for a short time to limit movement around the pinched nerve to prevent further damage and allow for healing. There are a number of pain/anti-inflammatory medications that can be used for example ibuprofen that can reduce swelling and decrease pain. Your healthcare provider may need to prescribe something stronger for serious pain. Physical therapy (exercise) is also necessary for stretching and strengthening muscles to relieve pressure on the pinched nerve. If these therapies do not work for you, surgery may become necessary particularly if you develop loss of bowel or bladder control, as this is a sign of more serious nerve damage. It may be necessary to remove part of a disc to stop the nerve compression. If this is done then you may require a spinal fusion to stabilize the spine. These are unusual situations and in most cases, patients recover from pinched nerves with home therapies without long-term symptoms.

Axial pain is generally not related to a disease state and is the most common type of low back pain. A number of structures can cause axial or mechanical pain and is difficult to identify which structures are responsible. Axial pain gets worse with certain activities such as sitting for long periods of time, exercise (sports) and gets better with rest. This type of disc pain may become worse with the presence of a degenerated disc, joint problems, muscle damage, ligament or tendon damage. Axial pain problems are generally localized and don't radiate down your legs, feet or buttocks. It is generally not necessary to identify the particular structures involved, as this will resolve itself in a short amount of time. Treatment for axial back pain can be done at home. You will want to rest for a few days and make use of cold/hot compresses in alternating fashion. Physical therapy involving strengthening and stretching of the muscles is next when it is comfortable for you to do so. It is a good idea to take an over-the-counter pain reliever/anti-inflammatory as well. If you axial pain continues for more than 6 to 8 weeks, it is a good idea to see your healthcare provider again for additional testing to determine other therapies that will work for you. Generally, axial disc pain goes away within a few weeks with simple home treatment. The ideal situation is to avoid axial pain all together. A healthy lifestyle is paramount. Maintain a healthy weight, exercise (strengthen your back muscles and keep them in balance), eat properly and get plenty of rest.

On June 30, 2010, a research study was published in the Journal of Arthritis and Rheumatism revealing a possible role of the immune system and back pain associated with herniated discs. When the annulus tears/ruptures, the fluid in the center comes in contact with the blood system. This gelatinous fluid of the disc has never been exposed to the immune system (the internal part of the disc contains no blood vessels). Since the white blood cells have not seen this fluid before, they see it as foreign and attack it to get rid of it generating inflammation. This causes a local nerve root and other tissues to become inflamed, damaged and compressed. The molecule that activates the inflammatory reaction has been identified as interleukin-17 (IL-17), which is a chemical messenger molecule produced by a particular white blood cell. This particular subpopulation of white blood cells are known to be involved in autoimmune responses such as asthma and arthritis. If scientists can find a way to block the production of IL-17 by this particular subpopulation of cells, autoimmunity along the spinal column and hence inflammation can be brought to a halt. This should allow the herniated disc to go about normal healing without having to contend with chronic inflammation and pain. This will work for both acute and chronic inflammation and pain.

Depending on the symptoms of a paracentral herniated disc, there are a number of ways to deal with the situation. Most patients respond well to conservative treatments without the requirement of surgery. Make use of chiropractors, physical therapists, rest, hot/cold compresses and home exercise. Make sure to maintain a healthy lifestyle by eating properly to maintain a proper weight. Perhaps in the near future researchers will have a drug that will prevent excessive inflammation and pain that will allow for faster healing without discomfort with an IL-17 blocker.

Now that we know more about cellular pathways and the workings of the genome, medical advances are growing at an increasing rate. It's a good idea to keep yourself well informed by reading as many of the medical websites as you can. Make sure you bring this information to your next doctor's visit.

How to Get Rid of Back Pain Without Medication

Though back pain is a wide spread problem, in most cases it can be cured without any medication. We should follow the course of nature in order to cure it. Here is how it can be done:

1. Regular Exercise

Regular stretching and aerobic exercises help the back muscles to remain both strong and flexible. They make them more resistant to sprains and strains. A strong spine recovers faster from the injury than a stiff and weak spine.

Low-impact aerobic exercises such as swimming, walking and jogging provide the right amount of oxygen to tone up the muscles and keep them healthy.

2. Maintain right posture during sleep

Our spine forms a gentle curve in its natural position. We should always sleep on a medium firm mattress to maintain the natural spinal curve. An excessively soft mattress does not provide the right support and lets the spine form an unhealthy and painful curve. An unduly stiff mattress, on the other hand, may keep the spine straight like a reed. In both cases, the person may wake up with pain in the back.

Moreover, you should try to sleep on your back to provide it more support. If you are accustomed to sleep on your side, you should keep a pillow between your knees to provide the right posture to your spine.

3. Take rest

Back pain can make the life unbearable, but most often its cause is a simple strain on the muscles of the back. So the best course is to take some rest from the kind of work that has caused the strain. Rest heals and strengthens the week and injured muscles. It should, however, be noted that excessive rest leads to the weakening of the muscles. Normally two days' rest should suffice to energize them.

4. Massage

Massage relaxes the taut muscles and reduces the stress on them. It speeds up the blood circulation which brings in more oxygen and sends feel-good signals to the brain.

Common cases of back pain that occur due to sprains and strain in muscles by lifting heavy things or sudden twists and turns in the back can be cured by these simple methods. If the pain does not go away within two or three days, you must consult your doctor.

How Cervical Fusion Will Relieve You of More Than Just Neck Pain and Referred Pain?

Cervical fusion, a surgery of the upper spine, has been shown to relieve more than just neck pain and referred pain. A study published in The Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery in August 2009 revealed that two years after undergoing cervical fusion, patients reported a lessening of severity and a decrease in the number of headaches suffered. Cervical fusion is fusing one vertebra to another in the neck, the top seven bones of the spine. This procedure involves merging the two bones by inserting a bone graft or an intervertebral spacer where the injured disc used to be, where new bone grows around the insert. The term fusion, using heat to melt two elements and then "fuse" them, is not applied to cervical fusion.

Herniated Disc

A herniated disc is the primary reason that a cervical fusion is recommended by an orthopedic surgeon. Vertebrae have a pad in between each bone called a disc to cushion the movement of the spine. The disc could be compared to a doughnut filled with jelly. As the disc wears out from age or is injured by force or constant misuse, the inner portion of the disc, the nucleus pulposus, pushes to the outer ring, called the annulus fibrosus. While some people may never feel it, a herniated cervical disc can cause localized pain or pain shooting down the arm. Before a cervical fusion can take place, the damaged disc must be removed, and this is called a discectomy.

Headache Study Results

The study that examined patients who had headaches in addition to neck pain and dysfunction had two purposes. First, to determine the prevalence of headaches in people with cervical radiculopathy (shooting pain in the arm) and myleopathy (spinal cord dysfunction), and second, to determine the effectiveness' of anterior cervical surgery (surgery from the front of the neck) in relieving headache symptoms associated with the cervical disease. The study did not include patients with migraine headaches and only included people who were suffering from type of spinal cord disease.

At the start of the study, of just over 1000 patients, of whom 51.6% were male, 86% reported that they were suffering from headaches, with 31% of them mild and 52% of them severe. Two years after the surgery, of the 800 patients who reported back, nearly 35% said they had no headaches, 46% said they had mild headaches, with just 18% reporting severe headaches. The lead author of the study, Joseph Riina, MD, of Orthopedics Indianapolis stated that anterior cervical fusion is not a cure for all headaches, but that if a patient is suffering from neck pain and dysfunction and severe headache as a result of it, that this type of surgery may be appropriate.

Cervical Fusion Recovery

As with any surgery, it is the patient's decision to undergo this type of fusion. A qualified surgeon will use the advanced technology and the health care team will work to assure the best recovery. The patient's attitude and following of the rehabilitation guidelines established will also play a part in the success of the fusion operation.

Comparing Massage Chairs: Inada Sogno Vs Inada Yume

Inada has introduced two very innovative and technologically advanced massage chairs over the last 3 years. The Inada Sogno was introduced in 2008 and the Inada Yume came to market in 2011.

Inada has always been the pioneer of massage chair features and function. These two models are no exception. Both chairs boast functionality I have never seen before in the massage chair industry.

So, what are the differences between these two hugely successful massage chair models from Inada? Take a look:

Inada Sogno Massage Chair

1. Price (as of the writing of this article): $6999.


2. Full arm airbag compression massage (arms, forearms, wrists, and hands).


3. Thigh airbag compression massage for the Ilio-Tibial Bands (ITB).


4. Dreamwave technology in the seat (airbags that move the pelvis from side to side, up and down). Great feature for passively soothing acute low back pain. This feature is significant enough to Inada that they gave the chair the full name of the Inada Sogno Dreamwave.


5. Cervical Traction Device (headpiece that offers airbag massage to the neck muscles and to the trapezia muscles on top of the shoulders).


6. Vertical track that extends the rollers journey all the way down into the buttocks region.


7. Design award winner (very contemporary design).


8. Very large chair - ships in two boxes with a combined weight of 324 lbs.


9. Airbags in the lower back that alternately inflate to induce rotation into the low back.


10. Foot and calf airbag massage.


11. Heating mechanism in the seat of the chair.


12. Standard 3-year full comprehensive on-site warranty.


13. Typically includes white glove delivery, setup, and debris removal.


14. Colors include: black, dark brown, chocolate, red, creme, and black leather.

Inada Yume Massage Chair

1. Price (as of the writing of this article): $5499.


2. Rotary Rocking motion of the chair (mimics a rocking chair) - about 5-7 rocks per minute.


3. Thera-Elliptical-Kneading of the calf muscles (either side of each calf well actually moves up and down in a kneading motion in concert with airbag compression to introduce a very intense and therapeutic calf massage).


4. LED lighting on the outside of each calf well. Although you can't see this when you are sitting in your chair in a lighted room, when you turn off all the lights and the room you are in is dark, you will see the reflection of the changing LED light colors subtly illuminate your room.


5. Much smaller size than the Inada Sogno - ships in one box and weighs 271 lbs.


6. Neck airbags that are designed to stretch the neck by alternately inflating under one side of the skull and on the shoulder of the same side, simultaneously. Not as sophisticated as the Sogno but very effective, nonetheless.


7. No arm, foot, or thigh airbags like in the Inada Sogno.


8. Alternately-inflating airbag massage in the seat, inducing rotation motion into the low back (the Inada Sogno inflates low back airbags, whereas the Inada Yume inflates seat airbags.. both to get the same desired effect, which is rotation of the low back).


9. No foot massage.


10. No heating mechanism.


11. Typically includes regular door-to-door delivery.


12. Standard Inada 3-year full comprehensive on-site delivery.


13. Colors include: red, creme, dark brown, and black colors.

In a nutshell, the primary differences between the Inada Sogno and Inada Yume are:

1. Many more airbags in the Inada Sogno.


2. Price ($1500 difference).


3. The Inada Yume is quite a bit smaller than the Inada Sogno.


4. A few more color options in the Inada Sogno.


5. Inada Sogno has a cervical traction device (headpiece), Dreamwave technology in the seat, full arm airbags, thigh airbags, foot and calf airbag massage.


6. Inada Yume has a neck stretching airbag massage, airbag massage in the seat, NO arm airbag massage, ONLY calf massage (no foot), rotary rocking motion, thera-elliptical-kneading in the calves.


7. The Inada Sogno has a very subtle heating mechanism located at the back of the seat. The Inada Yume does not have a heating mechanism.

I hope this comparison assists you in making your massage chair buying decision.

Factors That Trigger the Development of Cervical Spondylosis

The progressive degeneration of the intervertebral discs found in between the neck bones is medically termed as Cervical Spondylosis. This condition is a normal process of old age and usually affects people at the age of 60 and above. It is usually seen in men more than women. In some rare cases, the disease can already be observed as early as the age of 20. The starting point of the disease is usually neck pain. Other symptoms do not appear until it is diagnosed by a physician. There are also a lot of contributing factors which can lead to the early appearance of the disease.

One of the many factors that can trigger the appearance of Cervical Spondylosis is family history. If there were several members of your family who suffered from the disease, it is most likely that you will also experience it by the time you become old. Tracing your family tree will probably give you an idea of what diseases your ancestors suffered from in the past. When you already have a prior knowledge to your ancestral medical history, it will be a lot easier to track down what kinds of diseases are passed down to you. You can now prepare beforehand if you have already known these medical conditions.

How you were trained to sit or even walk can also be a factor for developing Cervical Spondylosis. Posture can be an issue. If you walk with slouched shoulders and you often stooped back, the habit can be troublesome. Correcting this habit will be hard to do in the future as you have been used to the position. You are at risk of developing spine mishaps that can signal the pain from occurring. Sitting in a slouched position can also be a problem. These issues regarding posture can eventually cause future problems.

Any occupation that involves prolonged sitting and a lot of strenuous neck movements are other factors contributing to your chance of having Cervical Spondylosis. The constant joint movement brought about by the nature of overhead work can cause too much strain to the neck and signals the pain felt in the affected area.

Injuries, particularly those acquired in a car accident are also one of the risk factors associated with Cervical Spondylosis. The neck can become more vulnerable as the accident can damage the neck joints. People who suffered from neck injuries in the past are more prone to developing Cervical Spondylosis compared to others who have not had any injuries at all.

How to Manage the Pain of Scoliosis

If you have a diagnosis of scoliosis and are experiencing back pain, you need to see your health care practitioner. Pain is not typically a related symptom so any other underlying cause must be ruled out. However, if your pain has been diagnosed as part of your scoliosis, you may be seeking ways to manage it. In this article we will take a closer look at the condition of scoliosis, along with some pain management techniques.

What is Scoliosis?

Scoliosis is a spinal deformity where a normally straight spine begins to curve. It usually starts with the rapid development that takes place during puberty and, for some unknown reason, it affects more females. Starting the adolescent years with this condition can have a lot of consequences, one of which may be pain.

Adolescence is the transition time from childhood to adulthood. It is the period where children start to value the importance of appearance and attraction to the opposite sex. They begin to become conscious of how they look and what their peers think about them. Being diagnosed with scoliosis can be a traumatic event in the life of a budding teen.

Youth affected with scoliosis not only suffer from bad posture but also from a poor body image. Even a mild case can tend to make the teen appear different. The curving of the spine with its resultant posture deformity can't be covered up by clothing or hairstyles. Looking unlike one's peers at this age can lead to low self-esteem. Having low esteem in dealing with other people can lead to emotional trauma and mental stress and have a lifetime effect.

How Can It Cause Pain?

In addition to postural deformity, the abnormal curvature of the spine can cause limited movements. It decreases back flexibility and strength. The misalignment of the spine also produces increased pressure on the surrounding muscles and tissues which may lead to pain. This pain can be not only annoying but debilitating.

As you age, and if the scoliosis is untreated, the intensity of pain may increase. It is best to treat scoliosis immediately to prevent any pain from worsening and to avoid further complications.

Dealing with pain that may be intense at times may be the worst part of having scoliosis. Pain can hinder you from effectively performing the activities of daily living. It is important to find ways to manage this discomfort early so you can continue to enjoy life. Here are some ideas that may help you manage your pain.

Natural Pain Relief Remedies

Natural, non-surgical remedies that may be effective in dealing with the pain of scoliosis are breathing techniques, physical therapy, chiropractic care, relaxation techniques, back stretches and exercises.

These options are effective in relieving the symptoms associated with scoliosis but they are not intended to treat the scoliosis itself.

Medications

If your pain does not respond to natural pain relief measures, taking pain medications may be the answer. Your doctor may recommend over-the-counter medications for mild pain or prescription drugs for more severe pain. Always work with your doctor in finding the right medication to relieve your pain.

Use of a Back Brace

If you have scoliosis, a back brace becomes necessary when the degree of curvature gets to about 20 - 25 degrees. The internal organs are already affected in these cases. The increased spinal curve can cause pain and also lead to other problems like breathing, bowel and bladder difficulties.

A back brace aids in correcting abnormal body posture by keeping your head up straight and your shoulders back. Forcing your body in this position helps in aligning your spine and maintaining an upright position. Initially, the brace may cause discomfort as you are retraining your muscles and straightening your spine. However, in time, the brace can help to improve your blood perfusion and make your back pain disappear.

Surgery

This procedure is often advised for severe curvatures or older people. A spinal surgery aids in repairing the abnormal curvature of the spine. It also provides stability that can decrease or eliminate the pain that is felt.

Enduring the discomfort of scoliosis is not always easy. Finding pain relief may take some time but you do have pain relief options to choose from. So, if one doesn't work, there is the hope that something else may.

The various interventions and treatment regimens should help to not only alleviate your physical pain but also lessen the emotional pain that you may have.

Mortality Rate for Spinal Surgeries Based on Many Factors

There are countless conditions and injuries that may affect the back and necessitate spinal surgery. Statistics show that the mortality rates for spinal surgery were highest for those who had a primary diagnosis of fracture and kyphosis. Kyphosis happens when the curves of the spine are either slow to develop or have structural deformity, often giving the appearance of a "hunchback". This condition can worsen over time and cause back pain, muscle fatigue and stiffness in the back, thus creating a need for spinal surgery.

The mortality rates for spinal surgery were the lowest for patients who had scoliosis and degenerative conditions and spondylolisthesis. The most common causes of death during spinal surgery include respiratory/pulmonary cardiac, sepsis, and stroke. Inoperative blood loss is also a main cause of spinal surgery mortality, and approximately 79% of these deaths occur before the patient is discharged from the hospital. The chance of death increases with age, and elderly people are more prone to spinal injuries.

In fact, research shows that the number of spinal cord injuries is on the rise among senior citizens. This is partly because of the changes in bone quality that occur with aging and the increasing prevalence of cervical spinal stenosis that comes with older age. Elderly people are also at greater risk for motor vehicle accidents per miles driven, and these accidents often cause damage to the spine, neck and brain. These factors all contribute to the large number of spine surgeries that are done on a yearly basis throughout the United States.

In addition to taking these factors into consideration, spine surgeons must also deal with external influences and pressures. In recent years, insurance companies throughout the country have tightened their guidelines on spine coverage. This has resulted in more denied claims and makes it difficult for spine surgeons to help patients without first doing extensive peer reviews and speaking with other medical representatives and arbitrators.

Depending on the geographic location, spine surgeons must also deal with differences in spine care and surgery procedures. While some surgeons are quick to adopt new procedures, there are others who prefer their tried-and-true methods. Regardless, there will always be conditions and injuries that require the immediate diagnosis and treatment of a skilled spine doctor in order for the patient to have a chance at a full recovery. To learn more about spine conditions and how you can choose the best surgeon for your surgery, talk to a Southern California spine surgeon at Chapman Neurosurgical Spine Institute (CNIS).

Treating Your Herniated Disc Pain Without Invasive Surgery

Patients suffering from chronic back pain due to a herniated disc usually try a succession of recommended and prescribed remedies to help ease their comfort. Because of major advancements in medical technology, now those suffering from this common problem no longer have to live with that pain.

Patients diagnosed with a herniated disc may have pain in the back, leg, neck or arm, or a weakness of the lower extremity muscles. When a disc herniation occurs, the cushion that sits between the spinal vertebrae is pushed outside its normal position. A herniated disc would not be a problem if it weren't for the spinal nerves that are very close to the edge of these spinal discs.

Causes of Herniated Discs

A herniated disc may occur suddenly in an event such as a fall or an accident, or may occur gradually with repetitive straining of the spine. However, disc material degenerates naturally as you age, and the ligaments that hold it in place begin to weaken. As this degeneration progresses, a relatively minor strain or twisting movement can cause a disc to rupture.

Certain individuals may be more vulnerable to disc problems, and as a result may suffer herniated discs in several places along the spine. Research has shown that a predisposition for herniated discs may exist in families, with several members affected.

Symptoms

Symptoms vary greatly depending on the position of the herniated disc and the size of the herniation. If the herniated disc is not pressing on a nerve, the result may be a low backache or no pain at all. If it is pressing on a nerve, there may be pain, numbness, or weakness in the area of the body to which the nerve travels. Typically, a herniated disc is preceded by an episode of low back pain or a long history of intermittent episodes of low back pain.

Herniated discs are most common in the lumbar spine--the part of your backbone between the bottom of your ribs and your hips. Symptoms include:

· Severe low back pain

· Pain radiating to the buttocks, legs, and feet

· Pain made worse with coughing, straining, or laughing

· Tingling or numbness in legs or feet

· Muscle weakness or atrophy in later stages

· Problems with bowel and bladder

· Muscle spasm

Herniated cervical discs are far less common than lumbar disc herniation because there is substantially less pressure placed across this part of the spine. Symptoms of a herniated cervical disc include:

· Neck pain, especially in the back and sides

· Deep pain near or over the shoulder blades on the affected side

· Pain radiating to the shoulder, upper arm, forearm, and rarely the hand, fingers or chest

· Pain made worse with coughing, straining, or laughing

· Increased pain when bending the neck or turning head to the side

· Spasm of the neck muscles

· Arm muscle weakness

Treatment for Herniated Discs

Fortunately, the majority of herniated discs do not require surgery. However, a very small percentage of people with herniated, degenerated discs may experience symptomatic or severe and incapacitating pain that significantly affects their daily life.

The initial treatment for a herniated disc is usually conservative and nonsurgical. Your doctor may prescribe bed rest, or advise you to maintain a low, painless activity level for a few days to several weeks. This helps the spinal nerve inflammation to decrease.

Traditional conservative treatments include ice, ultrasound, electrical stimulation, cortisone injections, anti-inflammatory medications and physical therapy. While these may deliver some relief, it will usually be only temporary.

But the major concern with these traditional treatments is that they cannot fix or heal a herniated disc as they do not address the actual cause of the problem.

Individuals who undergo a series of open back surgeries or fusion surgeries for herniated disc pain experience a lower level of pain relief. Up to 30% of those who undergo surgery have unsatisfactory results, as stated in a Practice Guideline developed for the Aerospace Medical Association by the American Society of Aerospace Medicine Specialists. Herniated disc open or fusion surgery is an involved procedure whose high failure rate can produce more pain than relief.

New Technology Speeds Return to Active Lifestyle

With advances in science and technology, there are alternatives to open or fusion spine surgeries. A proven alternative for helping to alleviate the pain of a herniated disc is The Bonati Procedures(sm).

The Bonati Procedures are advanced spine surgeries developed and perfected by The Bonati Institute®. The procedures employ the smallest incision possible to correct problems of the lumbar, cervical and thoracic spine with patented instrumentation and methods. The Bonati Procedures are performed sequentially as outpatient surgeries with the patient under local anesthesia and alert and able to communicate with the surgeon throughout the procedure. The result of this approach is far less trauma to the muscles and tissues, minimal blood loss and faster recovery. The Bonati Procedures are performed only at The Bonati Institute.

Consider all options

Before you agree to undergo any back surgery, consider getting a second opinion from a qualified spine specialist.

Stomach and Lower Back Pain - Is There A Connection?

Can stomach pain and back pain be related? The answer is it depends. Recently a friend contacted me about having both stomach and back pain. Because of my own experience he was asking for my advice. The first bit of advice I gave him was that stomach and back pain could be serious and to call his doctor immediately.

Obviously I am no doctor and I avoid trying to diagnosis someone's medical problem. However when someone is complaining of pain in both the stomach and back chances are it is more than just a strained back muscle. Usually what is happening is that the stomach problem is radiating to the back making then person believe he has a problem in both areas when it's probably originated in the stomach or pelvic area.

So what are some of the causes of stomach pain? Well they can be different for men and women. Women are more prone to pain in both areas. Pregnancy and or menstruation are two causes of stomach pain in women. Pelvic inflammatory disease is another. Men also have some medical conditions that are unique to them. One of them is an inflammation of the prostate called Acute Prostatitis. This can cause pain in the stomach and lower back. Seminal Vesiculitis is another condition related to the prostate. This condition is the inflammation and degeneration of the seminal vesicles.

Common to both men and women are the following:

Kidney Stones: Boy if you have had them you know how painful they can be and how that pain spreads through your lower back.

Acute Pancreatitis: Your pancreas is a large gland located behind the stomach. It's job is to secrete digestive enzymes into the small intestine. When the pancreas becomes inflamed this is known as Pancreatitis.

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm: Is a swelling of the Abdominal Aorta. Most of the time this occurs at or below the kidneys so you can see how this would affect the back and or stomach.

All these conditions are very serious and require urgent medical care. In my friend's case he had Acute Prostatitis and is receiving treatment which has eased his back pain by treating the prostrate. So what my friend thought was pain caused by muscle pull after a weekend of tennis turned out to be much more serious. Fortunately he did not delay in seeing his doctor. The lesson here is sometimes what you think is a back pain can be an infection in the pelvic area that radiates to the back. There obviously is a connection between stomach pain and back pain, but it is one that must not be ignored. So if you are having discomfort in both the back and stomach area chances are it is pretty serious and needs a doctor's attention as soon as possible.

Is Your Mattress the Problem? Choose the Best Mattress For Back Pain

If you are troubled by back pain, undoubtedly you have considered your mattress. You may have wondered if it could be contributing to the problem, or perhaps even causing the back pain in the first place. Indeed, your mattress might well be the culprit, especially if it has seen better days.

Choosing the Best Mattress for Back Pain

In this case, you will be asking yourself, "What is the best mattress for back pain"? It is far from being a simple decision. A visit to your local furniture or specialty bed store store will introduce you to an almost dizzying array of mattresses from various manufacturers, each one professing to be the best and the healthiest.

Expect to do some research before you decide which mattress is the right one to eliminate your back pain. It is always a good idea to start with a basic understanding of the back and the types of mattresses that you can choose among.

How A Mattress Can Cause Back Problems

Do you awake in the morning feeling pain and stiffness in your spine? In this case, you may be sleeping on a mattress that doesn't permit your muscles to relax as they should.

When your muscles are tensed throughout the night, you will sleep with your spine twisted into an undesirable position. While this may not cause any immediate damage, over a period of time you could begin to experience serious back problems and discomfort.

Some Mattress Myths

One popular belief concerns the hardness of the mattress. Many people believe that a hard mattress is preferable to prevent or treat back problems. Some even go so far as to sleep on the floor.

This is a mistake. Hard surfaces are not ideal. They can hurt your joints, and since there is no "give", a hard mattress or other surface can force your spinal column into an injurious position.

According to findings from a scientific study, the best mattresses are not firm ones; instead they range between medium and firm.

How to Choose the Right Mattress For You

Begin by ignoring the many healthy claims that manufacturers use when marketing their mattresses. These claims are plentiful. Very few are substantiated in any way other than reflecting the seller's desire to increase the bottom line. Disregard contentions that a mattress provides any specific health or orthopedic benefit.

Next, spend an hour or so trying out many different types of mattresses. Personnel in bed stores should have no problem with you doing this; they will probably even encourage it.

You will find that some mattresses contain springs and other are made from memory foam. Memory foam adjusts readily to your body's shape and usually feels quite comfortable. However, traditional mattresses containing springs are equally good. Only by trying both can you decide which feels better for you.

The bad news is that the best mattress to address your back pain may not be the mattress that feels the most comfortable. You will have to decide which is more important: comfort in the immediate future or relief from back pain in the more distant future. If your back pain is minor, you can lean more towards comfort. It if it more severe, it is perhaps more important for you to sacrifice a degree of comfort in terms of long term back health.

Caring for your Mattress

Mattresses can be a costly investment. It makes sense to do what you can to extend the item's life span. Turning and flipping your mattress twice a year will lengthen the amount of time you can use it.

Avoid Waterbeds

Regardless of what you may have heard, or of what the manufacturer may claim, waterbeds are not conducive to back health. Many of them will create back pain, not reduce it. If you suffer from back pain, you are wise to avoid one of these beds.

Scoliosis Surgery - Are Some Patients Predisposed To Spinal Fusion?

"In view of the high rate of complications, the limited gains to be derived from spinal fusion (for idiopathic scoliosis) should be assessed and clearly explained to patients before the procedure is undertaken."

~Results of surgical treatment of adults with idiopathic scoliosis.
J Bone Joint Surg Am 1987 Jun;69(5):667-75
Sponseller PD, Cohen MS, Nachemson AL, Hall JE, Wohl ME.

Are some scoliosis patients simply doomed to "needing" scoliosis surgery? Are they genetically pre-programmed "scoliosis time bombs" that are just waiting until adolescences to go off and no one can diffuse them in time? According to Mark Spoonamore, MD, an orthopedic surgeon in the Keck School of Medicine of USC, "Less than 10 percent of scoliosis patients have surgery to correct severe curvatures". This statistic that doesn't include a large number of scoliosis patients whose scoliosis spine curvatures reach the mythical 40 degree scoliosis surgery threshold and chose not to under go scoliosis surgery "correction", so the TRUE number of patients whose spine curvatures reach severe levels is most likely well above 10% of all idiopathic cases.

Recent breakthroughs in the field of genetic testing for scoliosis (Scoliscore) have revealed a treasure trove of new information about the origins of idiopathic scoliosis and provides tremendous insight into the age old condition. According to the Scoliscore data, only 1% of ALL scoliosis patients diagnosed as idiopathic are considered "genetically high risk" for "needing" spinal fusion surgery; Which leads one to ask, If only 1% of idiopathic scoliosis patients are "genetically high risk" with a pre-disposition for developing severe scoliosis (requiring surgery), then why does at least 10 times that number of idiopathic scoliosis case under go scoliosis surgery. This is a question that should be asked by every patient that has been told they need surgery?

The answer to the question above actually isn't as difficult or complex as you might think once one understands that idiopathic scoliosis is a multi-factoral condition that is caused by both genetic pre-disposition and environmental influences. So basically...

Genetics + Environmental Influences = Idiopathic Scoliosis

So which factor (genetics or environment) is more important? Well, that depends on the individual case. A scoliosis patient with a "high genetic risk factor" may only require a very low amount of environmental influence to develop a severe scoliosis spine curve, where as a patient with a "low genetic risk factor" would require a very large amount of environmental influence before they developed a severe scoliosis spine curve. However, given that 99% of ALL idiopathic scoliosis spine cases are NOT genetically high risk for developing a severe scoliosis spine curvature, it becomes obvious that controlling the environmental influences is the true "key" to "severe scoliosis prevention".

A Definitive Guide To Laser Spine Surgery

Laser spine surgery was created as part of the latest development in surgery all over the globe to make any type of operative procedure as minimally invasive as achievable by creating techniques that would require making only a tiny incision, through which an endoscope is passed and serious tissues are burned away with a laser. In comparison to big procedures, these procedures lead to less injury and minimal blood loss for the patient. As a result, minimally-invasive spinal operations are becoming more and more efficient with the many modern techniques experiencing a remarkable surge. Laser back surgery is technically termed as Minimally Invasive or Laser Endoscopic or simply Laser Spine Surgery.

When compared with the use of a scalpel, laser spine surgery only has to make a 翹 to 職 inch cut which gives it quite an advantage though many types of this operative treatment that are identical in therapeutic objective to many regular major spine operations. Laser spine surgery, unlike major spine surgery, is not conducted under typical anesthesia. Rather, it is conducted while the patient is under what is called "twilight sleep" or conscious sedation, wherein the patient could not experience any pain but is awake enough to respond to surgeon's questions and say if relief is felt. The anesthesia for conscious sedation is provided via a percutaneous injection.

Instead of being cut in major invasive surgeries, laser spine surgery spreads the muscles and soft tissues. Blood loss can also be avoided as any cut blood vessels are promptly cauterized. These aspects lead to a faster recovery time for the patient. In just 2 weeks, the patient can return to work and live without limitations after 6 weeks.

Obese patients can also be operated on quite simply and only a few would need postoperative pain medicines. Some doctors may even conduct these operations in an outpatient setting. Based upon the spine institute and pain management center and its services, and the training of its surgeons, not all hospitals would be prepared to conduct certain types of endoscopic spinal surgeries. With this in mind, it would be best to first find out which hospitals has the finest facilities and competent specialists that could work with you if ever you plan on undergoing endoscopic spine surgery. A good spine center that provides a broad range of laser spine surgery treatments is MicroSpine.

Their physicians can perform these endoscopic procedures outlined below...

• Foraminotomy - excision of the top of the intervertebral foramen;


• Foraminoplasty - in cases foramenal stenosis, this procedure increases the size of the intervertebral foramen;


• Laminotomy- a part of the lamina of the vertebral arch is excised during the operation to relieve the damaged spinal cord or nerve root;


• Discectomy;


• Vertebroplasty;


• Facetectomy - the articular facet of a vertebra is excised in this procedure;


• Facet Joint Surgery;


• Corpectomy - extraction of a vertebral body;


• Spinal Fusion Alternatives;


• Laminoforaminoplasty - As a way to prevent deeper impingement on nerves, bone is extracted to modify the lamina and foramen;


• Endoscopic Hardware Excision;


• Thoracic Discectomy;


• Ligament Injury Surgery;


• Sacroiliac Joint Surgery;

Nowadays, the study and improvement on different types of laser spine surgery carries on and these cited above are just some of them.

A Stability Ball Chair Means No More Back Ache

Tired of your office chair? Finding yourself fatigued after sitting for an extended time period? Back ache? If you answered yes, a stability ball chair is possibly the right chair for you.

It seems that many people today who sit in a traditional office chair grumble about having lower back pain. Let's admit it, standard office chairs are cramped and hard on the back. The challenge with these chairs is that they force someone to sit a particular way according to the design of the chair. Unfortunately, how the chair is shaped isn't the way your body or one's spine is shaped. This is the reason why a stability ball chair, also called an exercise ball chair is perhaps suited for you.

An alternate solution to a standard office chair, a stability ball chair is interesting and unique, and provides the back plenty of support while you sit. Used properly, this chair can release you from those back problems connected to sitting for lengthy periods of time.

This chair combines an everyday exercise ball with a synthetic plastic casing making the ball secure when you sit. Because of active sitting your spinal column adjusts to its correct posture (active sitting implies that your body consistently shifts so that you can continue to sit in a suitable stance on top of the ball).

While its true that using an exercise ball as a stability ball chair is an excellent way to maintain the correct posture when sitting, there are some things you will need to keep in mind when thinking about using your chair:

As soon as your ball is filled to its proper volume, a person's feet ought to rest firmly on the ground forming a 90 degree angle at the knees while the arms relax comfortably in front of you.

In addition to your sitting position, you will recognize that the ball is filled to the correct size as you should be able to sit down fully erect on the ball. If you sag into the ball then it needs additional air. Should you sit too high and find your feet off of the ground then the ball must be deflated.

Moreover, a stability ball chair keeps your muscle groups firm. Because of active sitting, the back and stomach muscles are constantly being worked out. It's a workout without having to visit the gym! And sitting on top of the ball is usually enjoyable. Many find themselves amused by being able to bounce on the ball all through an extended and tedious day at work.

No matter all the benefits a stability ball chair has, you should consult a physician before you purchase one However, rest assured this chair is the chair for you if you're bored with your conventional office chair.

Simple Steps You Can Take To Relieve Upper Back Pain

If you are suffering from upper back pain you may want to consider these simple steps in order to obtain some relief. Please note that before embarking on any exercise routine however, you should discuss it with your health professional first to ensure that you don't do yourself any further damage.

Stretching is very important, it is something we tend to do involuntarily but it is a good idea to get into a routine where we consciously stretch the spine to strengthen the back. Try doing this several times a day, when you first wake up, after sitting down for any length of time and before going to bed. It also has a positive effect on stress levels, quite often when we are tense and worried we tend to carry it on our upper back so getting into this routine will help alleviate our muscles getting locked up. If you want to take this even further, yoga and Pilates are disciplines that are based on stretching the muscles of the body thereby strengthening the back.

Bad posture is a major factor in aggravating back pain, slouching when seated will put a strain on your upper back and neck muscles. If you are female and well endowed make sure the bra you are wearing is the right size and is giving you the support you need so that the strain is not put on your back causing you to slump forward. Try to keep your weight within your recommended BMI as carrying around those extra pounds is hard work and will affect your posture. Standing and sitting straight will make you look slimmer and will also strengthen back muscles. Make sure you wear comfortable shoes that allow you to walk properly. There are many types of footwear on the market these days that are designed to enhance natural posture and to correct any walking imbalance.

As well as our waking hours, we need to think about protecting our back and neck when we are asleep. It is important to ensure that the mattress we sleep on is supportive because if it slumps in the middle we will too! Many people swear by memory foam, it feels soft and comfortable yet gives the required support to the spine. Pillows are important too, memory foam pillows suit some people although personally my neck felt worse after trying one. Whichever pillow you choose make sure that you go for a good quality item that will support your neck comfortably. Your sleeping position should ideally be either on your back or your side, lying on your front gives absolutely no support to your spine and twists your head to one side so it is best to avoid this.

Making these small changes can have a positive impact on our spinal health so it is well worth incorporating them into our daily lives.

Avoid Back Pain From Playing The Guitar

Playing an instrument is a rewarding pastime for some and a way of life for others. Whatever your level of investment in your instrument, you may find that you experience pain after practicing, especially if you practice for a long period of time.

Whether sitting or standing, right-handed or left, you are using one side of your body differently than the other when playing guitar. The shoulder, hand and forearm on the side that you use to navigate the fretboard are working more than those on your strumming side. If you stand when playing, this imbalance is exacerbated by the strap. Right-handed players support the weight of their guitar on the left side, which is also the fretting side, and vice versa for left-handed players. The extra work these muscles do causes them to become tense and shortened after prolonged use. Muscles that are tight become weak, as they are not flexible enough to perform work without possible injury. This can cause the muscles of the other side to attempt to compensate for them throughout your day, leading to tightness on that side as well.

The following tips will help to prevent neck, shoulder and back pain caused by overuse when playing the guitar.

Warming Up

You may think that a warmup for guitar playing means finger exercises on the fretboard. These are important, both for playing quality and for your finger and forearm muscles. However, the rest of your body should be warmed up, too. The neck, back, shoulders and hips should be stretched before your practice session. This ensures that the muscles are flexible and have received fresh nutrients and oxygen from increased blood flow to perform work with.

Proper Posture

One of the most important postural tips to keep in mind when playing guitar is to keep your shoulders low and you spine straight. Many people, especially new players, will hunch over the instrument sitting down and tense their shoulders as they concentrate on their playing. Body awareness is one of your best protections against poor posture when playing guitar. Whether you're sitting or standing, make every effort not to hunch over the guitar. For new players or those used to looking at the fretboard, this may take some practice. Begin relying on the dots that indicate fret numbers on the side of your guitar's neck, or make your own indicators with colorful tape. Keep your neck as upright as possible. Make sure your shoulders are not creeping up toward your head.

If standing, play around with the length of your guitar strap. Some people prefer to keep the guitar low, while others like it very high. Ergonomically, the best position is that which sets the weight of the guitar's body at your center of gravity, which is around navel level for men and hip level for women. If the guitar is lower, your shoulder strain will increase. If it is higher, you may find yourself raising your shoulders. Check out the DuoStrap, designed to allow the weight of your guitar to be shared by both shoulders: http://www.gruvgear.com/duostrap-signature.

Seating position for standard guitars involves resting the "waist" of the guitar (the indent between the upper and lower half of the body) on the thigh of your strumming side with your legs in an open stance. Resist the temptation to cross your legs; this causes your body to twist, increasing stress on your hip muscles, spine and lower back muscles. Your strumming arm should rest lightly on the lower half of the guitar. Classical guitarists support the weight of the guitar on the thigh of the fretting side with the neck pointing more upward. Classical or standard, your shoulders should be low and loose.

Those who would like to learn more about proper body mechanics, both when playing and not, should refer to the Alexander Technique. See their website at http://www.alexandertechnique.com/ for more information.

Breaks

Some people can grab their guitars and stay put for hours, but your initial warmup won't keep your muscles loose for that long. After half an hour of play, take a break and move around. If you play sitting, stand up and allow your hip muscles to elongate. If you play standing, give your legs a break and take a seat. Repeat your warmup stretches. Taking a two-minute break every half hour or so will allow your muscles to refresh themselves.

Playing guitar shouldn't cause you pain. Paying attention to posture, warming up and taking breaks will help to prevent back pain during your practice sessions.

Teeter Hang Ups - Does It Really Help Back Pain? Read Our Comprehensive Review Here!

Teeter Hang Ups EP-560 inversion table

What is Inversion Therapy?

Inversion therapy is "a form of extreme traction aided by gravity," according to the study into the treatment by Newcastle University in 1995, which showed that using an inversion table decreased the need for surgery from 78% in the test group to just 23% in the group which used the Hang Up. Worldwide, the therapy is used by athletes, soldiers and even by the workforce at Volvo in Sweden. Volvo told their employees they must choose between doing thirty minutes a day of inversion therapy, on company time, or pay for a large part of their own health insurance. In the first year of the new safety-conscious workplace, hours lost to the company through back problems in their workers fell by 55%.

How long has inversion therapy been around?

When asked how long inversion therapy had been around, engineer and inventor Roger Teeter explained "inversion for relief of back pain is well documented back to 400 B.C. by Hippocrates... Every successful society has back pain because they sit too much, have weak muscles and lots of stress." With this in mind, Roger Teeter, who suffered from excruciating back pain himself, developed The Teeter Hang Ups EP-560 inversion table in the 1980s. It is a product for people with chronic back problems, like sciatica, and, although it has existed for a long time, unless you need it you won't know about it. It uses "inversion therapy" (hanging inverted while strapped into the apparatus) to relieve pressure on the lumbar vertebrae.

How do I use the inversion table?

To use the Teeter Hang-Ups EP-560 inversion table you don't have to hang completely upside-down, as zero pressure is reached by inverting the body to an angle of just 60 簞 - zero pressure is where the weight is taken off your joints and the ligaments and muscles that hold them together. The manufacturers advise using an "acclimation program" at first to get used to the new sensation of being inverted. The advice is to invert to 30 - 45 degrees, once or twice a day, for between 1 and 3 minutes. Alternate this position with being horizontal. (0 簞) This is known as "Intermittent Inversion"

What's in the box when I purchase the inversion table?

The EPS-560 is constructed from heavy-duty tubular steel, padded in all the friction hotspots, and weighs in at around 67lbs (just a touch over 30kg.) This is not a piece of kit to move around when you are experiencing back trouble, but with a friend's help you should manage to set the apparatus up in around 20 - 30 minutes, or a little longer if you have any trouble with the instructions and need to look at the DVD included with your purchase. If it resembles anything you might be familiar with, it may be a rather large child-seat like you would find in a restaurant. The difference is that the body of the apparatus is flat like a bed, rather than seat-shaped. It has webbing and padding to make lying on it comfortable. When you are on board, your ankles are strapped into the padded foot bars, and the table can be rotated through as many degrees as you are comfortable with, up to 180簞 (totally inverted.)

Are there any downsides to owning a Teeter Hang Ups Inversion Table?

One thing to bear in mind when buying this is the footprint it needs in your home - around 60" x 28.75" x 58.5". It will certainly take up a lot of floor space in your home, but does fold down quite quickly to move around the house.

Also, some people find that there is insufficient padding to prevent rubbing when you are inverted, but Teeter have their own advice for this:

- Make sure you wear socks with lace-up shoes - the material will provide added cushion and support for the ankles.

- Fit the ankle clamps snug enough so you're secure, but don't clamp them super tight- this will restrict blood flow and cause discomfort.

- Rotate the rear ankle clamps slightly downward before you secure your ankles. As you invert, they will rotate to cup the back of your heels.

- Adjust the foot platform so that there is minimal space between the top of your foot and the platform. The less your body 'shifts' when you invert, the better.

- Try oscillation and intermittent inversion first (rocking back and forth or short inversion sessions down then up). You ankles will get a brief rest at each rotation and you'll experience the added benefit of the "pumping action" for your joints!

So it seems that the company does in fact listen to its customers, and isn't afraid to deal with criticism. They are confident that there is sufficient padding if the device is used sensibly, following their advice.

Does it work?

Most people who use it think so, many saying they have had their first night's proper sleep for many years, and many others able to return to work after using the Teeter Hang Up. One buyer of a Teeter Hang Up in the UK commented: "No more being woken up every two or three hours with pain and spending precious sleep time searching for a comfortable position. I can't go as far to say that my back is cured, but the relief is instant and lasts for hours. More than enough to get me through the night and through a day's work too. I've not had to take a pain killer since either.

Where can I buy the Teeter Hang Ups Inversion Table?

Teeter Hang Ups even offer a 30-day home trial for just 瞿14.95. After this time you can return the product if you do not find it helps with relief of back pain, improved joint health, improved tone in your abs and increased flexibility. If you are happy with the product, you can go ahead and make a full purchase. Other products from the Teeter range of inversion tables are available through online shops, but the EPS-560 can only be bought from the manufacturer.

How much will I pay?

If you are paying in one single payment, the price is $299.85, but if you have taken advantage of the 30-day home trial, the balance will be paid in three payments of $99.95 each, making the total cost $314.80.

The verdict

The Teeter Hang-Ups Inversion Table is a radical idea - not many people are accustomed to inversion as a treatment or an exercise regime, but if you can get past the initial shock to the system of hanging upside down (or at least partially upside-down) this is a good piece of kit. It has a strong research base and over 30 years of proven success. For the money, this is a very useful addition to your exercise regime, as long as you follow the manufacturer's instructions to the letter, and accept a rather large piece of fitness equipment in your home. Give your back and joints a treat - take the pressure off by hanging around!

How to Avoid Back Surgery and Save Yourself A Lot of Pain

If you have prolonged moderate to severe back pain, chances are at some point a doctor is going to suggest back surgery. Most likely this suggestion will come after pain med prescriptions and epidural blocks have lost their efficiency and you are at your rope's end.

There are many things you can do to help your back heal and avoid going under the knife. Of course everyone is different and each cause of back pain is unique, so unfortunately a "one cure fits all" remedy is simply not available.

Let's get going. First and foremost is diet and exercise. Yeah yeah I am sure you are as sick as the rest of us of hearing you've got to work out and eat right. But maybe you are hearing it so much because it is actually important? Just a thought.

The preventative effects exercise alone can have on your back and its overall health are significant. Ever heard of exercises that strengthen your core? They are not referring to your spirit or soul. They are referring to that group of muscles located in and around your midsection (your waist and lower back). They are called obliques, abdominals, flexors, extensors and glutes. Keep these babies toned and loose and you will not only avoid a plethora of potential back problems later in life, but you will find your posture is one even 18th century Aristocrats would be proud of.

Keeping these muscles strong keeps weight bearing forces off the spine...which can prevent such nasties as bulging or herniated discs, degenerative disc disease, and facet joint deterioration. All of which equal pain with a capital "P." Regarding diet, answer this question: What is most likely to wear down your spine-80 or more lbs of beer belly fat (men) or no extra weight at all? Does the answer really need to be stated?

What does need stating is the effect smoking can have on the back. As if you needed one more reason to not smoke, the arteries which carry precious nutrient-rich blood to your back-including to all the delicate tissue around your spin and the discs and muscles that cushion and support it-tend to harden and restrict with age. Smoking speeds up this process possibly making it so you have an 80-year old back when you are only 60 or 65. Lack of nutrients to your back is an open door invitation for degenerative diseases such as arthritis to take hold.

But let's say you've already spent most your life neglecting your core muscles coupled with a wicked mixture of bad eating habits. Now you have constant moderate to severe back pain. Is it too late? Is your back destined to be sliced and diced? No, not necessarily.

Again, this has to be said with caution because sometimes surgery may indeed be necessary. But we'll assume you are one of the many lucky ones who can find relief without a surgical knife. How do you know if you are one of the lucky ones? One of the following tactics will work.

To begin with, start exercising your core muscles! Trouble is by now you may be in so much pain that you can't actually exercise. Now what?

Work with a physical therapist. Start slow, with stretches and mild moves. Believe it or not, little by little your muscles will strengthen. However, that might not be enough. You may have damage that needs repaired in addition to strengthening your core. Fortunately the body is its own best healer!A chiropractor, especially one that specializes in spinal decompression, may be exactly what you need. Today's decompression tables are guided by super smart computers that control the force and angle of the pull on the spine thus tricking the body's natural tendency to resist. The result is extra room between the vertebrae into which bulging or herniated discs can distract and heal.

Lastly, use a decompression spinal brace for your toughest times. Such a brace can give your back the break (no pun intended) it needs just long enough to get you to your next round of core-strengthening exercises.

The Best Home Remedies for Cervical Spondylosis

Most people in their old age suffer from a degenerative condition known as Cervical Spondylosis. This disease is characterized by the wear and tear which affects the bones, joints and discs of the neck. This condition usually occurs more in men rather than women. In recent studies, the disease had also been associated with sedentary lifestyle.

Cervical Spondylosis is often caused by a combination of factors including old age, genetics, sleeping positions and again, sedentary lifestyle. What happens during the development of spondylosis is that the vertebral discs thicken in response to preventing the spinal bones from fusion. Bone spurs, or most commonly known as osteocytes are responsible for this development. When the discs increase in size, the risk for developing slipped discs and spinal nerve compression that are responsible for neck pains also increases. Recurring neck pains are the primary indication of a developing Cervical Spondylosis.

Upon diagnosis of Cervical Spondylosis, patients have several treatment options to stop the condition from developing further. One of these treatment options is home remedies that had been found to be effective by actual patients who have been using these in their own homes.

Garlic is one of the best remedy that is readily available in your home. You can opt to buy capsulated garlic for your consumption of at least two capsules a day. For a more natural approach, you can eat 2-3 garlic cloves in the morning. Garlic oil can also relieve neck pain. You can make your own garlic oil preparation by frying ten (10) garlic cloves in 60 grams of oil. Let the garlic oil cool and apply it in the affected area of the neck. A warm bath is recommended after the oil application. You can repeat this remedy for fifteen (15) consecutive days.

Lemon juice has also been approved by doctors as one of the effective homeopathic remedies for Cervical Spondylosis. A quick relief can be achieved by consuming lemon juice with a sprinkle of rock salt, thrice daily. Eating Chebulic myrobalan can also help alleviate the condition. It is advisable that the fruit should be consumed after meals.

Massaging the neck can also be effective for ease of Cervical Spondylosis. Using aromatic massage oil containing lavender is a great idea. Massage the affected area with the oil until you can no longer feel the strain in the neck. Remember not to bend or lean forward for most of the time to avoid the pain from occurring again.

So, You Have a Herniated Disc

Today I'm writing about herniated discs. Maybe you've heard the term before, but perhaps you don't know exactly what it means. What exactly are the symptoms of a herniated disc anyway?

What is the difference between a herniated disc and a bulging disc?

Both conditions start the same way. The discs in your spine are composed of a thick outer layer and a soft and gel-like inner layer. A bulging disc happens when there is pressure placed on the disc and the inner layer starts to cause the outer layer to bulge outward. A herniated disc occurs when the inner layer not only bulges outward, but actually pushes through the thick outer layer.

A herniated disc is much more serious than a bulging disc because the outer layer of the disc has actually ruptured. Not only is this not easily reversible, but the inner layer of your disc contains an acidic substance that can irritate surrounding tissues and cause added pain.

What causes a herniated disc?

There are quite a few things that could cause a disc to herniate. Sometimes a sudden or intense injury could result in disc herniation like a fall or other traumatic injury. But more often than not it is the result of continued or repeated stress over a period of time.

Maybe you haven't been in the habit of lifting heavy objects properly (remember that old saying: lift from the knees with ease?). Maybe you've just had bad posture for too many years without doing anything about it. Or maybe could be something else entirely. Constant pressure applied over a long period of time can eventually cause your discs to herniate.

What are the symptoms of a herniated disc?

A disc herniation may or may not put pressure on the nerves of the spine. If it does not, then you may only experience a back ache or perhaps no symptoms at all.

But more often than not, the herniation will put pressure on the spinal nerves. When this happens things like Sciatica become quite common. Sciatica is the result of pressure on the Sciatic nerve, which runs from the lower back down to the legs and feet. You can tell you're suffering from sciatica if you have any sort of leg, buttocks, or lower back pain. The pain could be dull or quite intense. Sometimes you may not experience pain at all, but a numbness or tingling feeling instead like if your leg was asleep.

In extreme cases the pain may become so intense that muscle weakness occurs in one or both legs. This is the result of a large amount of pressure and inflammation around your nerves.

A herniated disc is nothing to mess around with. If you're suffering from a herniated disc, then be sure to seek advice from a qualified medical professional. In most cases surgical treatment isn't necessary, but if non-surgical approaches do not help to improve your situation, surgery may be required to help you regain an acceptable quality of living.

Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery Offers Several Benefits

For those who struggle with back problems the pain can be unbearable. The thought of going to a doctor about you pain can leave you with mixed feelings as well. For most the expectation is to receive some sort of pain medication or adjustment that will allow them to go on with their daily lives. For others the expectation is the dreaded back procedure. Today's technology, however, has allowed for the use of the minimally invasive spine surgery on many patients that would have had to have the standard procedure years ago. There are many benefits associated with this cutting edge approach.

To determine whether minimally invasive spine surgery is adequate for your needs you should see a specialist. He will be able to correctly diagnose the problem and tell you whether or not you can have such a surgery. If you need spinal fusion, repair of disk or deformity correction you will probably be considered an ideal candidate for this procedure. The most common use is spinal fusion, so most patients who are in need of this type of procedure would be ideal candidates.

Minimally invasive spine surgery has the wonderful benefit of shorter recovery time. What does that mean for you? Well, traditionally this procedure would require patients to stay in the hospital for upwards of a week and then expect at least a year's worth of recovery time. It's enough pain and suffering to make most potential patients run for the hills at the thought of undergoing such a procedure. Instead of spending a week in a hospital bed and a year doing rehab and recovering just to get back to some semblance of normal you can shave months off of your recovery time. Now you'll spend a few days and a few months getting your life back in order.

Another great benefit, smaller scars. There is no lie here, you will have scars. It's just a simple fact of having any type of procedure done. With the minimally invasive spine surgery, however, instead of a huge scar you will have a few smaller ones. Before you dismiss the idea of this being a positive it really is. The old way resulted in a scar that could run as long as the length of your back. This way you'll have just a couple of smaller scars right where the endoscope and instruments were inserted.

These benefits are what make minimally invasive spine surgery so great. You don't have to spend a year getting your life back and there are no huge scars to show you had any surgery performed. There is no need to continue suffering with back pain. Visit with your doctor or see a specialist to see if this type of procedure can benefit you in any way. Shorter hospital stays, shorter recovery time, and less scaring are all good reasons to stop the pain and start living your life again.

What are the Spinal Orthopedic Procedures?

Orthopedic surgeons frequently perform spinal orthopedic procedures to relieve symptoms caused by spinal nerve compression. Nerves that exit the spinal column between the vertebrae can be compressed by an intervetebral disc, by the vertebrae themselves or by bony spurs that have grown next to the nerve. When the nerves are compressed, you have sensory symptoms--pain, numbness or tingling--and/or motor symptoms--weakness or loss of bladder or bowel control. Spinal orthopedic procedures relieve the pressure on the spinal nerve.

Surgical Procedures

Until recently, the only spinal orthopedic procedures available were surgical, and surgery is still frequently performed. The lumbar and cervical spine (low back and neck) are most prone to injury, and most surgeries are performed in those areas. The thoracic spine is more stable, but surgery may be necessary to correct deformities such as scoliosis or kyphosis. Laminectomy/discectomy and spinal fusion are the most common spinal orthopedic procedures performed.

Laminectomy/discectomy involves removing the portions of the disc and bony parts of the vertebrae that are compressing the nerve. The surgeon removes extraneous material and enlarges the opening to relieve the pressure on the nerve. If the disc is badly damaged, it may be replaced with an artificial one.

If the vertebrae are unstable or misaligned and they could re-compress the nerve, the spine is fused, using bone grafts from other parts of the body or rods and hardware. Spinal fusion immobilizes that portion of the spine so that it cannot compress or injure the nerve.

These procedures are usually done as open surgical procedures. The surgeon may approach the spine from the front of your body (anterior procedure) through your abdomen, or he may operate on the back of your body (posterior procedure). In either case, an incision is made in the skin and the muscles and surrounding tissue must be cut in order to reach the spine. That means time in the hospital and a lengthy recuperation afterward, plus the risk of infection or complication.

Minimally Invasive Procedures

In some instances, new minimally invasive spinal orthopedic procedures can be done instead of open surgery. Instead of cutting through the muscle and exposing the spine, a trained surgeon can use a thin, flexible tube with a microscope camera attached to it. This requires only a tiny incision in the back, and the muscle fibers are pushed aside instead of being cut. The surgeon can run laser or surgical instruments down the tube and remove excess tissue to open up the area around the nerve.

Minimally invasive procedures, when they can be used, are safer and sometimes more effective than traditional spinal orthopedic procedures. You don't have to be admitted to the hospital and are usually back to most of your normal activities within a few days.

Minimally invasive procedures are a wonderful option for some people, but they are not alw

Find Out If Artificial Disc Replacement is Right For You

If you are plagued with chronic back pain and have been told that spinal fusion surgery is your only answer then you will be excited to discover that there is an alternative. People who have bad knees or hips are able to benefit from modern advances in science that give them artificial replacements. Up until recently this was not an option for spinal discs. Today, artificial disc replacement is available and is being implemented with very successful results. This is so exciting because it eliminates the need for spinal fusion surgery. The goal is to help the patient reduce their pain level and be able to increase their mobility and activities.

Spinal discs could be described as cushions as they act to absorb the shock of the vertebrae from all the impact involved in just simple daily activities. They help the spinal column with its flexibility and range of motion. The inner part of a spinal disc is a jelly like consistency surrounded by the outer material that is strong and fibrous. As we age these discs wear out resulting in mild to severe lower back pain. An artificial disc replacement actually replaces the worn out disc with one that will not wear out or be affected by the other discs. The end result is what everyone wants, no more pain.

In your consideration of artificial disc replacement you need to verify that you have spent at least six months utilizing treatments such as medication, back braces and physical therapy without successful results. Only after exhausting these options should you consider surgery. If you choose surgery you'll be placed on your back and an incision will be made near your belly button. Your damaged disc will be removed and the new replacement inserted. Your doctor will determine the amount of time you'll need to stay in the hospital and will keep you comfortable with medications for pain and nausea.

After your recovery time you will be virtually free from the pain that plagued you. You'll be able to participate in activities that you couldn't before your surgery. With your artificial disc replacement you will have no fear that the discs next to the one replaced will have any accelerated degeneration. That is one of the great benefits of this type of treatment over spinal fusion. You'll feel like a new person!

Lose the Lower Back Pain - Lumbar and Sacroiliac Rebalancing With Somatic Movement Education

Lower back problems and sciatica are some of the most common reasons people suffer with chronic pain and have to limit their lifestyles and even stay off work. If you are one of those for whom this is a recurring nightmare, and you spend fortunes on painkillers and expensive trips to the chiropractor, wouldn't you like to discover how to take control of this condition yourself and stay pain free while saving all that money you spend patching up the symptoms and not getting to the root cause? A system of gentle exercises called Somatic Movement Education might be just what you need...

There are many causes of lumbar and sacroiliac pain. Trauma is perhaps the most obvious, when an old injury that hasn't healed keeps niggling and flaring up. Lack of exercise is of course another very common factor these days, as is bad posture and sensory motor amnesia, which is when habitual patterns of neuromuscular tension cause imbalances by pulling the muscles out of alignment, thus affecting the spinal column.

Not so obvious maybe are the problems that legs of a slightly uneven length can cause, and it's surprising how many people have this condition without knowing it. Also these days a common factor can be the time we spend driving, which causes a lot of people to complain of sacroiliac pain from a rotated right ilium from constantly pressing the accelerator pedal. Hypermobility of the affected joints can also cause problems.

Dehydration is also a big factor in all joint problems, as cartilage and discs find it hard to repair themselves without enough water available in the body. So, drink two to three litres of good clean water every day and give your body the chance to repair itself! Somatic Movement also enables better function between the joints, which helps greatly in the body's efforts to hydrate that specific area.

So, how does Somatic Movement Education go about rebalancing the lower back?

Well, a system of very gentle and enjoyable exercises, performed with awareness and ease can effectively unlock the holding patterns in the muscles, releasing the spine and sacroiliac joints to function as they should, leaving you pain free. These simple exercises, once learned, are a gift for life allowing you to recognise problems and their causes, and self treat them at home for free!

The practice of Somatic Movement Education is cumulative, and if performed regularly, you will see very good results after about four days, and be clear of the holding patterns after about two weeks. If regular maintenance practice is continued, you should then keep the new mobility and be pain free for life!