Saturday, August 3, 2013

Lower Back Pain Relief Strategies for You


A typical disorder in the spine, lower back pain is not generally connected with an illness or a specific injury. Because the trigger just isn't definitive, there is also absolutely no definitive method of dealing with the disorder.

Luckily for individuals who are afflicted by a lower back ache, episodes of this problem do not frequently last long. Actually, most of episodes last from a few days to a couple weeks and rarely do they last more than 90 days. If they do, then you are suggested to consult a medical doctor given that pain might be a warning sign of a far more severe injury or disorder.

In most cases, certain pain management techniques enable you to achieve lumbar pain comfort. The treatment might vary from utilization of over the counter drugs to massage therapies as well as traditional remedies just like acupuncture and the like.

Listed here are a number of the popular techniques used for low back pain relief:

Natural Home Remedies

Home remedies for lower back ache relief are your very first line of treatment when you have problems with this dysfunction.

Non-prescription Medicine

You might take nonprescription back pain relief medications, including:

Aspirin
Ibuprofen
Acetaminophen

Cold/Hot Compress

In addition, you may even apply a cold or heat pack towards the agonizing area. Leave the compress on for 5 to 10 minutes at any given time. This low back pain relief treatment will be recommended if you have been suffering pain for the very first 24-48 hours.

Continual Motion

Continual movement is also recommended. A few therapists prescribe resting your back but this lower back pain relief technique is only responsive for 1 to 2 days. After that period has gone by and you still have problems with pain, restrain from relaxing your back as this might weaken your muscles, leading to a reduced recovery. Instead, continue on with your daily activities even though it's painful.

Nevertheless, do take steps in safeguarding your back from excessive strain while you perform these kinds of activities, and if feasible, avoid performing strenuous routines.

Exercise

On the list of actions that can offer you lumbar pain relief can be exercise. To control pain, you may do virtually any of the following:

Go walking short distances
Stretch and do flexibility routines
Use a stationary bike
Go swimming

Professional Treatment

Lower back pain relief from the healthcare community or even professional healthcare is a reasonably limited option. Since there is usually no abnormality or injury to treat, the amount of treatments is very low. Medical doctors frequently conduct a radiological examination or get X-rays of the person's back. This can be to ascertain if you will find any kind of abnormalities within the vertebrae - regardless of whether the bones aren't aligned correctly or bulging or ruptured disks (herniated).

Sometimes, surgery is suggested to treat these types of irregularities. But lower back ache relief and also recovery might take place even without surgery.

Spinal Anomalies, Low Back Pain


The bouts of pain may occur as the individual engages in their usual employment, household chores, gardening, or when they engage in sporting activities. At times even the slightest wrong movement, such as lifting, reaching, or twisting, may bring on a bout of pain.

There can be many, many reasons for low back pain; however, we will discuss a very important reason that has not been spoken of or even usually thought of in diagnosing this condition. These are called "congenital anomalies". A congenital anomaly is something we are born with, that is not within normal limits. An anomaly can be found in any area such as, bone, muscle, ligament, tissue or organ. Very often congenital anomalies can be an inherited trait. The anomaly we are primarily focused on is found in the lower spinal column and its relation to the pain it can cause.

The lumbar area of the spine is comprised of 5 lumbar vertebrae. The 5th lumbar vertebra sits on the broad triangular bone called the "sacrum". On either side of the 5th lumbar and the sacrum are the 2 hipbones, called the"ilii". An anomaly can occur in any of the lumbar vertebrae, the sacrum, or the hipbones (ilii). There can even be one vertebrae missing, or an extra 6th lumbar vertebra, or even a half vertebra. More often anomalies or abnormalities are found in the facets of the vertebrae. The facets are the articulations that align the vertebrae with each other, keeping them fro shifting or sliding.

However, we will discuss another very prevalent anomaly that is found in the 5th lumbar vertebra. Consider this vertebra as one of a child's building blocks. On either side of the block (vertebra) are two fingerlike projections, called the "transverse processes". It is these transverse processes where the congenital anomalies occur. When an individual is born with enlarged transverse processes they will have a tendency to meet and rub against the hipbones (ilii). This can occur on either one or both sides. They can also enlarge even more over a period of years. After years of this occurrence, the transverse processes will cause a fusion with itself and the hipbone, creating a false joint, or joints. There will of course be no normal movement in these false joints.

A condition such as this can set up a myriad of circumstances, affecting the muscles, ligaments and tendons that cause a progression of symptoms and finally severe bouts of low back pain. Although the individual may not lose any motion of the low back, they may have some difficulty in bending forward or backward. After activities that require such prolonged movements, the individual may find some difficulty in getting out of bed, or getting up from a sitting position.

Should an individual find they are experiencing symptoms such as bouts of pain that are nagging, dull and vague in character, and they just can't seem put their finger on the exact spot where it is originating from, they should of course seek professional advice from their healthcare provider. The doctor will after a physical examination, take x-rays that will enable him/her to make a definitive diagnosis. After the diagnosis, they may recommend medications that will only help with some of the pain. Most individuals are already familiar with these over the counter medications OTC). Unfortunately, this condition is not correctable by conservative methods.

Once a definitive diagnosis is made, it will be up to the individual to create a plan to deal with the situation in an effort to prevent more invasive measures such as surgery. Read more on how to plan in the Health Hints below.

Health Hints***

  • The individual must be mindful of his/her lower back inadequacies at all times. This means that when they engage in some activity, such as, sports, gardening, or stressful household chores such as vacuuming, ironing, etc., they should gently stretch their back muscles. It will only take one or two minutes. If you golf, hold two or three clubs and gently swing them up to one shoulder following through to the other shoulder. If you bowl, throw a few balls down the alley slowly and gently. Do the same for any other sport following the protocol of that particular sport.

  • Before and after engaging in these sports or chores, you can apply a good analgesic gel.

  • Should you experience a sharp pain during golfing, bowling, etc., it would be advisable to stop any further participation in that activity.

  • If you do experience sharp pain after playing sports, the use of ice is advisable. An ice massage is excellent. This can be accomplished by keeping a few paper cups in the freezer filled with water and having them frozen, ready for such uses at all times. When ready to use, tear about a half-inch strip from around the top of the cup. As you massage the painful area in circular motions, keep tearing small strips from around the paper cup as the ice melts. This should be repeated 3 to 4 times daily, using the analgesic gel between the applications of the ice massage.

  • After 48 hours, if the pain persists, start using applications of heat. Apply the heat in the form of a heating pad for 20-30 minutes to the painful area 3 to 4 times daily. Using a moist heat pad is more beneficial as it allows an easier, deeper penetration. Again, apply the analgesic gel between the applications of the heat.

  • The above steps will help in the alleviation of the pain. However, the best way is prevention with the long-term outlook of preventing the onset of these painful episodes. To do this, you must start an exercise program that will strengthen, support and reinforce the entire low back structure. Before starting any exercise program you should discuss it with your healthcare provider. Once you have been cleared, you must find a program that you are comfortable with, and one you will stay with for the long haul.

  • The next step in choosing an exercise program is choosing one that will not aggravate your condition. It also needs to strengthen the abdominal and low back muscles, ligaments and tendons that are of key importance in supporting the lower back. For this you need a non-impact exercise program.

Whatever exercise program you start on, just make sure you do no harm. Be comfortable with it. Be able to find the time to do it. AND, stay with it for the long haul. You will feel better.

Right Side Lower Back Pain


Right side lower back pain which is also referred to as Sacro-Iliac pain is one of the most common forms of back problems. Combined with the fact that a few of spinal joints may tighten and the pelvis being out of balance can cause a tremendous amount of pain. There is a muscle in the lower back called the Quadratus Lumborum which runs from the base of the ribs right to the top of the pelvis area and this can develop trigger points, these in turn may refer the pain to the lower areas of a back. However, the main source of the pain comes from the Sacro-Iliac.

Pain usually develops between the Sacrum and the Pelvis in right side lower back pain. Because there is no disc to offer protection and a person strains their backs, this joint moves badly and causes the person to experience sharp pain across their backs. Muscles in the lower back help support the spine and therefore posture, they also provide strength and let a person lift things up and move around freely. Trigger points which are tight knotted muscle fibres defer pain away from the spine and the muscles around the spine tighten in the back when the spine is strained in any way.

Muscles located around buttocks also play a vital role in how the back works. They provide strength to both the lower back and to the thighs. It is important to understand which of these is causing the pain when suffering from back pain. However, the smaller muscles that attach each vertebra to another one also support all joint movement. If a person strains their spine in this area of their backs, it is these muscles that give sharp back pains and joint stiffness, but the pain is more localised so easier to detect much faster.

Due to the fact that the Sacro-Iliac joint has no disc it is more vulnerable to strain or damage. As the joint tightens muscles and ligament also tighten so the pain actually radiates up the back or even down into the buttocks. It is known that the cause of all back pain is by four main factors and these are joint movement, pelvic imbalance, tight muscles and weak muscles. It is more likely to be an imbalance within the pelvis which causes lower back pain.

Any lower back pain should be investigated to make sure there are no underlying root causes to the problem and any back pain should be treated to avoid chronic pain problems developing at a later date. If it is the Sacro-Iliac joint that has been strained the discomfort can be very severe but it is not a serious condition that needs specific treatment or invasive surgery. There is no risk of disc damage as there isn't a disc on this joint. Doctors recommend a couple of days rest as well as taking pain relief tablets which sufferers can buy over the counter. In some cases a doctor may prescribe stronger medication but will keep a close eye on the patients' progress as the medication should only be prescribed for short periods of time.

It is highly recommended that anyone suffering with lower back pain should keep as active as possible as quickly as possible. Two days rest is enough and with anti-inflammatory medication, a person should be able to move around without too much pain. Doctors and back specialists much prefer to avoid chemical-based drugs to treat such pain and recommend a course of therapeutic treatments instead. Right side lower back pain can be intense but with over the counter medication, a little rest, therapy in the form of visits to a chiropractor and a daily exercise routine are the best way of dealing with the condition.

Knowing the Causes of Lower Back Pain and How to Treat It Naturally and Safely


A prevalent difficulty for most, if not all, human beings is lower back pain. It can merely be a minute nuisance, such as in the instance of an acute lumbar pain, or a tremendous debilitating condition, such as a chronic pain, on daily life. Pain may be non-existent for some, while for others, it may be tremendous and excruciating, even with just quick motions.

A lot like headache, it is a normal and typical condition and there are many causes of lower back pain. Additionally, properly dealing with this condition is a must to be able to correct the cause and achieve pain relief.

Muscle Strain. One of the most typical pain causes is muscle strain. Overusing or overexerting your lower back muscles, ligaments, and joints during work or during exercise routines can result in pains. Similarly, incorrect posture during sitting, standing, lying down, or picking up items from the floor can also put a lot of strain on your back, causing the muscles, ligaments, and joints to become stiff.

Nerve Compressions.Some other popular causes of lower back pain is nerve compressions on the spinal cord, its nerve roots, and the sciatic nerve, to mention a few. Nerve impingements however, don't normally develop in humans, and specific spinal conditions, such as degenerative disc disease, spinal stenosis, herniated disc, bulging discs, injuries, tumors, bone spurs, and the like, are often the reasons of compressions.

Nerve Inflammation. Nerve inflammation and irritation can lead to lower back pain. In the instance of sciatica, patients often experience pain not only on the lower part of the back, but the buttocks, thighs, and knees as well. Some intense conditions, such as the Caude Equina Syndrome, may even endanger the function of the lower extremities, besides the chronic pain it causes.

It can become easier to attain great lower back health, simply by improving specific routines and regularly and suitably doing low back exercises. Naturally, beginning treatment early on is a great idea, so that you can quickly nip the issue in the bud. Aerobics, stability, balancing, strengthening, and stretching exercises are great exercises for back pain to help tone the back, as well as the other core muscles.

By regularly doing these exercises, not only will your core muscles be tougher, but they will be more stable and workable. For that reason, the risks of developing lower back pain can be reduced, since the core muscles can better bear the weight and movement of the spine and the body.

There's also physical therapy which is another fantastic alternative to various medications and surgery, seeing that it is safer and more helpful. Physical therapy, somewhat much like exercise routines, concentrates on fortifying certain muscles of the body through basic one or two step routines. For strengthening and improving mobility of hips and buttocks and legs, well-known PT routines, such as pelvic tilts and lower body isometrics, respectively, are performed.

Attaining complete pain relief becomes a lot easier by understanding the many causes of lower back pain and how specifically to deal with them. However, as a word of advice, just like everything else, never overdo these routines, since you may irritate your condition. Whether an orthopedic or physical therapist, you can understand more about lumbar pains by checking with specialists.

Lower Back Pain: An Overview


Lower back pain is an extremely common problem affecting as many as 90% of people sometime or the other in their lives. Almost 50% of these people have suffered from it more than once in their lifetime. These statistics clearly reflect that this is by no means a rare phenomenon.

Causes

Lower back pain is very often a symptom of some other disorder. It could be caused due to some injury having occurred to a muscle or a spinal bone. Organ abnormalities especially problems in the chest, abdomen or kidney can also be probable causes. Other common causes could include bad posture and the condition of the bones and joints.

Symptoms

A painful lower back is the main symptom of this disorder. This pain may be restricted to the lower area of the torso or it could extend and radiate through the leg.
Numbness or sudden weakness in the legs is another symptom of this ailment. This happens if some nerve supplying blood to the legs has been compressed.
Worsening of pain during long periods of inactivity.

Risks Factors

People suffering from osteoporosis are more susceptible to bone deterioration causing pain in the lower back.
A fall or any other such jarring accident can cause a minor breakage in the spine, which can cause excruciating pain.
Malignant tissues present in the spine.
Sudden lifting of heavy objects can lead to the jarring of your back causing classic symptoms of this condition.
Sitting or standing in an uncomfortable posture for a long time.

Lower back pain might be an increasingly common ailment but it is still a highly discomfiting one. All care should be taken to avoid any activity that puts your back at risk.

Treatment Options

Self-treatment: This is generally recommended by most doctors. Sleeping with a pillow under your knees can help alleviate the pain. Regular exercising can be a boon to people suffering from chronic lower back ache. These help in keeping the muscles limber thereby there is a lesser chance of their having a spasm.
Medication: Pain killers and anti-inflammatories such as ibuprofen are often prescribed to help reduce the pain and inflammation. Muscle relaxants are often given when muscle spasm is the cause for the pain.
Surgery: This is done very rarely and only in cases where there is a nerve being compressed which is causing the back ache. Surgeries are generally a success and can help in completely alleviating back ache.

IUDs and Lower Back Pain


Lower back pain is one of the less advertised possible side effect of IUDs, or intrauterine devices, yet women's health forums are full of accounts from women who have lower back pain that began only after the insertion of an IUD.

IUDs are small, flexible, T-shaped contraceptive devices inserted through the cervix into the uterus. They disrupt the flow of sperm and prevent eggs from implanting in the uterine wall. There are two types of IUDs: copper and hormonal. Copper is toxic to sperm. Hormonal IUDs work to thicken mucus around the cervix, preventing sperm from entering.

There are a number of possible causes of lower back pain associated with IUD use. The timing and duration of the pain can indicate the cause. Lower back pain that lasts anywhere from a few hours to a couple of weeks after insertion may simply be due to the introduction of a foreign object into your body. Your uterus may experience cramping, and this can cause cramping in the lower back.

A possible cause of prolonged lower back pain after the insertion of an IUD is a change in menstruation. Copper IUDs have been associated with heavier menstrual bleeding. During menstruation, the body releases high levels of prostaglandins, chemicals that make the uterus contract. This contraction enables it to shed its lining, which is what leaves the body during menstruation. Contractions are what cause abdominal and lower back cramping. Muscle spasms in the lower back can result in pain.

While hormonal IUDs can actually help to relieve painful menstrual symptoms like cramping, they can cause back pain in other ways. Levonorgestrel, the hormone released by some IUDs, has been linked to back and pelvic pain in 1-10% of users. More on the potential side effects and risks of hormonal IUDs can be found at http://www.netdoctor.co.uk/medicines/100001706.html.

Another possible long-term cause of lower back pain associated with IUD use is perforation of the uterus. This can occur during insertion if the medical professional performing the procedure makes a mistake. Along with failing to prevent pregnancy, an IUD in a perforated uterus can fall out of place. Misplaced IUDs can cause internal scarring or infection. Damage and inflammation of pelvic tissues can cause both pelvic and lower back pain.

One of the most popular concerns associated with IUD use is the increased risk of pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). This is caused by an infection that travels from the vagina to the cervix, and moves on to damage all of the female sex organs. IUDs do not cause PID, but they may help to spread it. PID is caused by sexually transmitted infections, including gonorrhea and chlamydia. During insertion, an IUD may help the infection travel into the uterus. Infection of the reproductive organs can cause lower back pain through proximity.

There are many reasons a woman may choose an IUD over other contraceptive methods. Hormonal IUDs only need to be replaced every 5 years, and copper IUDs last for 10 years. They are hassle-free, discreet, and more effective than other forms of contraception. They are not perfect, however. They can dislodge, affect your period and cause health problems.

If you are at risk of sexually transmitted disease, IUDs should not be used. If menstrual periods are often heavy, then copper IUDs should not be used. Make sure you have a careful and experienced medical professional insert an IUD. If your back pain lasts longer than two weeks after insertion, or if it is severe, then you should see a doctor. An ultrasound or physical exam can determine if the IUD is still in place. Keep track of your symptoms and educate yourself on the benefits and risks associated with various forms of birth control.

For more information on IUDs, see http://www.webmd.com/sex/birth-control/intrauterine-device-iud-for-birth-control.

Lower Back Pain Causes and Relief


Lower back pain is said to affect people more than accidents or any other forms of ailments. Thus, relief and treatment for the condition is expedient. Lower back pain can happen to anybody at any time- while driving or doing an activity or while playing. Even when one is sedentary, or perhaps due to an accident or injury. Apparently, anybody is susceptible to lower back pain. To what extent is the damage instigated by the condition? One hundred million workdays are lost every year because of it, and it makes up for 15% of a person's sick leaves. This is not at all to be taken lightly.

Proper measures have to be resorted to for treatment, as the condition can potentially cause more damage. Lower back pain can be addressed accordingly once the origin of the pain is identified. Once the affected area is identified, there are varied options for treatment. Treatment primarily depends on the severity of the case. For instance, if lower back pain is due to a ruptured muscle or ligament, a different sort of treatment would be required. It would also entail the attendance of an expert, like a spine specialist. There are pharmaceutical drugs which can relieve the pain of ailment. Among them is acetaminophen, quite one of the most common treatments.

Acetaminophen however delivers only short term relief. If the condition is more severe, then a more potent drug would be required. It can be in the form of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. These are oral medications, and they are prescribed in accordance to the degree of lower back pain. Such drugs are also called pain relievers, and many people have resorted to them. They provide relief almost instantly, although side effects may occur. Natural means can be a better option as they are not likely to have adverse effects. By natural methods of treatment, it means not making use of pharmaceutical drugs.

They are measures such as exercises and nutrition, to mention a few. And they do deliver alleviation and relief, and even a cure. The safest means for back pain relief are in the form of proper back exercises. Such exercises would greatly aid in relaxing the muscles and in improving blood flow. The best resting position when suffering from lower back pain is to lie down on the back. Pillows are to be placed under the knees, and the knees are to be bent. That way, unnecessary weight and pressure would be kept off from the back. This in turn would provide the much needed relief.

Back exercises have been found to be extremely helpful for acute cases. Then there are also heating pads, another natural measure. Heating pads are said to be better than ice packs and could reduce painful muscle spasms. It can also relax the ligaments. Other than these, a natural pain relief product could help, and one such product is available through the Healthzine store. The product is Eazol, and it has been proven safe and effective. Eazol is made up of herbal and organic ingredients, thus, it delivers relief with less likely side effects. Thousands have proven the efficacy of Eazol as it is one of the best products in the market.

Friday, August 2, 2013

Lower Back Pain - Don't Take Too Much Rest But Take These 3 Simple Steps to Get Immediate Relief


Don't take your back pain lying down

This is true both literally and figuratively. Going by the conventional wisdom, you should take rest by lying down on a bed after a bout of back pain. This is not to deny that when you lie down, your back does get rest and relief from the pain resulting from whatever it was that caused it.

But this rest is only temporary. As the wise men say you cannot achieve anything by lying down; you have to get up and try---exert yourself. You have to activate, exercise to strengthen your muscles. Excessive rest may deteriorate the back pain instead of eliminating it.

If at all you cannot rise up, then you should lie flat on your back and place two pillows/wedges below your knees. Elevating your legs may relieve pressure on your lumbar spine.

Do not lie with your face down on the bed, as you may have to raise or twist your head to breathe and this may result in neck pain. You may end up contracting another problem trying to relieve the existing one.

Try to leave the bed and start moving around slowly and carefully as soon as you can.A rule of thumb is that you should not take more then three days rest in normal circumstances.

1.Ice pack

Applying an ice pack on the painful site on the back as soon as possible after the pain occurs may reduce the inflammation. It may numb the nerves that transmit pain messages to the brain.

Put some ice in a bag or a thin towel and place it on the paining spot for about twenty minutes. Remove it and place it again after about 30 minutes.

2.Hot treatment

Ice packs help only within 24 hours of the injury to the back. They do not work thereafter. You have to, instead, apply heat to the ailing spot. Heat relaxes the muscles and increases their elasticity. You may apply heat by using a hot water bottle, infra red lamp or soaking the back in hot water tub for about twenty minutes. Pregnant women should consult the doctors.

3.Change your mattress

Soft and sagging mattresses often cause back pain on their own. Go for a firm mattress that supports your back and helps it to maintain the right mechanism. It should neither be too soft nor too hard.

If a new mattress is beyond your budget, get a three quarters of an inch thick piece of plywood sheet and place it beneath the mattress.

4.Over the counter remedies for back pain treatment

You can generally take over the counter analgesics like aspirin or ibuprofen to relieve the back pain. But they provide only temporary relief. Pregnant women should not take them without consulting doctors. All in all, natural and home remedies for back pain are the best option for immediate as well as long- term relief.

7 Steps to Eliminate Lower Back Pain - Permanently!


Do you suffer from Lower Back Pain? Would you like to move around free and easily, being able to do sport or just play with your children... without the fear of your lower back pain getting worse?

Well, you are in good company. Over 80% of adults experience lower back pain at some stage. Most leave it for months or years before they do anything about it. Yet there are some simple steps to follow that can eliminate your lower back pain - completely and permanently.

Step 1: Muscle Stretches

Yes I know you know about stretches. There are countless ones about and all say they are the miracle cure to your lower back pain... only if you do them this way or that.

But there are no miracle stretches. Sure there are better ways to stretch, but the most important aspect is not how to stretch. The most important aspect of stretching is stretching the right muscles at the right time. There are certain muscles that cause lower backpain. Stretch these and lower back pain will ease, stretch them at the right time and you will not only remove lower back pain you will improve your flexibility in half the time or quicker.

Step 2: Muscle Strength

So which gym am I promoting or which type of exercise is best. In fact - if you don't improve the nerve supply or the blood supply to your muscles, no exercise will create the benefits you need. If a muscle has its' nerve or blood supply compromised, then no matter which exercise you do, the muscle will not gain strength.

Without muscle strength, you fail to have your joints supported. Also if one muscle is too weak it can callow another to tighten. So you need to know the best stretches and strengthening techniques or your muscular system will not heal 100%.

Step 3: Joint Mobility

Your joints need to move freely and easily. If the joint gets "sticky" then the muscles around it will tire out or tighten up. If a joint moves well the muscles are able to function correctly and stay in their ideal state of tension.

But... surely moving joints is in the domain of Chiropractors, Osteopaths and Physio's. Actually there are many techniques that you can use at home to get your joints moving freely and easily. Add in the muscle techniques and the major causes of lower back pain are eliminated, simply and easily.

Step 4: Inflammation

Inflammation can be removed through medication, supplements, Homeopathics and other natural products. You can also use Acupressure or Acupuncture (although Acupuncture is hard to use at home - who wants to stick needles in themselves anyway) which are both highly effective at removing inflammation.

If your joints are tender to touch, if your muscles are sensitive also, then inflammation is likely there. Removing it helps the area heal faster. Left there too long and the area will stiffen and become slower to heal, and even scar tissue can form as a protection.

Step 5: Posture

Is you posture correct, do you stand up straight? Well don't be alarmed, neither of these is important. Posture is a function of lower back pain, energy levels and general health. If you are suffering lower back pain, then your posture changes to accommodate it. If you are tired then you will slouch and have a less ideal posture. Posture is important to help the long term removal of lower back pain and the next step is vital in all postural issues.

Step 6: Rest

Rest means rest. Yes you should relax and rest, stop using your spine each day for at least an hour. Take time here and there to lie down and stop fighting gravity. Gravity is the biggest cause of stress on your spine and muscles.

Lying down is the only way you can rest against gravity. If you lie down a few times a day then your muscles will not tire as easily, joints will have less pressure on them, your disc in your spine will not be squeezed as often and your energy levels in general will be better.

All you need to do is every few hours, take a 5-10 minute break and lie on the floor. When you get home and watch TV, lie on the floor or sofa to rest while you watch the TV. All these help to ease tension off your spine and will also benefit your posture - as if you are less tired, if your muscles have more energy - your posture will improve.

Step 7: Seek Help

If in doubt seek help, if lower back pain persists see your doctor. Lower back pain will usually ease itself within a few weeks. If you use the steps above then you can shorten this time considerably. However if lower back pain persists... seek help. If you follow these 7 steps to eliminate your lower back pain, you will find pain disappears quickly and easily. If you fail to complete any of these steps, or worse if your practitioner does, then lower back pain will return at some stage. To find out which muscles to target, how to move your joints and all the details on the other steps just visit our web page on lower back pain.

Lower Back Pain Releif Tips


Just about everybody has suffered from back pain at one time or another - and those who haven織t yet, the emphasis is on the "yet".

Back pain is perhaps one of the most common ailments around, especially for people who exercise little and tend to live a sedentary life.

When speaking of back pain there can be a number of causes that go from specific movements that have strained the muscles, to a bad posture, slipped disc, spasms, injury to the ligaments, sciatica and even as a result of being overweight.

Lower back pain, also known lumbago, can refer to mild or even severe low back pain. The pain can be acute or chronic and affects young and old people. It is focused in the lower back, the lumbar area. One of the extraordinary things is that people have different pain levels for what appears to be the same cause. An identically strained muscle will cause different levels of pain between two people.

The causes can be many and this is one of the most important aspects that has to be defined. Back pain is a symptom of something and the cause has to be identified so as to apply the correct procedure. Some of the factors causing the lumbago pain can be an old injury that did not heal at all, falls, carrying too much weight or natural causes due to aging of the body.

Who is prone to low back pain?


  • People between 30, 40 and upwards.

  • Those whose physical condition is not in top condition.

  • People who lead sedentary lives.

  • People who eat foods high in fat.

  • Those with arthritis or kidney stones.

  • Pregnant women.

  • People whose jobs require great physical effort.

There are alternative treatments to relieve low back pain

There are several alternatives to address this ailment and these go from surgical procedures to exercise-based therapies. The latter are the most common as they provide very good results and most cases do not require surgical procedures. Another important aspect of exercise therapies is that they are also preventive measures and have a direct relationship to overall health.

Types of exercises to eliminate low back pain

Stretching: Perhaps my favorite. The idea is to make smooth movements that stretch the muscles, ligaments and tendons, in what is known as elongation. By moving the spine and surrounding tissue, it helps eliminate the pain. Stretching has many benefits, for all ages, as it helps reduce tension in the muscles, increase flexibility and therefore the range of movements (try touching your toes). Blood circulation also benefits and so do you as this increases your energy levels.

Strengthening exercises: There are two types. The first is the McKenzie exercise, which involves extension movements that reduce pressure on the muscles of the spine and thereby reduce pain.

Dynamic lumbar stabilization exercises, are performed by a therapist and help patients improve their posture to avoid pain.

Low-intensity aerobic exercise: These should be milder than normal, and what they do is to improve resistance back, but must be practiced constantly to that work. For example, you can:


  • Take a walk.

  • Use a stationary bike.

  • Perform exercises in the water.

In short, to relieve and prevent back pain, the best thing you can do is to exercise, not necessarily going to extremes, but in such a way that your overall fitness is improved and your back and abdominal muscles are stronger and more flexible.

Back and Pelvic Pain After A Hysterectomy


Womenshealth.gov reports that hysterectomies are the second most common surgery performed on women in the U.S. The surgery involves the removal of part or all of the uterus. Some women also have the cervix, fallopian tubes and/or ovaries removed during a hysterectomy.

Women may decide to have their reproductive organs removed if they have cancer in a pelvic organ, fibroids, adenomyosis, a prolapsed uterus, endometriosis or any other pelvic problem causing health concerns. Sometimes the surgery is performed in an attempt to reduce or eliminate chronic pelvic pain, but this may not be the best application of the procedure.

When we think of the aftereffects of a hysterectomy, we often think of early menopause, perceived loss of femininity and the usual post-surgery recovery symptoms. A less-discussed but all-too-common side effect of this procedure is chronic pelvic and back pain. This risk should be factored into your decision-making as much as the other, more commonly discussed risks.

Causes Of Post-Hysterectomy Pain

Two common causes of back and pelvic pain after this procedure are endometriosis and adhesions (scar tissue). Endometriosis occurs when the tissue surrounding the uterus spreads and grows around other organs. This can cause inflammation and pain throughout the pelvic region that radiates to the lower back due to proximity.

Adhesions form as part of the healing process. During a hysterectomy, the surgeon cuts through tissues in your pelvis in order to remove organs. The body responds by sending a rush of materials to the injured areas to promote healing. Collagen strands grow over the parts that have been cut or burned during surgery and attempt to reconnect the wounded tissues. Collagen is the material that makes up scar tissue. Over the period of a year scar tissue can continue to form in the pelvic area and spread to other organs, as the body's healing response is not always well-controlled. Adhesions can form between the bowels, intestines, bladder and vagina. The tension between these organs can cause a significant amount of pelvic pain that radiates to the lower back.

Prevalence

A 2007 study found chronic post-hysterectomy pain to be present in 31.9% of participants a year after surgery. This is enough to inspire caution in those considering hysterectomy as a treatment option for chronic pelvic pain. The study can be found at http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17457133.

Treating Post-Hysterectomy Pain

Common treatments for endometriosis are hormone therapy, healthy weight maintenance and limited intake of alcohol and caffeine.

Treating scar tissue post-surgery may involve another surgery to remove painful adhesions. Fortunately, there are conservative treatments to try before going under the knife again. The Wurn Technique is a special form of massage designed to release adhesions in the pelvic area. Practitioners use a hands-on method to stretch collagen buildups and break them down with sustained pressure. An article on the Wurn Technique can be found at http://www.babyzone.com/getting-pregnant/infertility/wurn-technique_66987.

If you're experiencing pelvic and back pain a long time after your hysterectomy, get checked for endometriosis and adhesions. Try every available conservative means to resolve your pain before considering another surgery.

Causes And Symptoms Of Lower Back Spasms


Spasm can be defined as severe pain experienced in the lower portion of the back. This pain is due to contraction and tightening of the muscle fibers. This can occur while in motion or being stationary. The spasm lasts anywhere between a few minutes to few hours.

The most common cause for spasm is any previous injury or a sudden movement wherein the muscle gets over-stretched and inflamed. Such strain in the muscle ultimately weakens them. Other factors can include excessive movements involving the back, straining physical activities, improper posture while sitting, sleeping or walking, jerky impact on the back or lifting heavy weights.

Some health disorders that cause back pain are multiple sclerosis, inflammations, trauma affecting the nervous system and improper circulation of blood in the back. Unbalanced diet, especially lack of potassium which causes electrolyte imbalance, dehydration resulting in improper lubrication of the muscles, overdose of certain medicines can result in spasms. Menstruation and pregnancy in women also cause back spasms due to imbalance of hormones and growth of the fetus.

The most prominent symptom of spasm is shooting pain in the lower back. In some cases, the slightest movement of some parts of the body like hands or legs can trigger pain. Another symptom is a sense of discomfort while changing posture, or while trying to do some work. Sometimes one feels a sense of rigidness in the back which does not permit the slightest bit of movement or pain develops when the back muscle is used continuously for a long span of time. These are also indicators of back muscle spasm.

Causes of Low Back Pain in Women - Symptoms, Treatment, Back Support For Painful Back Aches


Does your lower back hurt?

Do you want to find an honest way to treat your lower back pain and get relief?

1.) Introduction

Unfortunately lower back pain can show up at any time. Sometimes it just comes screaming out of nowhere and you may be looking for answers now. Common causes of lower back pain are discussed here and a cost effective treatment option is also discussed in the following paragraphs. You do not deserve to live with any level of back pain, and this free information can help those of us that need pain relief.

2.) Causes of Lower Back Pain in Women

Some of the main causes of lower back pain include lumbar strains and irritation to the nerves that are located in the lumbar spine. Wear and tear (overuse) and degenerative issues that may include your intervertebral discs may really irritate your lower back. You do not necessarily need to be in some form of an accident to have back pain. Even a bad mattress can irritate your back, for example.

3.) Now What? - How Can You Relieve Your Back Pain Now!

Rest and ice are at home methods that have been used for years and years. Sure, you know about them, but you may not always think about their limitations. Rest is for those that have a lot of time on their hands. Maybe you have some, but can you afford to lay around with ice strapped to you for long lengths of time? We are willing to bet that life asks more of you and it is hard to always rest as much as you may want to. - Moreover, rest is not a cure all. If you make a sudden movement while resting it is possible to irritate your internal structures without some form of protection.

4.) Back Support & How It Can Help You

If you have never had a back support you should think it through for a moment. These days, back supports are more light weight and low profile in design. As a result, you will be able to easily conceal many if not all of them with a t-shirt! A quality low profile back support can help reduce movements that can further an injury that you may have.

Pain relief is another common benefit of braces. The increased intercavitary pressure that a brace can provide effectively can unload your lower back discs, muscles and other structures for almost immediate pain relief. - Even if you do not get instant and total pain relief, you should still think about using a back support because they can help promote healing of an injured lumbar spine.

* This is health information. For medical advice that pertains to your particular situation, it is best to consult your physician. We do believe in the benefits of back support but we are not your physician.

Thursday, August 1, 2013

A New Drug For Chronic Lower Back Pain Relief


Eli Lilly Canada recently announced that Health Canada has approved Cymbalta簧 (duloxetine HCl) for the management of chronic low back pain (CLBP).

The approval is based on the results of two randomized, double-blind, 12-13 week, placebo-controlled studies in 637 adult patients with a clinical diagnosis of chronic low back pain with pain present on most days for at least 6 months and no sign of radiculopathy or spinal stenosis.

The primary efficacy endpoint in both studies was a reduction in pain severity as measured by the Brief Pain Inventory (PBI) 24-hour average pain rating on the 11-point Likert scale (0 = no pain; 10 = worst possible pain). In both studies, patients taking Cymbalta 60 mg once daily experienced significantly greater pain reduction compared to placebo. In addition, some patients reported pain reduction as early as one week into the trial after starting the 60 mg dose, which continued throughout the study.

Cymbalta has been evaluated for safety in 698 patients with chronic low back pain The most common side effects reported in the two studies included nausea, insomnia, somnolence, constipation, dry mouth, fatigue and dizziness.

About Cymbalta

Cymbalta is a potent and balanced serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI), which targets two chemical messengers in the brain believed to play a role in sensitivity to pain - serotonin and norepinephrine. While the mechanism of action of duloxetine in humans is not fully known, scientists believe its effect on pain perception is due to increasing the activity of serotonin and norepinephrine in the central nervous system.

Cymbalta is now indicated in Canada for three distinct pain conditions: chronic low back pain, neuropathic pain associated with diabetic peripheral neuropathy and fibromyalgia. It is also indicated in Canada for the symptomatic relief of major depressive disorder (MDD) and generalized anxiety disorder (GAD).

Duloxetine is contraindicated in patients who are allergic to it, who have liver disease resulting in hepatic impairment, who are taking a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) including linezolid and methylene blue, thiorazidine, potent CYP1A2 inhibitors (e.g. fluvoxamine), and some guinolone antibiotics (e.g. ciprofloxacin or enoxacine), who have uncontrolled narrow glaucoma, or who have severe kidney disease.

Eli Lilly is a leading innovation-driven corporation, renowned for developing a growing portfolio of first-in-class and best-in-class pharmaceutical products by applying the latest research from its own worldwide laboratories and from collaborations with eminent scientific organizations. Headquartered in Indianapolis, Indiana, Lilly provides answers - through medicines and information - for some of the world's most urgent medical needs. Eli Lilly Canada, headquartered in Toronto, Ontario, employs close to 500 people across the country.

Favorite Yoga for Back Pain DVDs & Books


I discovered yoga more than a decade ago while trying to relieve severe back pain and sciatica caused by two herniated disks in my lumbar spine. A gentle yoga program gradually delivered the relief I was seeking and I have remained enthusiastic about yoga ever since. So much so, I now teach gentle yoga to beginners.

Since I know first hand how devastating and debilitating severe chronic low back pain can be, I'm always on the lookout for safe and effective yoga programs designed to help end the suffering.

It's important to note that certain yoga poses such as forward bends and certain twists can further aggravate some back conditions so it's important to check with your doctor before beginning a yoga program and to always trust the signal's your body is sending you. If any movement ever causes severe, sharp pain or discomfort DO NOT DO IT!

Here is a list of some of my favorite books & DVDs that can help:

DVDs

Yoga Rx for the Low Back by Larry Payne provides two safe, user-friendly yoga routines that are helpful for rehabilitating chronic low back pain, sciatica and disc problems. If you have been suffering with chronic lumbar pain, sciatica, or have been diagnosed with disc problems in your lower back, this DVD was designed with you in mind. Yoga expert and former back pain sufferer, Larry Payne, expertly instructs you through two fifteen minutes routines which are taught in a safe, user-friendly style of yoga commonly associated with yoga therapy.

Viniyoga Therapy for the Low Back, Sacrum, and Hips by Gary Kraftsow is a high quality professional DVD by the yoga therapy expert who designed the yoga therapy protocol used in the National Institutes of Health Study that successfully demonstrated the effectiveness of yoga therapy for relieving back pain. Kraftsow provides the protocols used in the study in this highly educational instructional DVD - a gift for anyone who has ever struggled with low back pain.

Books

Yoga Heals Your Back by Rita Trieger includes several 10-minute routines designed to stretch and strengthen your back - simple daily programs that only take a few minutes in addition to good introductory information to help you begin in a safe way. Trieger, editor-in-chief of Fit and Fit Yoga, has been practicing yoga and meditation for more than 20 years.

Back RX - A 15-Minute-A-Day Yoga and Pilates Based Program to End Low Back Pain is an informative book written from the perspective of a physician and back pain sufferer. Its author, Vijay Vad, MD, is a sports medicine specialist, professor at Cornell University Medical Center, and Back Care Advisor for the PGA Tour. His program blends traditional physical therapy/rehabilitation with yoga and Pilates poses and has been shown effective in clinical trials.

If you suffer from chronic low back pain you owe it to yourself to give yoga a try. These books and DVDs are designed to to help. Check them out today.

Are You the Cause of Your Lower Back Pain?


The most common cause of lower back pain is muscle strain associated with heavy physical work, lifting, bending and twisting. It is usually experiences as sudden, sharp, persistent, or dull pain.

It is always advisable to get a medical check-up if the pain persists for more than a few days following rest. A thorough examination will assess your medical history, posture, the range of spinal movement and possibly a neurological test to determine the state of your reflexes.

Some questions they may not ask in an examination.

Have you ever been asked at a treatment or examination if you know the location of you hips joints? Sounds a bit odd doesn't it! But in many cases of lower back pain it can be a tremendous help and once you can learn to move from the most appropriate places. The amount of stress on the lower back can be reduced dramatically once you move as nature intended.

Poor posture is recognised as a factor in lower back pain, but why do so many adults suffer from it - some studies estimate 80%! Modern life presents us with many pressures - work, finances and spending long hours sitting at desks or in cars. This sort of lifestyle for most adults leads to an increase in muscle tension resulting in the familiar neck, shoulder and back pain and other general aches and pains. Ultimately it will change your body dynamics and alter the way you move.

Habits you are probably unaware of will influence the way you move and your concept of how you body works. Due to the nature of habit it can be difficult changing them but it is not impossible. A course in re-education can help to correct your body concept and get you moving as nature intended again. Some exercises may help but they will not change your habits associated with standing, sitting and moving - these may well be the cause for your lower back pain. Yoga and tai chi can be very effective re-education methods and there are many recorded cases of how they help with back conditions.

In my view, both from a past back pain sufferer and now as a professional, one of the best methods to change your habits is The Alexander Technique. It is one of the few disciplines that recognises the role and nature of habit in lower back pain and many other general disorders. Until your concepts and habits relating to your movement changes, your condition will stay untouched.

Back pain, the driver and the mechanic

A man takes his car to a garage with a faulty gearbox. The mechanic identifies the fault and replaces a number of components. A few months later the man returns with the same problem, so again the mechanic replaces the suspect parts.

Not long afterwards the same car is towed into the garage after a breakdown. The mechanic assumes there must be a design fault with this model but cannot recall seeing many similar faults. If the design was suspect then everyone would have the same problem, therefore it must be something the driver is doing wrong. He replaces the gearbox and asks the driver if he could accompany him on a drive. The mechanic notices how poorly the man drives the car particularly when changing gear. He suggests to the driver that a few lessons might help to improve his habits. The driver follows this advice and eventually the problems with the gearbox cease.

He did not learn to drive like this. His bad habits developed gradually due to lack of attention to his driving whilst pre-occupied with other matters. He had never been a passenger to observe how other people drive. The mechanic could not identify the root of the problem by just looking at the car - he had to observe the driver and car in action to diagnose the cause.

We know that habits can be harmful to health. The end result of more obvious habits such as smoking and over-eating are easy to see. But what about the habits we do not know we have? Applying excessive effort to everything we do can be just as damaging. Your lower back pain may be due to your driving habits.

Lower Back Muscle Pain - Identify the Cause and Then Eliminate It


When you woke up this morning, how did your lower back feel? Did you feel ready to jump out of bed or was it a little more painful than that? Do you ever suffer from lower back muscle pain and cannot figure out how to make it go away? Then you are not alone, because almost everyone suffers from some kind of back pain at some point in their lives. To make matters worse, as people age, they can have chronic back pain, where they are suffering for several days a week with lower back muscle pain.

Can you identify what causes your back pain? Chances are, if you're like the many who suffer from this type of condition, you don't really know what's causing your back problems. So, you keep going and doing, without any idea of what's causing your lower back muscle pain to flare up time after time. Well, how can you fix it if you don't know why it's getting hurt in the first place? You have to identify it before you can eliminate it.

Are The Muscles That Support Your Back Strong?

There are a few things you should consider when it comes to causes of your lower back muscle pain. The first of which is pretty obvious, but often overlooked - your core. A strong healthy core or the deep abdominal muscles in the stomach region are the biggest supporters of the back. Without a strong core, your back muscles have to carry the brunt of controlling your body's movements, keeping you erect and serving as shock absorbers for the spine. Many people who suffer from muscle pain have found that they injure themselves because they add more work to the already tired back muscles by lifting and carrying things improperly. Now, you should know that the "things" don't necessarily matter. You could be carrying your groceries, your child or a small box, but if your core muscles are not strong, then you will likely injure your back.

With this cause of lower back muscle pain, the reason you feel it in this region is because the lower back muscles are the ones that do the extra work when lifting and carrying things. If you had a stronger core, however, you would feel the deep abdominal muscles engage when you properly lifted items and would be able to avoid lower back muscle pain.

Is Your Body Out Of Balance and Misaligned?

Another cause of lower back pain is your alignment and the balance of your muscles. Maybe this seems abstract, but, if you consider that you have two sides to your body - the left and right - and your spine is in the middle, then the idea might make more sense. We know that the spine is cushioned and supported by the muscles on either side of the back. This should mean that both sides work equally to keep the spine in its proper place and support it. Unfortunately, this isn't usually the case. In fact, many people are "mis-balanced", which will often result in lower back muscle pain.

Here's an example: if you are holding something up with both of your legs, you would want to "balance" the item so that your legs grew fatigued at equal times, but could hold the item up for twice as long. Now, as you hold the item, imagine that your weaker leg begins to tire more quickly, which leaves your stronger leg to do more work. Your stronger leg will eventually begin to ache because it is being forced to work more than the weaker one. This is what happens with many backs.

The best way to eliminate lower back muscle pain is to identify the cause of your pain and work to fix the cause. While it's important to get relief quickly, it's also essential to consider the long term health of your back in order to fully and completely get rid of lower back muscle pain forever.

Cure My Lower Back Ache - Adjust Your Body Positions and Get Rid of Lower Back Ache Once and For All


Lower back ache is the 5th common health problem in the US. Out of ten adults, nine were experiencing lower back pain at some point in their lives. Five out of ten working adults have back pain every year.

If you're also suffering from lower back ache, it is absolutely NORMAL. The cause for lower back ache may be due to an old time injury you made during your childhood or much common mistakes you make every day- Positional dysfunction. Sitting, walking, standing or even sleeping with inaccurate positions for long term can cause back pain.

Let's take sleep for an example. Do you know which position of sleeping is best for your back? The answer is side sleeping. If you're suffering from lower back pain at the moment, side sleep with your knees bent with a pillow under your head and another between your legs is the best position to have your ache cured.

Next example- Sitting. To cure your back ache, sit in chairs with straight backs or low-back support. Try to keep your knees slightly higher than your hips. When driving, move the seat forward and sit straight. This helps you not to lean forward to reach the controls. A small pillow or rolled towel can be placed behind your lower back if you're making long distance driving.

Walking might be an exercise we perform the most daily. Inaccurate walking positions will cause muscle balance and back ache problem in long run. So how should you walk properly? Firstly, your back should be straight as you walk, allowing for its natural curves. You shouldn't be leaning backwards or forwards. A slight forward lean is acceptable on hill climbs. When you walk, your heel should be the first to hit the ground rather than your toes. Shorter steps are always better than longer steps to give a better workout on your joints.

The body positional tips above are used to cure and relieve your low back ache problems. If your ache still lasts after using the tips above, doing muscle balance exercises is the last resort for you before seeing a doctor.

Stop Lower Back Pain in 4 Simple Steps


Back pain affects more people than almost any other ailment. From physically demanding jobs to office work parked in a chair, back pain disrupts people in every segment of society. The most common form of back pain occurs in the lower part of the spine.

The causes of lower back pain are just as widespread as the people it affects. In this article I will explain the root causes of lower back pain and how to manage this pain on a daily basis. For most, it is possible to do away with back pain entirely. The strategies explained here will help just about everyone be free of back pain.

The following are some of the most common causes of lower back pain:

1. Improperly lifting heavy objects - For people who lift heavy objects on a daily basis, back pain is almost inevitable. The way in which you lift objects is very important.

Putting the bulk of the weight on your legs will take a lot of the strain of your back. Squat like a catcher when you pick things up off the ground; do not bend over at the waist to lift objects on the ground.

2. Poor posture - The way you carry your body is a big part of back pain. People who slouch and do not square their shoulders while standing will inevitably have back problems -- most likely scoliosis, a condition that can deform the spine.

Practice standing up straight and squaring your shoulders. A good method is to stand with your back against the wall and push your shoulders and neck against the wall. This will give you a starting point for how you should carry your body. In short, listen to your mother and stand up straight!

Poor posture also applies to the way you sit and lay. Many people who sit on the couch let their body slide down so that their neck is bent at an extreme angle. This can lead to serious back pain and have potentially long term consequences.

3.Improper Breathing - Yes, there is an incorrect way to breath. Taking short breaths and not breathing fully through your diaphragm can lead to poor posture and poor circulation. Poor circulation will prevent proper blood flow and can often lead to muscle cramps, particularly in the back.

If you catch yourself slouching excessively, stand up and take a few deep breaths. Roll your shoulders back to front and front to back. Stretch your neck and upper body and go stand against the wall to straighten yourself out.

4. Stress - Stress has many negative effects on the body, including muscle tension. Time management, getting lots of sleep, and eating a healthy diet are a few ways to dramatically reduce stress - which will in turn reduce lower back pain.

Adjusting one's posture is a huge challenge for many people. In fact, most people who actively try to change the way they sit and stand will notice more back pain than they had before. But do not panic! This happens as a result of using the muscles in your back that were previously not used to fully support your weight.

Think of it as working out. Just starting out, you are likely to have sore muscles after a workout. But after a week or two, the soreness does not occur as often and your muscles can bear the strain much better than before. It is the same thing for back pain -- train your body to support your weight and in practically no time at all, back pain and soreness will disappear.

Lifting heavy objects, poor posture, improper breathing, and stress all affect the support system that keeps us upright -- our vertebrate. Following the methods I just discussed, you should be free of lower back pain in as little as a week.

NOTE: Another cause of lower back pain not discussed here is sciatica -- a pain caused by the sciatica nerve in your leg. This pain often travels up from the leg into the lower back, causing a sharp pain. To learn more about sciatica, check out these sciatica and lower back pain resources [http://www.onestopshopstream.com/index.php?catid=503].

Wednesday, July 31, 2013

Lower Back Pain When Sneezing


If you feel sudden lower back pain when you sneeze, you may find that you have sneezed so hard that you have actually strained or pulled a muscle. Some people go all out when they sneeze, and belt out huge sneezes that seem to rock the whole body. Often this is accompanied by a jolt forward, and something as simple as this can put additional strain on the muscles in the lower back.

If the pain comes on for the first time when you sneeze then the chances are that sneezing has caused the pain directly. However, if you were already experiencing problems in the back region, your sneezing may have simply set off a pre-existing condition or made it worse. The pain that you experience may be very short term or may continue even after several days. If the discomfort continues you may need to visit your doctor to ensure that there is no underlying problem that is causing the pain.

Determining the cause

It can be easy to assume that your back problem has been caused as a result of the sneezing, but there could be another explanation for it. You should ascertain whether there is any other accompanying pain such as leg pain, numbness, or tingling. If the problem continues after a few days you should get it checked out by the doctor, as you may need assistance with the muscle strain. You may even find that something else is causing the pain. Your doctor will be able to run scans and tests to find out the root cause of the pain.

If you have inflammation or you are experiencing constant discomfort your doctor may prescribe painkillers or anti-inflammatory medication. This may be in addition to other treatments such as physical therapy. This type of therapy is considered highly beneficial to those with back issues. It can involve manipulation of the spine and surrounding muscles, massage, and exercise techniques. This combination can help to ease the discomfort as well as improve mobility in the back region.

Alleviate discomfort further with home stretches

Stretching can help with a multitude of back related problems, and you could find that some simple exercises and stretches can benefit you in many ways. Your physical therapist can recommend some excellent stretches. You will be able to relieve tension from the muscles and reduce stiffness. This can help to ease mobility and flexibility so that you can move more easily and painlessly. Just some simple stretches can help to get the blood flowing, stretch the muscles, and strengthen the spine and back. All of this can help to alleviate the symptoms if you have been experiencing lower back pain when sneezing.

My Aching Back!


You've probably heard, or uttered, those words. Doctors hear them often. Back pain is one of the most common complaints in medical practice.

Causes of Neck and Back Pain

What would cause a sharp searing pain on my right back side? What causes upper back shoulder pain and neck pain? What causes neck and back pain?

These are but a few of the questions asked by millions who suffer back pain each year - about 6 million in the U.S. alone. An estimated 80% of us will experience back pain sometime in our lives. It may occur by itself, or be accompanied by other symptoms such as fever and chills.

The causes of back pain are many, making diagnosis difficult and critical. We recommend that you see your doctor for all back pain. Most causes of back pain involve no serious underlying problem, and the pain can be relieved in a few days or weeks. If the causes of back pain you experience involve other symptoms, the tips offered here are not to be followed without medical advice.

Causes of Back Pain in the Lower Back

Low back pain affects the lower part of your back - between the bottom of your ribs in back down to the top of your legs.

Doctors break down low back pain into three categories according to how long you have had it:

1. Acute Low Back Pain - you have had it less than 6 weeks
2. Sub-acute Low Back Pain - you have had it 6 to 12 weeks
3. Chronic Low Back Pain - you have had it longer than 3 months

Causes of back pain in the lower back are most often linked to strain of back muscles, ligaments, or tendons. Sometimes the cushion between the bones is strained. Sometimes you will know the exact causes of back pain in your lower back. Other times, it may hit without warning.

Causes of back pain in the lower back include:

* past injuries that are not fully healed

* incorrect lifting techniques

* incorrect posture

* little exercise

* vehicular accidents

* improper setup of your work area

* long hours at a desk

* long hours by the TV

* obesity

* pregnancy

Causes of Back Pain in the Mid Back

The causes of back pain in the mid back usually fall into the category of irritation or injury to muscles and ligaments of your middle spine - the area along the backs of your ribs.

Some or all of the following may be causes of back pain in your mid back:

* past injuries that are not fully healed

* incorrect lifting techniques

* incorrect posture

* little exercise

* vehicular accidents

* improper setup of your work area

* long hours at a desk

* long hours by the TV

* obesity

* pregnancy

Causes of Back Pain in the Upper Back and Neck

Some people refer to this as upper back shoulder pain and neck pain. This pain is felt in the area between the back of your chest and the base of your skull.

Causes of back pain in your upper back, unrelated to the shoulders and neck, are usually muscular irritation and joint dysfunction.

Shoulder and neck pain are more common than pain in the center of your upper back. Your neck supports your head. Made of seven, stacked vertebrae bones that are cushioned by cartilage discs bound together with ligaments, your neck is very mobile. Muscles provide movement and support to your neck.

Your neck is more susceptible to injury than the rest of your upper back. Trauma, poor posture, and degenerative diseases such as arthritis, are the most common causes of back pain in the neck area. Whiplash is another cause of back pain in the neck.

If you were a vehicle passenger involved in a rear end collision, you may have suffered whiplash injury to your neck. The impact of the collision would force your head back and then forward at a great speed. This would stretch your neck and upper back too much and too quickly, resulting in a strain or tear to supporting ligaments, muscles and discs. It could even irritate your upper back nerves.

Your shoulder is a ball and socket joint that offers a large range of movement. Like your neck, this mobile joint tends to be more susceptible to injury. Your shoulder joints depend on shoulder muscles to keep them stable. Causes of back pain in the shoulder area usually involve these muscles.

Incorrect posture can cause both neck and shoulder pain.

* Standing with your shoulders slouching, chin jutting forward, can put extra strain on your ligaments and muscles.
* Sitting with your head down for long periods of time as you work at a desk or read can exert similar strain.
* Slumping in your seat is another cause of shoulder and neck pain.
* If you tend to sleep on your stomach, your sleeping posture could be the cause of back pain.

Other Causes of Back Pain

As shown above, causes of back pain are most often linked to strain of back muscles, ligaments, or tendons. There are many conditions other than strain, however, that can cause back pain. Below is a partial list:

* Arthritis - causing joint inflammation

* Herniated disc - irritating nearby nerves

* Spinal stenosis - spinal canal narrowing that compresses nerves

* Spondylolisthesis - slipped vertebrae resulting in pinched nerves

* Vertebral fractures - resulting from trauma or osteoporosis

* Degenerative disc disease - aging process that breaks down discs

Whatever the causes of back pain, the most effective prevention is to overcome incorrect posture and incorrect lifting techniques.

Does Clomid Really Cause Back Pain? Controversial Views Revealed


There is some controversy abut Clomid causing back pain. Many experts in the medical field may difer in their opinions with some saying that back pain is not a side effect of Clomid. However, they add, that there are some other side effects of Clomid that may result in back pain. So, it all boils down to how one looks at it!

To begin with it is important to understand what Clomid is and why is it consumed. Clomid is a drug that infertile women take regularly to ovulate in order to conceive. The drug Clomid is taken by women who cannot conceive and not by those who have already conceived. The administration of the drug is very complicated and is designed to stimulate the production of hormones in many different processes. Just like any of it's cousins Clomid also has an extensive list of side effects some of which include bleeding from the uterus, gaining excessive weight and general painful feelings at the joints and body.

Back pain can be traced back to the use of Clomid in 2 ways. The 1st way is that it increases the secretion of the hormone Progesterone. Progesterone is a hormone produced when a woman gets pregnant and is generally supposed to loosen the ligaments and muscles of her body to be able to deal with the pregnancy. When the pelvic and abdomen muscles loosen the back is left with little or no support and so the lower back develops painful condition.

Abdominal pain is another side effect of Clomid caused by the second link to the drug causing back pain. Many times abdominal pain is very similar to back pain. Many women being administered the drug complain of back pain on one side of the abdomen. When women taking Clomid experience this type of development should immediately report it to their doctor as this can be an indication of serious things to come.

With the knowledge that back pain and Clomid are invariably connected still does not deter women from taking this medication in the hope of getting pregnant. Clomid has worked for many individuals who were experiencing difficulty conceiving and so has become very popular. If you are intent of taking the drug you should be well aware of all the possible side effects and low back pain is one of the most common reactions of the body to the drug.

So, if you knowing full well that you might develop low back pain when you take Clomid, and you do develop the pain you should confer with your doctor and resort to a series of therapeutic exercises to decrease the pain. Try to do without the drug once the pain develops then resume it at a later stage. This is one way to deal with this serious side effect of Clomid.

What Causes Lower Left Side Back Pain?


Many people experience lower left side back pain, which can last for days, weeks or months at a time. Common symptoms may include localized pain below the ribs and around the side of the torso. In addition, lower left side back pain may be intermittent in frequency in which it is more tolerable during certain hours of the day. Often times, people who have lower left side back pain will notice a stabbing or dull, aching pain. Many people may also be hyper-sensitive to touch, which stays localized to the lower left side of the back. For others, the pain remains unaffected even with changes in dietary habits. Some people who have lower left side back pain may also experience discomfort when taking deep breaths, lying still or during exercise. Changes in bowel movements may also be accompanied with lower left side back pain.

Frustration can be a common emotion for many people experiencing these symptoms because many doctors have trouble finding an accurate diagnosis. Even extensive testing such as medical imaging, colonoscopy, ultrasound, heart scan, blood tests, urine tests and stool tests may all come out normal.

Your doctor may prescribe pain medication, which may or may not help alleviate your pain. Although it is difficult to remain patient during period, please remember that lower left side back pain can be caused by many factors, which make it very difficult to diagnose your condition. If you and your doctor have tried every approach to diagnosing and treating your pain, ask your physician to refer you to a specialist. If you have tried this approach without much success, you may want to consider seeing a new physician. Doctors are very knowledgeable about medical conditions but some may have more expertise and relevant experience with your particular condition. The key to your success is finding a physician who is willing to work with you in treating your condition.

Here is a list of conditions which can cause pain in the lower left side of the back:

Hypochondrial pain: Symptoms include pain under the rib cage, which can be referred from the colon or spleen.

Ectopic pregnancy: A woman with a developing ectopic pregnancy may not display any signs or symptoms of being pregnant. Symptoms include lower abdominal pain, vaginal bleeding, cramping or stabbing pain around the pelvic area, dizziness and felling lightheaded.

Endometriosis: Symptoms may include pain in the pelvis, abdomen and lower back. Heavy flow of vaginal bleeding may accompany these symptoms.

Pancreatitis: Symptoms that are chronic may include indigestion, abdominal pain, back pain, weight loss and steatorrhea (stool that is appears oily and foul smelling).

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): Also known as spastic colon, IBS may be accompanied by abdominal pain, diarrhea, headaches, low back pain and chest pain.

Peptic Ulcer: Symptoms may include a burning pain in the chest, nausea, vomiting, weight loss, change in appetite and back pain.

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disorder: Symptoms may include heartburn, chest pain, back pain, difficulty swallowing or dry cough.

Gastrointestinal bleeding: Common causes include esophageal varices, stomach ulcer, erosions of the esophagus, duodenum or stomach; duodenal ulcer, abnormal blood vessels, colon cancer, anal fissures, colon polyps, diverticulitis, inflammatory bowel disease, internal hemorrhoids and inflammation of the large bowels.

Celiac Disease: Symptoms of celiac disease may mimic those of other conditions such as anemia, parasite infections, irritable bowel syndrome, gastric ulcers and skin disorders. Symptoms may include joint pain, weight loss, back pain, weakness and fatigue, bone disorders such as osteoporosis, diarrhea, abdominal cramps and anemia.

Radicular pain: This occurs when there is irritation or compression along the nerves exiting the spine. Symptoms include pain that is accompanied by weakness, numbness or a tingling sensation. Causes of radicular pain can be due to injury, trauma, soft tissue, disc degeneration, disc herniation, facet syndrome or bony changes to the vertebral column.

Kidney stones: Symptoms include pain below the ribs, pain around the torso and back pain. It is also common to experience pain radiating into the lower abdomen and groin region. Other symptoms include pain during urination, nausea and vomiting.

Gallstones: Symptoms may include pain between the shoulder blades, pain in the center and upper right region of the abdomen, back pain and pain into the right shoulder. Additional symptoms may include abdominal pain after eating meals.

Problems with the adrenal gland: Common symptoms include headaches, dizziness when standing up or changing positions quickly, sensitivity to bright lights and low back pain.

Lumbago is Lower Back Pain - Cause and Treatment


Lower back pain can cause more than pain, it can cause multiple overall long term health issues. Lumbago is a form of arthritis, if not treated at onset, it will contribute to other heath issues from chronic fatigue to upper respiratory disease.

Impractical Causes:


  • Strain
    By improper lifting and handling of items too heavy for the distributed weight of the person. The back and stomach carry most of the body's work force. Don't push your limit.

  • Fat stomach
    If you have a pot belly, this will cause back trouble as a Fat Stomach will pull the back muscles inward. One way that you can reduce excess belly fat without pills and strenuous exercise, is to use a Neoprene body wrap. By wrapping this around your middle it will cause the area to sweat at the same time support the stomach and back.

    Such support tools will reduce not only the extra subcutaneous tissue but reduce back pain. Make sure that you use the wrap over cotton clothing, like shorts, undergarments etc. otherwise, if left on the skin you will develop blisters.

    The cotton clothing will absorb the sweat.


  • Improper Diet
    You may find that you get constipated and even when you eliminate the pressure may subside but the pain is ever persistent.

    This is because you have not eliminated all that there is to eliminate. Try using the Mucousless Foods and 12 Herbs to Healthy Weight Loss, found on Shepherds Purse Naturals. These two Remedies will specifically help your bowels become regular.

    Using split Flax Seed will scrape the walls of the colon and get you having proper elimination. Use one tablespoon full once a day. Yes, put it in your mouth, half of a tablespoon at a time and drink it down the hatch.


  • Hot and Cold
    If your body is very warm and then suddenly cools off or visa versa. This can cause the muscles to tighten up and once seized, have fun.

    Don't sit on cement, stone or marble. These drain the body temperature from the derriere area and can cause the back to suffer for it.

  • This Formula is Confidentially Yours!

    Herbal Treatment:
  • 2 Tablespoons Powdered Mullein

  • 3 Tablespoons Powdered Slippery Elm Bark

  • 1 Tablespoon Lobelia

  • 1 small teaspoon Cayenne
  • Mix thoroughly together and then mix in enough boiling hot distilled or purified water to make a thick paste, about 1 quarter inch thickness. Spread evenly on a white cotton cloth or make a muslin pouch large enough to cover the area. Place on affected area while the paste is still fairly hot and cover with plastic wrap.

    Leave on for at least 2 hours and replace. Do not reuse or reheat the contents of the poultice. Always use fresh herbs when reapplying an application.

    Supplies:
  • Herbs

  • Plastic wrap

  • Cotton cloth or Muslin pouch

  • Distilled or Purified Water

  • Bowl and Mixing Spoon

  • Needle and thread to loosely sew up the open edge of the Muslin Pouch if used
  • Nutrients:
  • Mullein: Vitamin A, Vitamin B1, Iron, Magnesium, Potassium, Sulfer

  • Slippery Elm Bark: Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Potassium,

  • Lobelia: Vitamin C,

  • Cayenne: Vitamin A, Vitamin B1, Vitamin C, Vitamin G, Calcium, Iron, Magnesium, Phosphorous, Sulfer
  • Baking Soda Cancer Cure?

    Is Back Pain Due To A Lack Of Exercise?


    Many people seem to want to know if you can just exercise lower back pain away. Is it only about exercise? That is, did you end up with lower back pain due to a lack of exercise? Or could it be something else?

    Your back pain is not necessarily caused by a lack of exercise, but it's probably a good place to start looking. When I ask patients if they exercise, most are still saying "no." Those that do exercise tend to stick with the same machine or routine for their entire program. (And almost none of their "routine" exercises focus on improving their back muscles.)

    So on one hand, we have those that don't exercise and have lower back pain. It's easy to take a guess and see that their spine is having problems due to a lack of muscular support. While their spine may need more work at this point (check with your healthcare professional), eventually they'll exercise lower back pain away by creating a muscular back support around their spine with regular exercise.

    Those that do exercise, but are not performing a variety of movements are causing a different problem; muscular imbalance. They are likely only developing certain muscle groups while largely ignoring others. Worse, they may be performing activities that are alarmingly similar to what they already do all day.

    They are strengthening muscles that are already overworked (muscles in the front of the body) and not strengthening muscles that are typically ignored (back muscles). This is a standard recipe for developing lower back pain problems and should be avoided.

    Overall, maintaining a variety of activities that includes exercises to enhance cardiovascular health, strengthening and stretching will help exercise lower back pain away for good. The same formula works for almost everyone. First, due some exercise regularly. Next, make sure you take some time to strengthen your back muscles (especially if you already know you need it!).

    Tuesday, July 30, 2013

    Lower Back Pain, Right Side - 5 Tips For Pain Relief


    Lower back pain on right side, does not affect everyone, but at some point in our lives, almost 90% of us will seek attention for pain associated with our backs. And, lower back pain on right side, is among the most common of complaints.

    Why lower back pain on right side, and not the left side?

    Researchers are not entirely certain why there are more cases of lower back pain on right side, than on the left side, but some suspect that since most of us are right-handed, we tend to exert that side more often, making it more prone to injury. Keep in mind a sharp or stinging pain near the small of the back on either side can indicate a serious kidney problem. It is always best to seek the advice of a back, or lumbar pain, specialist when you are not completely sure what is causing your lower back pain on right side.

    Your degree of lower back pain on right side, may not be like hers.

    Did you know that two people can both suffer from a herniated disc; one with excruciating pain and the other with no pain at all? Such disparity is even more common among those who suffer from lumbar muscle strains. Researchers in a study in the New England Journal of Medicine determined that people can suffer the same back conditions while experiencing wildly different pain levels.

    So why are you suffering and not the other guy?

    In most cases, you can blame your lower back pain on right side, on a muscle imbalance along your spine. Years of miss-use and poor posture have allowed our muscles to develop in ways for which they were not designed. Most likely your ancestors were hunters, gatherers, farmers or factory workers. They did not get out of bed, sit in a car to drive to the office, then sit in a chair hunched in front of a computer all day, sit in a car to drive home, sit at the table to eat dinner and sit on the couch to watch TV. See a pattern?

    Even when we stand, our posture is usually poor. Once in a while we may try to get in shape, but will work out the wrong muscles, having no idea that we created a muscle imbalance from the lack of proper movement. For those who work out often, chances are they may be working on the wrong muscles to put their backs and spines back in balance. It is likely that the muscles in that side of your back have developed inadequately.

    So what can be done to relieve your lower back pain on right side?


    1. Look for a muscle balance specialist who can pinpoint which muscles you need to work on in order to build up weak areas. There are some pretty good ones out there so do your homework and you should be fine.

    2. Immediate relief can be found with medication, but check with your doctor first. He will probably recommend Tylenol first, then an anti-inflammatory such as Advil, Motrin, Aleve or even aspirin.

    3. You can lie in bed, but only for a couple days. More than that and your muscles will begin to atrophy and will create more lower back pain on right side. If you do take some rest, make sure you get up and move around every hour or so, even if it hurts. Movement will help you recover sooner.

    4. Ice may be good for a day or two, but only if there is swelling. After the swelling goes down, switch to heat as it will help to increase blood flow to the painful area.

    5. Yes, movement is important, but if your lower back pain on right side, is really bad, take a rest every now and then by lying on your back with your feet or knees propped up. Some people like to put their legs on a chair with their back flat on the floor. If you use a laptop, you can still get some work done this way as you rest your back. Do not stay on the floor too long. Be sure to get up and move around. Did we mention that movement is our friend?

    Please remember that if you are in doubt as to the cause of your lower back pain on right side, see a specialist so they can rule out any serious problems.

    Are You Willing to Follow Eight Yoga Exercises For the Lower Back?


    EXERCISES FOR BACK RELIEF

    Many people believe that rest is best for a painful back, but actually, what your back really needs when it's hurt is exercise. Regular exercise relieves back pain by strengthening and stretching the muscles that support the spine and helps to prevent future injury. This is a use it or lose it situation: the more you rest, the weaker your back gets, even if it is hurt. Studies have actually shown that you can heal your back pain faster and get back to your regular activities with just two days of rest. This article will focus on Yoga Exercises. Remember to contact your doctor before beginning any exercise program.

    YOGA EXERCISES FOR YOUR BACK

    A good, regular yoga practice will go far in relieving the stress and tension that sometimes cause mild back pain, and in fact, studies have shown that yoga is the number one most effective exercise for relieving back pain. However, not all yoga poses relieve back pain, and some can in fact aggravate existing pain, so it is important to know which poses will be most helpful in relieving back pain. It is best to do these exercises under the supervision of a certified yoga instructor, and if you encounter any problems with these poses, you should consult an expert. Even just one or two sessions with a yoga instructor can help, as an instructor will help you with your form and posture during poses. Here are some of the best yoga poses for relieving back pain. Each pose should be held from five to ten seconds, depending upon your level of comfort, and should be done on a mat or other soft, supportive surface.

    CORPSE: Lie flat on your back in a relaxed position, arms resting at your sides, palms down, and legs lying naturally, with knees turned out slightly. If it hurts your back to have your knees turned outward, do this pose with knees bent, feet flat on the floor. Breathe in and out for a few seconds while allowing any tension to leave the body.

    CAT STRETCH: Start out on your hands and knees with a flat back. Your hands should be directly under your shoulders with fingers spread. Knees should be directly under the hips. Head is held loosely so that you are looking at the floor between your hands. Inhale, and as you exhale, arch your back toward the ceiling, tuck your chin in to your chest so that you are looking at your navel, and tuck your tailbone underneath. Hold, then release back into your original position.

    WIND-RELEASING POSE: Lie flat on your back as in Corpse pose. As you inhale, bend your knee, place your hands right below the knee, and draw your leg towards your chest. Your left leg should remain flat on the floor. Exhale and bring your forehead up to touch your knee. Inhale, and then as you exhale, return to your original position. Repeat with the other leg.

    SAGE TWIST: Warning for this pose-it involves twisting your back, so you should take particular care not to twist too far or you risk aggravating any existing back pain. This should be a gentle stretch; twist just as far as is comfortable. Sit on the floor with both legs out in front of you. Bend your right knee, lift your right leg over your left, and place your right foot on the floor next to your left knee. Sitting with spine straight, place your left elbow on the right side of your right knee. Bend your left arm so that your left fingertips are touching your right hip, while at the same time, twisting to look over your right shoulder. This is where you need to be careful not to twist too far. Hold for a few seconds, release, and repeat on the opposite side.

    PALM TREE: Stand with feet facing forward, arms at your sides, weight distributed evenly on both feet. Raise both arms over your head, interlock your fingers, and turn your hands so that your palms are facing upward. Next, place your palms on your head and turn your head so that you are looking slightly upward. Stretch your arms upwards, and at the same time, come up onto your toes if you can do so without pain. Stretch your entire body upward and hold, if you can. Some people have difficulty balancing during this pose, so just do the stretching part if you need to.

    FISH POSE: Lie on your back with knees bent and arms at your side. Arch your back as far as you comfortably can and raise it off the ground by pushing the floor with your elbows. If you can, tilt your head backwards and rest the crown of your head on the floor. Breathe deeply from the diaphragm and hold pose for one minute if you can.

    LOCUST: Lie face down with arms at the side, palms down, and elbows slightly bent with fingers pointing towards the feet. Raise your legs and thighs as high off the ground as possible without causing your back any pain. Hold for one second and repeat up to twelve times. This can be a vigorous exercise so you must take care to strain already injured muscles.

    BENDING FORWARD POSTURE: Stand up straight with feet together and arms hanging loosely along your sides. Breathe in deeply and raise your arms straight above your head. While breathing out, bend forward and touch your toes if you can. If you can't reach your toes, grab hold of your ankles or calves. To complete the pose, you should touch your head to your knees, but this may be too difficult for many who suffer from lower back pain. Your movements during this pose should be smooth, not jerky.

    PMS Symptoms - Back Pain


    PMS is the time just prior to your menstrual cycle. This time usually brings with it some uncomfortable symptoms for many women. The severity of which can be from mild to severe enough to be debilitating. Back pain is just one of the symptoms of PMS.

    PMS SYMPTOMS

    Believe it or not those food cravings are real and have real basis. The cravings for chocolate and other sweet treats are occurring because these foods can cause a rapid increase in the levels of serotonin. Serotonin is the brain chemical that helps to manage mood, sleep cycles, and your appetite. Giving into these cravings can cause weight gain.

    Weight gain can also be attributable to water retention. Cramps are spasms and can be very painful. Fatigue, irritability, anger and aggression are also symptoms that can affect you just prior to and a couple of days into your period. You might also experience concentration problems and sleep problems. Mood swings, anxiety, and depression may also occur to varying degrees.

    Hormonal effects on symptoms can include migraines, sore breasts, and bloating. These symptoms are not the same for every woman. The quantity and severity is different for each one. It is also notable that for yourself the symptoms you may experience can be different from month to month.

    Back pain is also a primary symptom of PMS. Back pain in the lower back can be very uncomfortable. The degree of back pain can be anything from a very dull twinge of pain to absolutely spasmodic pain. The good news is that there are things you can do to alleviate PMS symptoms, back pain.

    PMS Symptoms, Back Pain Treatments

    Medication both OTC - over the counter and prescriptive medications can benefit PMS symptoms including back pain. An Anti-inflammatory may be used to deal with the pain and the inflammation. Water retention may also contribute to back pain as it does to pre -period weight gain. There are medications to deal with this but there are also some things you can do that do not require medication.

    Back pain can benefit from a heating pad applied to the lower back, Stretching exercises can help and so can the Yoga pose "legs up the wall" You lie on the floor with your buttocks against the wall and your legs flat against the wall. You will be in the form of an L. Massage is a treat but also beneficial to body aches including PMS symptoms back pain.

    Due to the serious side effects from some of the prescribed medications, many are looking for natural treatments such as herbal supplements to help give them relief from the uncomfortable PMS symptoms. Herbs that may benefit your PMS symptoms include Black Cohosh, Red Clover, and Damiana among others.

    Quality supplements are a blend of standardized herbal extracts and other nutritive substances that are known to benefit PMS symptoms. Standardized herbal extracts are used because this is the location of the herb's most active ingredients. Quality supplements will have been put through rigorous testing. The ingredients' metabolism at the molecular level is examined as are the interactions of the ingredients. They will have been made to meet pharmaceutical grade standards.

    These above processes guarantee that you are getting exactly what the label says you are. They further ensure the purity, safety, and effectiveness of the supplements. Quality is not only guaranteed from pill to pill but from bottle to bottle. You should not take anything unless you consult your doctor because some herbs can affect the performance of prescriptions you may be taking for other conditions.

    Conclusion

    PMS symptoms back pain can be treated in a variety of ways. They include medications including an anti-inflammatory, over the counter (OTC) medicines and with herbal supplements. Stretching, some Yoga positions, and heating pads are all effective. An added treat could be massage. There is treatment and there are treatments with few if any side effects.

    Can Rapid Weight Loss Cause Back Pain?


    It is well-established that being overweight or obese increases one's chance of experiencing lower back pain. With that in mind, it makes sense to view weight loss as a back pain treatment. Rapid weight loss, however, can cause back pain in a number of ways.

    Malnutrition

    Rapid weight loss diets often revolve around the principle of ketosis, where the body burns its fat due to a decrease in the supply of sugars it receives to burn. Low-carbohydrate diets fall into this category. When cutting out grains and fruits, you will miss out on some of the nutrients you usually receive. The whole body is affected by malnutrition; muscles will not be able to function properly and may spasm or weaken, causing them to become easily strained.

    If your diet restricts certain food groups, you should be taking supplements to ensure your body is getting the nutrients it needs. Look for diets like Ideal Protein that take measures to compensate for nutrient loss.

    Dehydration

    Low-carbohydrate diets like Atkins and Zone are diuretic diets; they increase water loss to drop weight quickly. If uninformed or uninstructed, it is easy to become dehydrated while following one of these diets.

    The body is made up of about 70% water. Spinal discs rely on water to maintain height and their ability to absorb shock. Dehydration reduces the fluids available to spinal discs, which could lead to speedy disc degeneration, bulging or herniation. Muscles also need fluids in order to receive and absorb electrolytes. When dehydrated, muscles begin to cramp.

    If you want to follow a low-carb diet, make sure your plan involves instructions on water intake.

    Loss Of Muscle Tone

    Some people pursuing rapid weight loss plans with low-caloric intake are instructed to avoid strenuous activities such as exercise for a while, since the body is adjusting to less fuel. Being sedentary can cause rapid loss of muscle tone. The muscles of the lower back and abdomen are meant to work together to support the upper body and the spine's alignment. As these muscles soften, posture may suffer. Various muscles throughout the back, neck and shoulders become sore and strained due to bad posture.

    Over-Exercising

    Some people's weight loss plans involve high-intensity, regular exercise to help burn fat. If you're taking in less calories and burning more of them, you may be putting your health at risk.

    Your body needs calories for energy and repair. If you're working your muscles extra hard and giving them less fuel to work with, you're more susceptible to strains. Also, not resting long enough for muscles to heal is a cause of back pain among dieters. Intense workouts should not be done on a daily basis.

    Gallstones

    Though an exact reason for this is not know, diets that are very low in fat and/or calories can disrupt the functioning of the gallbladder. This organ assists the liver in the digestion of fats. It is thought that a limited supply of fat prevents the gallbladder from contracting and releasing its bile regularly, which could lead to the development of stones as substances in the bile stagnate and harden.

    Gallstones and bile retention cause the gallbladder to inflame. Since it is located in close approximation to the muscles of the lower back and abdomen on the right side, inflammation of the organ can cause radiating pain in the back and stomach.

    Warning: If Weight Loss is Unexplained

    If you are losing weight without dieting and have back pain, this could be a sign of a serious medical condition. Cancerous spinal tumors can cause weight loss, changes in appetite, fatigue, back pain, vomiting, fever and/or neurological problems. If you are losing weight unexpectedly, seek medical attention.

    For some people, losing weight quickly is a necessity. For others, it is a choice. Achieving a healthy weight is a goal that should be pursued for the good of your back and for your quality and length of life. Be wary of crash diets. Seek out plans that pay attention to nutritional requirements and hydration. If you experience back pain on a rapid weight loss diet, it could be a sign that your body is either not getting what it needs or that you are working out too hard.

    Don't let back pain get in the way of your weight loss goal. Picking the right diet will ensure you are quickly and safely losing weight. If possible, consult with a trusted health professional about your dieting plan.