Back Pain While Studying

Many young people suffer back pain while studying. Back pain can reduce your ability to study as well as your quality of life. Whether you're reading a book, researching on the internet, typing on the computer or writing by hand, there are steps you can take to avoid back pain.

Computer Work

Computer station ergonomics are important for anyone who spends prolonged periods of time in front of a computer. Most students rely on computers both for research and writing. The following are OSHA's criteria for an ergonomic computer space:

Screen at or just below eye level
Neck in line with torso and head centered
Shoulders relaxed
Elbows close to body and supported on arm rests
Wrists and hands aligned with forearms
Adequate space allowed for keyboard and mouse
Lumbar support
Feet flat on the floor

These guidelines facilitate proper posture and, when met, reduce the neck, shoulder and back strain many people who use computers throughout the day experience. Adjustable chairs, desks and computer screen angles make these configurations possible. If you can't afford to purchase new workplace furniture, be creative. A rolled-up towel can serve as a lumbar support and your monitor or laptop screen can be propped up using books.

Reading

Maintaining proper posture while reading can be quite difficult. When sitting in a chair at a desk, we typically lay the book down on the desk or rest the bottom of the book on the desk and support it at a slight angle with our hands. Both of these book positions force your neck to crane forward and your head to drop. With the weight of the head away from the body's center line and the neck's rounded position pulling on muscles, a double strain is placed on the muscles of the neck and shoulders. Shoulders are generally stooped in this position, and, since the upper body is trying to get closer to the desk top to read the book, the lower back tends to round out, losing its natural arch. Muscles from the neck down to the hips are strained by this postural distortion. Over time, spinal discs can degenerate due to the vertebral angle changes associated with poor posture.

Encouraging proper posture while reading starts with the position of the book; this determines, in part, the position of your head, neck and so on down. The ideal position for your book is mostly upright, leaning slightly back to allow your eyes easier access to the text. Book stands are available on the market that keep books in this position for you, freeing your hands and arms. Stands may be simple or complex, ranging from $5 into the hundreds. You can also fashion a makeshift stand. Place the stand at a distance from you that allows your head to be upright and facing straight forward.

Writing

Although keyboards reign much of our writing activities, the pen is still used by many. Most repetitive injuries acquired from handwriting occur to the hand, wrist and shoulder, but the neck and back can also be affected by the posture assumed while writing. As with reading a book that is placed flat on a desk, writing on a piece of paper laying horizontally causes the neck to bend and the head to jut out, altering the position of the spine and back muscles all the way down.

The UCLA Ergonomics department recommends placing your writing pad on a slight incline of 15-25 degrees to encourage an upright position. Use a 3" binder with the bound end pointing away from you for an inexpensive slope.

Additional Tips

Whatever your study activity, it is important to take breaks and move around. The human body is designed to be active; your muscles rely on a contraction/relaxation cycle to pump waste products out and fresh blood in with its nutrients and oxygen. Try to take a two-minute break every 30-45 minutes.

Check out the "microbreak" and stretching advice at http://www.ehs.wisc.edu/occ-healthprotection-ergonomics-microbreaks-stretchingexercises.htm.

Check your posture frequently when on the computer, reading or writing. Are your muscles relaxed? Is your head centered over our torso? Are your shoulders low and loose? Is your spine elongated? Answering these questions will help you prevent painful muscle strain.

Ergonomics and body awareness will help you prevent back pain while studying. With a little creativity and knowledge, you can transform your study spot into a body-friendly space.

Heating Pads For Back Pain - When and Why to Use One

Back pain is a very common experience that most people have to deal with at some point in their lives. Heating pads are often a common recommendation for back pain but the truth is that most people do not use these pads properly or even know why they work.

Heating pads reduce back pain by blocking pain signals sent to the brain. The brain can only pay attention to so many sensory signals at once and it has preferences over which stimuli get paid attention to. Although it may not seem like it, chronic pain signals are actually the sensory signals that your brain rates as least important. As a result, when you apply heat to the affected body area, only warmth is felt even though pain signals are still being sent towards the brain.

Your brain tunes out the pain and instead pays attention to the heat. As soon as the heat stops, the heat signals fade, causing your brain to shift its focus back to the pain signals, resulting in the rapid return of back pain.

This is the reason why you can experience instant relief from a heating pad only to have the pain come back shortly after the pain stops. Pain signals are effectively blocked when the heat therapy is applied. With that said, heat can be a convenient way to reduce back pain, but there are two main problems with heating pads that you should be aware of.

First off, it is not appropriate to use heating pads if there is inflammation present, as heat increases blood flow to the area where the heat is applied. Increasing blood flow to an inflamed area can increase swelling at the inflamed area, making the current pain even worse.

Furthermore, the other main downside to using heating pads as a primary method to relieve back pain is that as I described earlier, heating pads do not actually treat the root cause of your pain but rather just mask the pain. If you want long lasting pain relief, you will ultimately need to address the underlying cause of your pain.

3 Exercises For Lower Back Pain Relief

In order to relieve lower back pain, exercises and stretches are an important component of any treatment plan. Certain exercises can also prevent lower back pain, and future injuries from occurring. Patients with lower back pain need to strengthen weak muscles and lengthen tight muscles and fascia in the back. Research has shown that with patients with lower back pain should not perform sit-up exercises because it can put additional stress on the lower back causing more damage. There are three exercises that have shown to reduce lower back pain and strengthen the muscles in your lower back.

The first stretching exercise is called "cat/camel." To perform this exercise you will start on your hands and knees. Once you are on your hands and knees you will arch your middle back like a cat arching their back and curl your head forward looking down at the ground. Once in the cat position hold this position for a count of five seconds. Next, you are going to flatten your middle back, looking up with your head and arch your lower back like a camel. Once in the camel position hold this position for a count of five seconds. Repeat both motions three times for a total of thirty seconds. Perform this exercise twice per day.

The second strengthening exercise is called "bird dog." To perform this exercise again you start on your hands and knees. Once you are on your hands and knees, the first step is to tighten your abdominals. To do this suck your navel towards your spine and brace your abdominals as if you were about to get punched in your stomach. You should be able to hold this contracted position and be able to breathe normally. Once your abdominals are tight, then you are going to extend your right arm straight out and at the same time extend your left leg straight out. Your arm and leg should be as straight as possible, all while maintaining a contracted abdominal core. While in this position hold for a count of five seconds and then return to start position. Next you will extend your left arm out straight and extend your right leg straight out. Hold this position for a count of five seconds. Repeat these two positions, six times total.

The third strengthening exercise is called a "side plank." To perform a side plank you will start out laying on the floor on your right side resting your body weight on your right forearm keeping your torso, pelvis, and legs in a straight line. Next, you are going to suck your navel towards your spine, contracting your abdominals, while still being able to breathe normal. With your abdominals contracted you are going to push up into the plank position resting your body weight on your right forearm and having your torso, pelvis and knees off the ground in a straight position. Your forearm and lower leg and feet should be the only area contacting the ground. Once in the plank position you will hold this position for 30 seconds. Next, switch sides so that you are starting on your left side and repeat the same plank procedure on the left side. Hold this position for 30 seconds. Perform this exercise for a total of two sets on both the right and left sides.

Perform these exercises three to four times per week to help relieve and prevent lower back pain. These exercise not only will help to alleviate and prevent lower back pain but they will also improve your posture and improve your overall health and fitness.

McKenzie Method For Chronic Low Back Pain

Chronic low back pain (CLBP) remains a challenging condition to manage, one that carries a significant socioeconomic burden. There are a plethora of non-surgical treatments for CLBP, which can overwhelm stakeholders such as patients, third party payers, health care providers, researchers, and policy makers. Although all involved should strive for the most effective treatment that utilizes minimal health care resources, there is often clinical uncertainty as to which treatment is most appropriate for the individual patient.

In order to better understand the state of existing literature on non-surgical treatments for CLBP, the North American Spine Society sponsored a special focus issue of The Spine Journal. This review of the McKenzie method was one of the papers featured in this issue. An executive summary of background information and pertinent findings will be presented in this review.

Terminology/History of the McKenzie Method:

in 1958, the basis for the technique was discovered accidentally, when a patient with leg symptoms inadvertently lay prone in an extended position for about 10 minutes, after which he reported to McKenzie that his leg had not felt as good for weeks
studies on the McKenzie method began in 1990, including many studies that have been done on the concept of centralization
the McKenzie method includes both an assessment and an intervention component (NOTE: commonly in general practice and research, the term "McKenzie" is incorrectly applied when referring only to the application of extension exercises)
the assessment component aims to classify the patient into one of three syndromes, and is commonly referred to as Mechanical Diagnosis and Therapy (MDT)
the main objective of the assessment is to achieve a pattern of pain response called "centralization"
Centralization: refers to the sequential and lasting abolition of distal referred symptoms, and subsequent reduction/elimination of spinal pain in response to a single direction of repeated movements or sustained postures
Directional Preference: refers to a particular direction of lumbosacral motion or sustained posture that cause symptoms to centralize, decrease, or even disappear while the individual's spinal motion simultaneously returns to normal

General Description:

The overall objective of the McKenzie method is patient self-management, which includes three important phases:
1. Educating and demonstrating to patients the benefits of positions and end range movements on their symptoms, and the aggravating effects of the opposite positions.

2. Educating patients in methods to maintain the reduction and elimination of their symptoms.

3. Educating patients how to regain full function of the lumbar spine without symptom recurrence.

Additional Points:

McKenzie noted that the value of a single direction of movement is frequently not apparent unless repeated a number of times to end range (it should be noted that often the initial attempts in a particular direction may increase symptoms)
provided that each direction of lumbar motion is tested repeatedly and to end-range, a directional preference can normally be identified
a regular McKenzie assessment includes a full medical history and physical examination, including assessment of response to repeated lumbar movements

Utilizing this information, patients can be classified into one of three mechanical syndromes proposed by McKenzie:

1. Derangement Syndrome: has the distinctive pain response of centralization with a directional preference.
2. Dysfunction Syndrome: found only in patients with chronic symptoms, characterized by intermittent pain produced only at end range in a single direction restricted movement. Unlike derangement, there is no rapid change in symptoms or ROM as a result of performing repeated motions.
3. Postural Syndrome: typically not seen in chronic LBP, is intermittent in nature, located in the midline and is provoked by sustained slouch sitting. Symptoms are typically abolished by correction of sitting posture (normally restoration of lumbar lordosis).

Management According to McKenzie Syndrome Classification:

Derangement Syndrome: aim is to rapidly centralize and eliminate all symptoms while restoring normal lumbar motion
Dysfunction Syndrome: treatment is intentionally aimed at reproducing the symptoms at end range so that the short, painful structure can be adequately lengthened in order to heal and become pain-free over time
Postural Syndrome: education is aimed at improving posture, which will remove undue physical stress from involved tissue and improve symptoms
it is important to note that each patient requires individualized exercises, and no generic prescription of exercises will suffice
for a minority of patients, generally those with chronic LBP, the end range force they can generate will be insufficient to eliminate pain - in these instances, clinicians can provide manual assistance/pressure to the movements, and even progress to spinal manipulation/mobilization in the patient's directional preference

Evidence Surrounding the McKenzie Method and Centralization:

at least six studies have demonstrated that centralization is a positive prognostic factor for LBP (i.e. those who "centralize" with a particular movement or direction have better outcomes)
in fact, a recent systematic review1 on centralization concluded that, when elicited, centralization predicts a high probability of positive treatment outcome when treatment is guided by assessment findings
two studies have demonstrated that centralization is a more important prognostic indicator than fear-avoidance and work-related issues
further, failure to change pain location on assessment (non-centralization) has been shown to be a poor prognostic indicator and a predictor of poor behavioral response to spinal pain
although seemingly evident, in the literature there is some indication that those patients with mechanical LBP that is affected by posture will respond favorably to directional exercises
in many published clinical guidelines, the interventional component of the McKenzie method has been mentioned, while the assessment component has been overlooked
two systematic reviews2,3 on the McKenzie method have been conducted - both concluding that there was limited evidence relating to chronic LBP, but also suggesting that small benefits were noted versus a variety of comparison treatments
a third systematic review4 on physical therapy-directed exercise interventions after classification by symptom response methods (included mixed duration LBP patients), concluded that exercise implemented based on patient response was significantly better than control or comparison interventions (4/5 studies investigated McKenzie method, all scored 6+ on PEDro scale indicating high quality)
studies investigating the reliability of the McKenzie assessment have produced mixed results - further studies are required
there are numerous ongoing studies on the McKenzie method, including subgroup determination in CLBP, clinical prediction rules, comparative prognostic value studies, anatomical studies, and treatment RCTs

Conclusions & Practical Application:

The McKenzie method certainly has a role to play in the overall assessment and management of low back pain. It has the potential to reliably classify patients into groups based on directional preference, which have distinctly different treatment and self-management needs. It is relatively simple, and straightforward in its approach. Considering the recent emphasis in the literature on sub-grouping LBP patients in the context of a Clinical Prediction Rule (which does include a category for directional exercise), research attention paid to the McKenzie method, MDT, and the centralization phenomenon should continue to rise. Such classification approaches can help guide clinical decision making, and improve treatment outcomes for LBP patients.

Back Pain Products to Help My Back Pain

If you suffer lower back pain, you are not on your own. Probably nearly all adults at some point in their lives will experience this condition that interferes with their work eg there is a high incidence of lumbar pain in drivers, everyday activities, sports (eg lumbar pain in golfers) or hobbies. Lower back pain or sciatica is considered the most common cause of job-related disability and the highest contributor to absenteeism in the western world. For example, it is second to headaches as the most common neurological ailment in the United States. Generally, most occurrences of lower back pain or lumbar pain subside after a few days, although some instances may take much longer to resolve or very occasionally lead to more serious conditions.

Short-term pain (Acute) generally lasts from a few days to a few weeks, and this condition tends to be mechanical in nature, the consequence of trauma to the lower back or a condition such as arthritis. Back pain from trauma may be caused by an injury sustained through sports activity, household jobs or working in the garden.

Sometimes, sudden jarring from a minor fall, or other stress on the lower back bones and tissues could be the root cause of low lumbar pain or sciatica. Symptoms of lumbar pain may range from aching muscles to shooting or sharp stabbing pain, limited flexibility and/or range of motion, or an inability to stand straight. Sometimes, pain felt in one part of the body may stem from a disorder or injury incurred in other parts of the body. Very occasionally acute low back pain syndromes could become more serious if untreated.

Definitions of what period or duration constitutes chronic back pain vary but pain that persists for over 12 weeks would generally be described as chronic.

Often the initial cause of the back problem is not known and this condition can sometimes be progressive The good news is that the vast majority of occurrences can be treated without surgery. Back pain treatments include analgesics, to reduce inflammation, to restoring proper mobility and strength to the back, by a variety of back pain products and therapies, to strategies for the avoidance of recurrence of the injury.

Usually patients suffering lumbar pain recover fully and don't incur continuing loss of functionality. It's advisable to contact your GP if there is no improvement or reduction in the back pain and inflammation after 3 days There is a plethora of exercises, medication, or therapy products and gadgets available to sufferers, designed to provide either, relief, prevention or both.

Although some of these back pain products (such as Magnatherapy or aromatherapy) would be described as 'alternative' or pseudoscientific ie they have few empirically or scientifically proven benefits, many are developed through the application of sound medical principle and theory. It's worthwhile asking your GP for recommendations on any therapies as well as making sure that the cause is not more serious

Back pain therapy devices PGAT devices

Inversion Tables

Inversion is a natural form of passive gravity assisted traction (PGAT) that uses the patient's body weight in conjunction with gravity to decompress weight-bearing joints. While the patient is rotated and suspended, gravity effectively creates a traction, resulting in a customized stretch that extends the spine, from the sacroiliac to the cervical joints of the neck, increasing the space between the vertebrae, which relieves the pressure on the discs and nerve roots. By reducing this pressure there is less interference with the spinal nerves thus reducing lower lumbar pain. Inversion is considered to be an effective therapy This is typically performed on what's called an inversion table.

The table allows you to lie on your back relaxed, in an inverted position. This position eliminates some or all gravitational compression, depending upon how far back you position your body. Inversion therapy relieves back pain, and it works even better when it's part of a well-rounded therapy plan that addresses the specific muscle imbalances you have. But even by itself it is highly effective. A recent study done at Newcastle University found that over 70% of patients who performed inversion therapy were able to cancel their scheduled back surgeries.

CPM Mobilisers

Backlife

Backlife is designed to apply a Continuous Passive Movement (CPM) to the lower back pain sufferer in a similar way to how a healthcare professional, as part of his back pain therapy, would apply in order to help relieve pressure between the vertebrae, and therefore relieve pain in the lumbar region. In order to apply CPM the user would lie on the floor bending their knees over the upper section of the machine. As the upper section moves, it gently rotates the pelvis in a circular fashion, allowing the joints to move, whilst the joints remain relaxed. The advertised benefits of Backlife for pain relief are that it reduces the stress and pressure on the lower back, restores back mobility and improves stability. In addition it reduces lumbar pain with regular use, improves posture, and reduces muscle tension.

Back in action Mobiliser

The Back in Action Mobiliser is an extremely powerful medical grade spinal joint mobilisation system, available for home or professional use for back pain relief. It's described as usually very effective at decreasing the symptoms of long term and chronic musculo-skeletal problems. The system applies very localised pressure to the muscles either side of the spine, simulating a practitioners 'thumbing technique,whilst mobilising the spine, flexing and extending the spine, freeing up stubborn vertebrae. In addition to this the mobilise provides a continuous passive motion (CPM) considered to be beneficial to health and aid healing The mobilise has been used to treat conditions such as: lumbago; prolapse /slipped disc, sciatica; scoliosis, arthritic hips, sacro-iliac dysfunction, whiplash injuries; fibromyalgia and many other disabling conditions. It is also comprehensively tested and endorsed by medics, so that it is probably the most commended back pain therapy care system available. Its most significant disadvantage is that it is made in small numbers and is expensive to buy however they are available to hire.

Backstretcher

The Backstretcher, also known as the Rolastretcher provides relief with a combination of massage and stretching movements, allowing the user to move and stretch different parts of the spine by moving up and down the frame. The rollers also provide pressure (acupressure) on the back muscles either side of the spine where dysfunctional trigger points (knots) often occur. It provides back pain sufferers the opportunity to complement their therapeutic treatment with a device, which is portable, The effectiveness of this device has been confirmed by scientific study by the University of Iowa's Spine Centre.

Flexibak

Flexibak is back support cradle that is designed to ease lower back pain problems, reduce discomfort, and promote relief, by decompression of key joints, allowing natural movement to return to the user. Flexibak, developed by 2 leading British osteopaths, is designed to encourage the lumbar and sacroiliac joints to open up, and encourage the return of natural movement as pressure on inflamed muscles is relieved.

Back cushions and wedges and Supports Cushions

Back cushions

These are custom shaped soft cushions which are tailored to the natural shape of the user's lower back and designed to offer support whilst maintaining an ergonomic and comfortable posture whilst sat on a chair or in the car, thus providing an element of relief for low back pain.

Seat wedges

Seat wedges provide lumbar pain relief in a natural passive manner. Sitting on a seat wedge has the effect of moving forward the pelvis which has the effect of causing the users spine to adopt a more ergonomically correct upright posture. Seat wedges maybe useful for lumbar pain suffering car drivers by angling their backs into more comfortable driving positions, or in sedentary workplace situations where the back pain sufferer may be adopting a suiting position for several hours, for example call centre workers. Ideal for everybody working in a sitting position, especially PC users. A variant of the seat wedge is the coccyx wedge which incorporates a cut away section to reduce or avoid pressure on the sacrum or coccyx which could be causing lower back pain or tail bone pain.

Back Braces

These aim to constrict the affected area of low back pain low afflicted area, these strap-on body braces help reduce lower back pain and help to correct poor posture.

TENS units

TENS (Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation) is the application of electric current produced by a device to stimulate the nerves for therapeutic purposes. In this case we are referring to portable stimulators used to help with back pain. The unit is usually connected to the skin using two or more electrodes or semi adhesive pads. Although the first units developed in the US for testing tolerance of chronic back pain sufferers to electrical stimulation in preparation for surgically invasive implants, many patients reported deriving relief from the TENS itself. A number of companies began manufacturing TENS units after the commercial success of the Meditronic device became known TENS is regarded as a non-invasive, safe nerve stimulation intended to reduce pain, both acute and chronic. Controversy does exist over its effectiveness in treating of chronic back pain. In 2007 a feature in the Pain Journal concluded that ENS was effective for chronic musculoskeletal pain whereas the journal Neurology advised against recommending TENS for chronic lower back pain,but other neurologists in the same journal suggested that in some patients TENS is useful. TENS units available from high street retailers Baxolve offers immediate relief for lower back pain through a combination of TENS therapy and lumbar support in one easy to use convenient belt.

Heat and cold back pain products

There is little empirical evidence that the application of hot and cold compresses actually effectively relieve back pain conditions, although the use of hot and cold compresses may provide relief by helping to reduce the lower back pain, spasms, and inflammation, in turn allowing for improved mobility for some back pain sufferers. Immediately after the trauma, the sufferer would apply a cold compress (generally ice packs or refrigerant gel) to the affected area of the lower back pain, maybe after a strain, for up to about 20 minutes a few time a day, for a couple of days to help reduce tissue inflammation. After a couple of days the back pain sufferer would then apply heat to the affected area, using a variety of methods such as heat pads, heat lamps etc for short durations. This has the effect of dilating the blood vessels which increase blood flow to the affected tissues, and encouraging the healing process. It also has the effect of relaxing the muscles similar to having a warm bath after exertion. As with any back pain treatment it's advisable to consult your GP before commencing a treatment.

Magnet therapy

Magnet therapy can be described as an alternative or pseudoscientific method of back pain treatment, using magnetic fields on the body to promote back pain relief and healing, with a perceived, though not understood positive effect on blood oxygen content. There is no scientific basis to conclude that small, static magnets can relieve pain It has its origins in Traditional Oriental Medicine (TOM) dating back some 2000 years, centered around 'Chi'or 'energy flows' around the body and instrumental in health and wellbeing, with magnetic wave therapy having associations with acupuncture or and acupressure. Although it is regarded with an element of scepticism due to seemingly physical and biological implausibility, in Eastern countries, therapeutic magnets are licensed as medical devices, and it does appear to be gaining some recognition within the US medical community, with an example of affirmative research of published in the MDBR Journal of Rheumatology. The downside to this is the difficulty associated with establishing true blind testing of magnets and associated 'placebo or Hawthorne' effects within test groups. By all means have a look at what's available but remain sceptical.

Ultrasound

Ultrasound is often used as a method of pain relief by physios and therapists in combination with other pain treatments, such as manipulation, massage, ice treatment and interferential (electrotherapy). The ultrasound device causes millions of sound waves to penetrate deep into tissue in order to promote healing of inflamed or damaged muscles, tendons and ligaments. It's claimed that ultrasound can reduce tissue inflammation by stimulating blood flow, promote healing by stimulating soft tissue, and assist in the absorption uf analgesics, and reduce pain. Again there is conflict over the effectiveness for lower back pain treatment with both positive user testimonials offset by inconclusive meta analysis. See Physical Therapy article Jul 2001 and New Zealand Journal of Physiotherapy Jul 2008

Ultralieve

Ultralieve Pro is a mains operated or portable hand held medical grade device designed for home use to help with pain and promote healing by conducting ultrasound waves into the damaged tissue. Although the device is easy its perhaps best if the user has received ultrasound treatment previously from a physio or healthcare professional, and again it's advisable to check with your GP or physio before using one to derive pain relief It should not be used as a replacement for conventional help with back pain but in conjunction with it in between sessions. Again there is conflict over the effectiveness to help with back pain with both positive user testimonials offset by inconclusive meta analysis.

Simple Back Pain Relief Tips For Pregnant Women

Pregnancy back pain is not a unique event. If you are in need of some relief for back pain due to pregnancy, know that you are not alone. In fact, more than half of pregnancies involve bouts of back pain.

It is only natural for rapidly added weight toward the front of your body to pull on your back until your muscles and joints hurt. Your whole center of gravity is moved. You either hunch forward or lean backward. Either way, the various parts of your back is put under a lot of strain. If you are fortunate, other types of back pain or back pain associated with urinary tract infections won't also strike at the same time.

Have A Talk With The Doc

The first thing you need to do is talk to your doctor. In particular, the medications you would normally take for pain relief should not be taken during pregnancy. Thus, you need your doctor to advise you on what you can do to safely treat your pain.

Take A Walk

Some women are able to get immediate relief for the pain they are feeling on their back by taking a walk. In addition, most women would benefit from back strengthening exercises under professional guidance before getting pregnant, but if you are already pregnant you will have to undertake a more measured approach to maintaining your back muscles.

Posture, Posture

Posture is a key component of all back pain treatments. However, it is much harder to learn posture once you are pregnant and out of balance. Still, you can do some simple things to promote good posture, such as sitting in chairs that promote good posture and not wearing high heels. Likewise, you should avoid all constrictive clothing that might alter your posture.

If you get your doctor's approval, you can try to use some posture support devices such as maternity belts and lumbar support pillows. The latter are especially helpful if you have a desk job and you have to sit for several hours at a time. You may also be able to do some pelvic and back exercises and stretches to build muscular support for maintaining proper posture. Maintaining strong, flexible muscles is the simplest pregnancy back pain relief method.

Take A Swim

Did you regularly go to the gym before you got pregnant? If your gym has an indoor pool, try doing water exercises. Many women find swimming and water exercises effective in relieving the pain in their back. Check if your gym offers prenatal water aerobics classes. It may be just what you need. Aside from getting relief from the pain, you will be working out your body without much risk to you and your baby.

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.

Lower Back Pain Relief - The Truth Unveiled

When back pain becomes unbearable, you desperately look for lower back pain relief measures. Having pain in the lower back has become very common nowadays. It can happen to any one irrespective of age or gender. Whether you experience mild pain or the excruciating version, you will need to take care. There are various kinds of relief measures. Most people simply start popping pills to get relief. But that is not necessarily the best measure. Pills have side effects as well. The relief that one gets form them is temporary. However, there are other natural methods that you can try instead of medications.

Methods Of Lower Back Pain Relief

If your pain is becoming unbearable, you can apply cold and warm compresses alternately. This works if the pain is due to any kind of injury. You must also rest properly and keep yourself free from any kind of stress. You can try out spas and Jacuzzis. Both these treatments have been known to provide relief. But again these are temporary relief measures and are a bit expensive. Another measure that you can try is yoga or meditation. This process is a bit slow but quite effective.

Backache relief can also be achieved with the help of simple stretching exercises. There are exercises that help strengthen the back muscles, but before embarking on such activities, you need to consult a chiropractor. Do not experiment with yourself. You can make things go from bad to worse. Some people opt for acupuncture and other natural therapies. If all of these fail, then the last option for you is surgery. But remember, it is the very last option. Try it only if all others fail.

All said and done, the best way for respite is to prevent it. Taking preventive measures is not difficult. All you need to do is to make a conscious effort towards it. If you get relief from your backache, then thank your lucky stars. Start taking care of yourself right now. You do not need to experience the pain and then start your preventive actions. The sooner you realize this truth, the better it is for you. You must have a balanced, healthy diet. You need to take care of your posture. Make sure that you get enough sleep and exercise in your daily routine. Remember that the more weight you put on, the more pressure is there on your back. So keep your weight under control. If you take care of the basic things, you will be fitter and healthier.

Yoga Causes Back Pain

It is a well known fact that Yoga is good for you, that it makes your joints more supple, increases muscle strength and is ideal for back pain sufferers. Or is it?

Many people, myself included, have tried some of the many yoga DVDs and books, hoping for some relief from back pain, only to discover that far from fixing the problem, yoga exacerbates it. Why should this be? Surely something that is purported to be so good for me should not be causing pain? I started to wonder if I was doing something wrong, not following instructions properly, and that somehow it was my fault. but have now discovered that yoga can indeed worsen certain back conditions. This was not the case, however, I was not doing anything wrong, the exercises were unsuitable and should really have come with a health warning.

Many reputable yoga teachers and practitioners of course, do issue a warning that unilateral movements can stress the sacroiliac joint. Poses such as the tree pose and warrior 3 where need you to balance on one leg are not recommended. Deep standing yoga poses also stress the sacroiliac joint. This is the joint that connects the spinal column with the pelvis. It is a joint that has little movement but can be affected by arthritis. Lower back pain is often caused by strain or inflammation of this joint and many yoga poses can either cause or exacerbate these problems.

A very popular yoga method - Ashtanga yoga - is practised by many of us who are too busy for the slower, more contemplative practises. It is vigorous and athletic and has a fast pace of movements and many yoga classes and DVDs now use the Ashtanga yoga method. I would strongly advise you to approach it with great care and stop immediately if you notice any pain or strain whilst doing the asanas. This was the method that hurt my back the most, with pain both in the waist and pelvic area.

The best sort of yoga is the more traditional gentle and slow yoga movements. These do not involve quick changes and you will find it easier to judge if the movements are doing you good or causing you pain before it is too late.

If you like the idea of yoga exercises and feel that they would suit you, then the best approach would be to do a very limited number of the easiest positions for a very short space of time - 5-10 minutes is preferable - then wait 24 hours to see how you feel. It is possible that you may have some minor muscle stiffness if you do not usually practice yoga, but it should not be anything more than this. Any pain or worsening of your back pain or any new pain means you should stop immediately. If yoga does not work for you then it doesn't work - it is as simple as that. Find something else like Pilates or swimming. Do not feel that you are missing out, there is the perfect exercise regime out there somewhere for you.

Do I still practice yoga? The answer is no. I have found my own methods of back health and although friends sometimes urge me to give it another go, I always decline. I go caving and walking and riding too, but would not risk damaging my back again practicing yoga.

Yoga, in my opinion, is for people without any back problems. It can prevent injury, but it will not cure it.

How Long Does Lower Back Pain And Spasms Last

As you grow older, you tend to develop lower back pain or lumbago. Seven out of ten people will experience it at some time in their lives The risk increases if you inflict strains and sprains through incorrect lifting or awkward movement. Exercises can also injure your lower back. If your work regularly involves lifting, twisting, bending, and reaching, you can injure your back.

Studies show that people between 19 and 45 years old suffer from disability due to back ache. After the age of 45, the condition can become severe.

Usually when you impose injury on the muscles, bones, ligaments, and joints in your back , you jeopardize your back. The painful back also shows that the tendons or discs are damaged. You can feel the discomfort anywhere on your back, in between the bottom of the ribs and the top of the legs. You may find it difficult to move around and stand upright.

Usually, the pain will last from a couple of days to a few weeks. Most of the times, it will go away after six weeks. If you endure the pain in less than three months, you then have an acute condition. Once the condition extends to over 12 weeks, the condition becomes chronic.

Most of the acute cases happen because of a trauma to the lower back or a disorder such as arthritis. Sometimes, a sports injury or a damage on the spinal bones and tissues due to accident can result in acute back pain.

When the disc is damaged, the muscles on either side of the spine are in spasm. Straining of back muscles can lead to spasm. The discomfort usually go away in one to two weeks.

If a specific disorder contribute to your lower back pain, by applying treatment on that disorder may solve the problem.

To relieve pain, you can rest in bed for a few days. But don't rest for more than two days. When in bed, lie on the back with a pillow behind the knees with your head and shoulders elevated.

You can also buy over-the-counter or prescription non steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to minimize inflammation. Muscle relaxants can also soothe muscles spasms. During the period of recuperating, wear a back pain support if you continue with any back-stressing tasks.

If you sit for a long period or lift heavy object in a job, consult an occupational therapist to suggest upper limb exercises and safer revisions on performance of such job.

Back pain can interfere your life and work. Fortunately, in most cases, it will go away on its own. If the pain persist too long, then you need to consult your doctor to diagnose your condition. You will then be given an appropriate treatment based on the underlying cause.

Get Instant Lower Back Pain Relief

If you suffer from the pain in the lower back portion, getting lower back pain relief at the earliest would be your life's greatest desire. There are various long-term remedies available to get rid of this killing pain. However, when it strikes you, your first priority would be to get immediate respite from the pain. Thereafter, if the problem recurs, you would need to consult a doctor.

So what should you do to get an immediate respite? Here are some suggestions.

1. Take rest

If the pain is due to muscle strain resulting from incorrect posture or lifting heavy objects, lying down for some time could solve the problem.

2. Medication

If the pain is severe, the quickest way to get lower back pain relief is to take medication such as ibuprophen, paracetamol or aspirin. However, you should not take these medicines frequently, as you run the risk of getting addicted to them. Instead, seek advice from a doctor if severe pain occurs often.

3. Hot compress

The hot compress works on the premise that applying heat to the affected area will help to relax the muscles and reduce the pain. Thus by placing a hot water bottle or heating pads to the lower back, you can get relief.

4. Cold compress

In the cold compress technique, ice packs are placed on the lower back for a small period of time so as to cool the area and tighten the muscles. Thereafter, when the ice pack is removed the muscles will relax automatically and bring relief.

5. Massage

Getting a massage is another soothing way of getting lower back pain relief. One does not require professional masseurs to do the massage. Even, a friend or family member can massage your back for you at home.

6. Exercise

If you have a mild or bearable backache that is caused by muscle strain, exercising could help you. Here is a simple exercise that you could do; lie on your stomach. With the support of your elbows, slowly lift yourself up, arching your back such that your hips are in contact with the floor. Remain in this position for as long as you feel comfortable. Thereafter, you can relax by lying on your back.

The remedies mentioned above will only provide temporary relief. So if backache occurs frequently, you should consult a doctor. A thorough examination would reveal the underlying cause. A proper treatment for lower back pain could then be prescribed for you.

Four Secrets to Relieving Back Pain by Releasing Hidden Painful Emotions

If you live with back pain, you are not alone. According to the National Institute of Health (NIH) "nearly everyone at some point has back pain that interferes with work, routine daily activities, or recreation".
Over twenty five years ago I strained my back while moving a piano up a staircase in student housing at the University of Utah in Salt Lake City where I was attending law school.
The pain persisted and finally, many years later, I sought the help of my first chiropractor Clyde Keller in Sandy, Utah.
Dr. Keller's adjustments gave me a lot of relief.
Still the pain returned periodically and so I returned to see Dr. Keller.

STRESS AND LOW BACK PAIN
As time passed I began to see that pain in my back and neck coincided with times of high stress in my career as a personal injury attorney. When I realized that stress was a factor and worked to reduce my stress levels my visits to the chiropractor become less frequent.
This was my first introduction to the relationship between feelings and physical malaise and pain.

SEDONA METHOD
About three years ago I was introduced to the Sedona Method which is a tool that teaches you how to release negative emotions, including those associated with physical pain. I began exploring and releasing years of accumulated negative emotion. In law school we were taught to work with our intellects and so, years after law school, I found myself virtually numb with repressed emotions.
The feelings came off in layers. I peeled them off one by one like the layers of an onion. Little by little I felt more alive.
"Most chronic back pain has a strong emotional component," says Hale Dwoskin author of the Sedona Method and Director of Training at Sedona Training Associates in Sedona, Arizona.
"When you release the stress and tension that is either causing your back pain or simply magnifying it, even long-standing pain in your back can easily dissolve," Dwoskin says. "Either way you will feel a lot better emotionally, which usually translates to profound physical relief as well."

YOU CAN HEAL YOUR LIFE
Later I read Louise Hay's "You Can Heal Your Life." This book offers a list of maladies with their probable causes and a recommended new thought pattern
For "lower back problems" it offers as the probable cause: "Fear of money. Lack of financial support." The recommended new thought pattern is "I trust the process of life. All I need is always taken care of. I am safe."
Repeating the new thought pattern provided relief not just for pain in my lower back but also for any feeling of discomfort or tension in that area.
Another principle I learned from Hay's book is that we don't let go of a problem until we let go of the need for that problem. And that applies to illness. So, I began to use an additional new thought pattern or affirmation in relation to my low back pain: "I am willing to release the need for low back pain."
Try out this simple process in area of your life. You will find that releasing the need for the problem will go a long way toward resolving it.

EMOTIONAL FREEDOM TECHNIQUE
Recently I was introduced to the emotional freedom technique (EFT). This method uses tapping on specific areas of the body to release negative emotional energy.
Though it sounded bizarre I tried it and found it to be very powerful. It even released energy or charge that did not release with the other methods.
You can download a free guide to EFT at http://www.emofree.com. There you can also find a list of practitioners.
The best overall guide to the subject of EFT is "Getting Through to Your Emotions" by Phillip and Jane Mountrose.

CONCLUSION
Try these methods. Hopefully, releasing negative feelings will lead your to better health and a pain free back.

Upper Back Pain Herbal Remedies, Causes and Symptoms

Upper back pain is also referred as thoracic pain which is felt in the area between bottom of the neck and low back. Upper body of human beings forms a thoracic cage round heart, lungs and liver. This is a sturdy structure attached with the ribs to protect delicate internal organs.

Upper back comprised of bones, muscles, ligaments and tendons to support the body in balancing head movement and maintaining overall balance of the body while doing simple activities like walking and changing postures. The upper back of human body contains seven vertebra which are separated by intervertebral discs to avoid them from rubbing each other and facilitate smooth and friction free movement. It is the most rigid and strong part of the body with limited range of motion. Muscles, ligaments and tendons are soft part of the back which makes the limited movement of the upper back possible. Muscles are attached to the bones by tendons, and ligaments are strong bands of tissues which link the bones. Muscles provide all the power necessary for the movement. Combined function of all these three parts of upper back control hyperextend, hyperflex and twisting.

Injuries, infections and overuse of muscles are the most common cause of pain in the back. Sprained muscles can cause pain during the movement as well as during resting position too as these muscles are active even when person is not making any physical movement. Ruptured or herniated disc in cervical spine is another cause of upper backache which is commonly evident. The intervertebral disc in between two vertebra bulges out due to wear and tear and other reasons to hinder the movement and cause upper backache.

Arthritis can also cause upper backache particularly osteoarthritis as it can misalign the musculoskeletal system of cervical spine in upper back to cause pain. Pinched nerves, arteries and veins are other common reasons for upper backache, in advent of such situation the pain radiates towards arms and shoulder and also causes cooling of arm. Osteoporosis can cause pain in any part of the body as it promotes loss of bone density, its effects can cause backache too. Muscle spasms are rarely seen but they can also be a cause of upper back pain, these spasms are involuntary and uncontrollable and can strain the muscles to cause pain. Fibromyalgia is another disease which can promote upper backache.

Herbs and herbal remedies are extremely safe and easy to treat upper back pain caused by any reason. Chamomile tea is excellent muscle relaxant to relieve pain and initiate movement. Burdock roots and bromelain has been used since ancient times for alleviating lower and upper back pain. Massages of eucalyptus oil can relieve the pain immediately, massage with warm mustard seed extract is also a good herbal remedy for back pain. Cayenne pepper has pain inhibiting properties and is popularly used as topical application for pain relief. Application of apple cider vinegar before going to bed is also extremely helpful in treating upper back pain.

The Cause Of Lower Back Pain And The Agony It Breeds

The cause of lower back pain is a source of loss work time, agony in daily life and many times a bevy of tears that seem never ending.

Back pain is aggravating, irritating, frustrating and a source of pain that feels like none other. At times it can take your breath away.
The lower back is created from five vertebrae, the sacrum and the coccyx and is made up of the lower one third of the spine.

The lumbar vertebrae have an incredibly tough job of supporting all the upper body weight on their hourglass-shaped rings of bone.
The tail bone is made up of the coccyx and the sacrum and is located at the tail end of the spine. The sacrum is a group of bones which are fused together.
Think about all the pressure and weight that is exerted along the back line and it is rather easy to understand why lower back pain can be a prime location of agony.

There are many different reasons for back pain.
Some of which are caused by things in your control and others by things out of your control.

For example, things you can control include things such as poor posture and obesity, while things out of your control include a traumatic accident, an infection or even an exercise or sports injury.

As you age bones began to lose their strength and muscles begin to get less flexible, both of which predispose you to back pain as you age.
There are certain back conditions that can cause lower back pain, such as sciatica. This occurs when a ruptured or herniated disc pushes on the sciatic nerve.
When the disc puts pressure on the sciatic nerve it can cause shooting pains to race down one or both of your legs.

Spinal degeneration is another back condition associated with lower back pain.

In this condition, the general wear and tear of aging on the spinal discs lead to a narrowing of the spinal cord.

Associated with aging, spinal degeneration can leave you feeling stiff as a board in the morning and even in pain after you have been standing for prolonged periods of time.
A bulging disc, also known as a ruptured disc or a herniation, is caused by the discs located in between the vertebrae coming under too much pressure. This increasing pressure ultimately results in the cartilage pressing into the nerve roots and in the most severe of cases, into the spinal canal itself. This pressure causes severe lower back pain.

Quite commonly associated with aging, spinal arthritis is causes intermittent lower back pain. It can also cause you difficulty bending or walking. You may also experience weakness and numbness in your legs.

Back pain and aging seem to go hand in hand. But the goal is to find a physician who will listen to your concerns and your physical concerns.
No one should accept back pain as a result of aging. Don't give up on back pain relief without a fight!

Low-Back Pain - Causes and Treatment

In a busy primary clinical practice, at least one patient a day comes in with a backache. It is one of the most common human ailments. Most of the problems are with the lower back; and no wonder. The lower back is the "axle" on which most of the other muscle movements base their action. By going through an approach which looks at the history of the pain and the mechanics of the lower back, the doctor can hopefully come up with a successful plan of treatment.

The history is very important, i.e., when did the pain first appear? Is it something which occurs frequently, or is this the first time? What is the nature of the pain: Sharp, dull, intermittent or constant? Does it "radiate" somewhere or does it remain in one area? What were the activities prior to the pain? Maybe you were moving railroad ties around your garden, or continuously leaning back to paint a ceiling. Maybe you've been sleeping on a roll-away bed while guests are visiting and it has a six inch mattress with a metal bar halfway across it. Do you have fever or blood in your urine (kidney stone)? By this process, your doctor tries to "sift out" the exact nature and specific history of your back pain.

The second step is to look at the back. Starting with the skin, is there an isolated rash that might be shingles? Is there an infected cyst or an area of skin infection, such as one surrounding a tick bite? Now look at the posture. Is the back too straight, as from muscle spasm? Does it curve to the left or right (scoliosis), and is this a permanent finding or is it due to muscle spasm? Does the back curve too far toward the front (lordosis), maybe due to a prominent "pot belly?" As part of this process your doctor might make other observations. Do walking and standing make the pain worse, and is it primarily movement of one leg that seems to cause the problem? When one sits in a chair, does he slouch with poor posture, or sit too straight from muscle spasm?

The next thing I do in evaluating back is imagine that I have "x-ray vision", and using the anatomic map I have in mind, go down through the back one layer at a time looking for something wrong. The outermost muscle of the back is the latissimus dorsi which goes all the way from below the "wing" bones (scapulae) to the crests of the hip bones. Weight lifters like to build these up for aesthetic purposes. It has a very broad ligament which stretches over and attaches to the entire lower back. It has a lot of cutaneous nerves which come through the muscle and can be pinched by muscle spasm. The very broad ligament is like any other ligament of the body: it can be stretched or torn causing pain and swelling. Under that is a very large fascia which is like a ligament, and is called the lumbo-dorsal fascia. Deeper muscles of the sides of the back attach to this, and the whole structure is subject to often multiple varieties of strains and tears. Finally, in the third layer are the deep muscles of the back which run parallel to and attach to the spine. They have ligamentous attachments to the lower back and are subject to strains and tears.

Underneath these layers of the back muscles are the actual spine bones. They are very large and sturdy, except perhaps in the case of an elderly person with osteoporosis. There are five lumbar vertebrae, five sacral vertebrae (which are fused), and four coccyx vertebrae. They are held together with ligaments on the front, sides, and back. There are cushions between the lumbar vertebrae called discs which have gelatinous centers and fibrous outer sheaths. Sometimes the gelatinous center ruptures out through the fibrous sheet and this is commonly referred to as a "ruptured disc." The gelatinous material can impinge on a spinal nerve coming out of the spinal cord, and cause pain down the back of the leg. This is called "sciatica." Sometimes the disc can rupture inward and actually push on the spinal cord. This may cause bowel and bladder problems and other neurological symptoms.

The doctor examines you continually looking for clues. Is the pain localized to one of the muscles of the back or to its ligamentous attachments, or does it seem to be a deeper process? In looking for a deeper process, the examination often focuses on the legs. The doctor might look to see if there is muscle atrophy due to a nerve injury up around the spine. Are there precisely located areas where the skin is numb or has decreased sensitivity? Are the reflexes brisk and equal at the knees and ankles (looking for the same nerve injury indications)? Is there weakness in pushing down with the great toe (a sign of L5-S1 nerve impingement)?

Now it's time to consider other potential causes of back pain. A kidney infection or kidney stone can cause back pain over the areas of the kidneys. Sometimes a dysfunctional gallbladder can cause back pain. As people grow older, particularly if they smoke, they can get aneurysms of the abdominal aorta, which the doctor might pick up by x-ray or listening to the mid-abdomen. The next step is to decide what tests might be needed to diagnose the back pain. X-rays cannot visualize the muscles and ligaments, so your doctor may decide how to proceed. However, if he or she suspects arthritis, a narrowed disc, a kidney stone or aortic problem, an x-ray may be correct. If the doctor thought it was your kidneys, they would order a urinalysis. If they think it is a deep process involving a disc or the spinal cord, the doctor would order either a CT or an MRI.

Let's talk about treatment. First of all, he or she might put you on a "no lifting" physical profile, with no prolonged standing or sitting. If you have a muscle strain, they might prescribe an anti-spasmodic medicine and an anti-inflammatory medicine like Ibuprofen. They might inject a localized strain with a local anesthetic, and perhaps a cortisone-like medicine. If it just happened, the doctor might tell you to apply ice packs, and gradually change to warm soaking baths after 5-7 days. If they find a deeper problem like a ruptured disc, he or she would probably refer you to an orthopedist or neurosurgical specialist, to a kidney specialist for a stone, or to a vascular surgeon for an aneurysm.

By far, most of the day-to-day back problems are tears and strains of the back muscles and ligaments. By knowing the anatomy and the mechanisms of back pain, your primary physician can successfully treat and resolve the majority of back pain problems.

7 Herbal Treatments For Lower Back Pain Relief

Lower back pain is an unbearable nuisance that can make you slow down and stop you from doing your tasks. Old folks are the common victims of lower back-pain but with the busy lifestyle people have today, anybody can experience it. Fortunately, there are many products and methods that guarantee pain relief. There are pills, supplements, pain relievers, and many more that assure instant relief.

However, if you are the type of person who doesn't like to take medicine that are packed with chemicals and artificial ingredients, its can be relieved using herbal and home remedies. If you are comfortable with this kind of pain reliefness, it is recommended that you try them. Here are some herbal treatments that can provide lower back-pain-relief:

1. Concoction of turmeric and some ginger plus garlic in a small amount of water is best use to massage the painful area. The hot aroma of ginger will seep through and relax the muscle of the affected area. This kind of pain is safe to use everyday.

2. Boiling ginger and drinking its juice is a good relief for back pain Relief and sore throat. Keeping it hot and steaming will both help. The warm water that goes to your body helps alleviate pain.

3. Keep vegetables in your diet. Avoid fatty foods as well as salty products. this pain relief can only be achieved by proper monitoring of your diet and daily activities. When in pain, it is always recommended to first try home remedies before taking all sorts of pain killers.

4. Get into soft diet. Constipation can contribute to pain. Make sure you detoxify daily by eating food rich in fiber. It is one good treatment for lower back pain relief.

5. Chamomile and licorice can be boiled together to make tea. You can drink it while it's still hot. The warm water and the natural scent these herbs produce can help tired and painful muscles to relax and be re-energized.

6. Red pepper is often avoided due to its flavor. However, if you can help it, include red pepper especially cayenne to your diet. It has an ingredient called capsaicin that is best to relax muscles. Meanwhile, there are creams that include this kind of ingredient for lower back pain relief.

7. Another effective lower back pain relief is to hydrate yourself. Make sure you drink eight to ten glasses of pure water everyday. Herbs like mint cool the body. You may also drink fresh fruit and vegetable juices.

Unless you have been involved in an accident or strenuous workout, common lower back pain can be treated with warm water and herbal treatments. Stress related back pain only needs to be relaxed and you will feel results in a few minutes.

If pains persist, make sure to make an appointment with your doctor. For herbal lower back pain relief also, you need not be consulted with a doctor, however, if you choose to take over the counter medicines, make sure you check with your doctor on what is best in relieving the pain.

The Intestine Low Back Pain Connection

The majority of Americans will experience low back pain at some point in their lives. This sometimes debilitating condition costs the country 60 BILLION dollars per year. Unfortunately, all the studies have shown that regardless of what one does for treatment, everybody winds up with the same end result, which is far from satisfactory. In other words, all treatments are relatively ineffective and are rated by which ones hurt people the least, rather than help people the most. Back surgery fails so often it even has its own insurance code (Failed Low Back Surgery). I propose that the reason better results aren't obtained is because an erroneous model is being followed, therefore failure is the most logical outcome.

There are different causes of low back pain. This article is focusing on one of the most common scenarios, which is back pain involving a disk. Sharp pain, sciatica (pain traveling down the leg), severe postural distortions, difficulty getting up, and difficulty walking are common occurrences. Many times a bulging disk is apparent on an MRI. Treatments are usually aimed at the area of the protruding disk which is most often at the L-4 or L-5 levels. Herein lays the problem. Yes, there is pain present in the lower lumbar region, but the disk is NOT the cause, it is an EFFECT. Treating effects can relieve symptoms, but it does not fix the cause and that is the primary reason why most treatments are not having good long term success.

Often, when low back pain strikes, the person was doing something as gentle as picking up a pencil or brushing their teeth. It is illogical to think that those activities would cause such pain. I suggest the body was already in a state of dysfunction and all it took was the wrong movement (usually forward) for the symptoms to manifest. Why? That is the question that should be asked. Why is that all it took to illicit such pain and why is there a visible bulging disk on imaging? Based on over twenty years of experience here is what I have found to be a model that works so well clinically that the "experts" would call the results impossible. Not only are fast, lasting results possible, they can be achieved with virtually EVERY patient who has this type of back pain.

With disk patients, the pelvis is usually in a state of rotation. This rotation causes sheer stress on the lower lumbar region and the disks. This is like pinching one end of a balloon. The other side bulges. The same thing happens to the disk. The reason for the pelvic rotation brings us to the true cause of the problem. A broad pelvic stabilizing muscle called the iliacus is neurologically weak on one side allowing for the rotation. For a muscle to be unbalanced, the nerve innervating that muscle must be irritated. In the case of the iliacus muscle, the nerve supplying it also innervates the intestines. If there is a problem in the intestines, that can trigger the nerve. Nerves are two way streets. They can be affected at the spinal level and also peripherally. The intestinal issue triggers the irritation to the nerve which then causes the shared muscles to go into dysfunction, with the resultant affect of pelvic rotation. In my opinion, the omission of the pelvic rotation by most treatments is the reason they fail to bring about lasting positive changes. It is worth noting that rarely is the disk actually pinching the nerve. However, the pressure on the disk causes degenerative changes and an inflammatory process is initiated that produces chemicals that ignite pain.

The most affective treatment is the one that specifically matches the needs of the individual. Common intestinal triggers are too much bad bacteria, yeast and fungal issues, parasites, a lack of good bacteria, constipation, etc. If this intestinal issue is dealt with appropriately, and natural anti-inflammatories are given (proteolytic enzymes like bromelain work well), pain relief will be experienced in short order. Structural and neurological corrections are an important co-factor. Gentle therapies focusing on involved nerve roots and muscles aid the healing dramatically. I personally use an adjusting instrument, percussion, cold laser, and muscle balancing techniques in my office. It is not uncommon to observe results in days that the text books say takes six months or longer to obtain. When the intestinal component is treated to completion, the results will be permanent.

How Do You Know the Difference Between Arthritis Back Pain and Disc-Related Back Pain?

Many people believe that getting arthritis and back pain as you get older is just a normal part of life. However, you should know that you don't have to resign yourself to a life filled with back pain. It is important to understand the difference between back pain caused by arthritis and back pain that has been triggered by a disc-related issue.

The Differences in Arthritis and Disc Problems

For the most part, back pain caused by arthritis usually causes a feeling of pain in the morning. In fact, you may experience extreme stiffness in the morning if your back pain is caused by arthritis. Normally, arthritis-related back pain lessens as the day goes on and the person starts moving around more.

On the other hand, if you have a disc problem in your back, you usually experience pain that causes a radiation of pain into the shoulder or arm, or even the back of the leg or calf.

Generally speaking, arthritis is defined as the gradual breakdown or deterioration of the joint spaces in your musculoskeletal system. In most people, arthritis causes a variety of symptoms including pain, numbness, burning, cramping, inflammation and can even cause a stabbing pain in the extremities. There are two different kinds of arthritis called osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

What is a Herniated Disc?

A herniated disc is actually a spine condition which happens when the gel-like center of the disc ruptures through a weak area into the tough outer wall. Many times, lower back or leg pain happens when the disc material touches or compresses one of the nearby spinal nerves. It's very important to be conservative in the approach to treating lower back pain as about 80% of people will improve within six weeks under nonsurgical treatment.

If you have herniated disc, the symptoms will vary depending upon the location of the herniation. You may feel pain that radiates down your lower back area into your legs. You might even feel like an electric shock when you stand, sit or walk. Activity will likely increase the pain which is one of the differentiating points between a herniated desk and arthritis. Sometimes, you may also experience numbness and tingling associated with herniated disc.

What Should You Do When You Feel This Back Pain?

Whether you believe your pain to be caused from arthritis or a disc herniation, it's very important to get a complete exam and diagnostic testing in order to confirm your theory. A pain management specialist trained in these technologies can pinpoint the exact source of the issue so the treatment options can be tailored to the exact problem.

Instead of simply guessing that you have arthritis or a herniated disc, it's critical to find out the exact source of the pain so that your pain management specialist can customize a treatment plan for you. By getting the problem diagnosed early, you have the best chance at a complete recovery.

With today's modern treatment methods there is no need to live every day with your aching back. Be proactive and research your problem and the pain specialists in your area that are experienced with conditions like yours. Besides home remedies, there are non-invasive methods are available today so you may be able to avoid dangerous drugs or the risks of surgery.

LBP - Causes of Low Back Pain in Females - Symptoms, Treatment and Relief Options - Lumbar Support

Are you a women that is suffering from lower back pain?

Is it becoming more and more of a problem?

1.) Introduction

It has been stated that 80-90 % of Americans suffer from lower back pain at some point in their lives. Half of these individuals will have more than one instance of low back discomfort. Lower back pain (LBP) is not actually a specific diagnosis, but rather a symptom of other things that can be going on in your lumbar spine area.

This article will touch upon many common causes of low back pain and it will end with a cost effective treatment option, that can honestly save you time and money. - We have studied lower back pain and we are here to help you get relief.

2.) Interesting Points About Back Pain

* Lower back problems have been said to be second only to the average cold, as a reason why people have missed work. It is also one of the major reasons why people visit their physician's office or find their way into an emergency room. * For nine out of ever ten people, nerve root irritation can reduce naturally within 2 months time. This is if you do not redisturb the cause of the nerve root problem.

3.) Back Pain Causes

It is important to note that back discomfort is a symptom. It is not a diagnosis, in and of itself. Common reasons why people have back pain are usually due to herniated discs, muscle strains, ligament sprains or degenerative issues like degenerative disc disease or arthritis. These are just some of the reasons why you may be suffering from lower back pain.

4.) A Treatment Option That Can Honestly Work!

Sometimes people take over the counter pain medication to help reduce their lower back discomfort (speak with your physician about taking any medications). This may mask the pain, but if you have an issue that is going on, you should think about treating the problem. - One of the best ways to help reduce back discomfort and effectively treat painful lumbar aliments is to use a low profile, light weight back support. Your brace specialist can fill you in on what quality options are available to you.

Back supports can help increase intercavitary pressure. This is biomechanical principle of quality lower back supports and this can effectively unload stressed elements of a hurting back. These braces can also be concealed easily with the use of a t-shirt as well. So cosmetic problems are not really an issue. Lower back supports are also effective because they can limit painful movements of your back and this can help to promote healing of your lumbar spine pain. There are many other reasons why they are effective, and if you are interested in helping to reduce your back discomfort, you should look into getting one today. Many physicians recommend back braces to their patient because they are aware of the comfort and other beneficial elements of these supports.

*This is health information. We believe in the benefits of lower back supports, but you should always talk to your physician about medical advice pertaining to your particular situation.

Here's What I Found About Lower Back Pain Relief

You should realize that the search for lower back pain and consequently lower back pain relief is not restricted to you alone. I am going to share with you my experience and how I dealt with it. I never have to bother with this affliction again. This is one of the common afflictions among many of us these days.We often wake up feeling a lot of pain at our lower back. That definitely is not a good way to start our day. With that pain, we go off to work, sit continuously in one place all day long, and continuously lift heavy objects that add more to the pain. Our effectiveness at work will be determined largely by all of these factors. Some people have reportedly lost their job as a result of low productivity arising from this which was not effectively tackled.

I discovered lower back pain relief after lots of research. The pain was so excruciating that I was ready to try out anything my friends recommended. Not until I met a friend who informed to check my bed. My bed? Yes. Where you sleep play a significant role in keeping lower back pain at bay and giving you the desired relief. I head over to the market to search for a good mattress that could help alleviate my problem.

I eventually choose one of those memory foam mattresses after going through all the mattresses available in the market. The mattress is made up of a variety of modern materials such as memory foam and latex. I can reliably inform you that after using it for several months, I have not wake up to feel any excruciating pain again. I usually advice many of my friends searching for lower back pain relief to go for it. I told them to do away with any other relief that often dig a hole in the pocket and buy one of the memory foam mattresses out there. Many of them came back to thank me for the advice.

If you have not got any relief after trying other lower back pain relief such as heat pack, support braces and other temporary medications, I advise you to take a look at where you are sleeping. Some changes may be needed.

But if it is not where you are sleeping that is the cause of the problem, then I urge you to visit a medical doctor who can help you locate the source. These medical professionals are in the best position to advise you on what you should do to curb it.

Tips to Fix a Pinched Nerve in the Lower Back Pain - Relief Options - Special Report

Do you wonder if you might have pinched a nerve in your lower back?

Do you want to know what you can do about this back problem?

1.) Introduction

A pinched nerve in your lower back can cause you a lot of pain. Maybe you know this all to well by now. Is it interfering with your ability to go about your day and live a normal life? You can relieve your symptoms and find relief from the pain and suffering and without surgery, too.

To begin, you should know exactly what a pinched nerve is. In regards to the lower back, a pinched nerve identifies the fusion of nerves that extend out of the lower spine. As a result of the compression, in addition to lower pack pain, a person may experience numbness, tingling, and soreness in the affected areas.

2.) Reasons & Symptoms

Pinched nerves can be caused by a variety of reasons. Among those which are generally associated with the condition are osteoarthritis, earlier accidents or injuries, trauma, obesity, stress, the added weight brought on by pregnancy, strenuous activities, and improper posture.

The sciatic nerve is the widest and longest nerve in the human body. It extends from the lower back to the toes, although it changes names along the way. When it is pinched, it can create the following painful symptoms:

Aggravating muscle contractions
Stinging or tingling originating in the lower back and extends all the way down to the toes
Reduced feeling in the feet and ankles
Bursts of pain throughout areas impacted by the sciatic nerve

Typically a pinched nerve affecting the lower back is diagnosed by a doctor after various medical tests which may include x-rays, MRIs, nerve tests, and CT scans.

3.) Fixing the Pinched Nerve in the Lower Back

Quite a few options exist for fixing a pinched nerve in the lower back. The solution prescribed by most physicians is usually based on the cause of the irritation. While surgery is always a last resort because of the complexity involved and the low success rate, there are other options for pain relief like alternating between hot and cold compresses and avoiding positions which cause pain.

Still, the most highly effective, non-surgical method of obtaining pain relief is a back brace. By wearing a brace, an individual with a pinched nerve can alleviate discomfort by restricting the motion of the spine while keeping it in a straight line.

Brace supports have changed over the years; they are no longer rigid, bulky girdles that draw attention to a person's imperfection. These days, back braces are invisibly worn under a blouse or shirt; all the while providing unseen but much needed respite from pain.

Note: Medical advice on back supports should be provided to you by your local, licensed orthotist.

Low Back Pain Exercises - Superstitions About The Amazing Back Pain Cure Exposed

Everybody has experienced back pain at least once in their lives, but long time sufferers will know just how taxing it can be not only to the body, but also to one's emotions and finances. It makes simple tasks like lifting, bending, and carrying things difficult. In severe cases, it can even necessitate bed rest, which can compromise productivity, and eventually affect one's quality of life.

While there are many available treatments for lumbar ache, they each have their own drawbacks. For instance, regular physical therapies can be expensive and take too much of one's time, and use of analgesics may in the long run foster dependence. One treatment modality gaining popularity nowadays is the practice of low back pain exercises.

Not Just for Symptom Alleviation
The major advantage of this treatment system is its focus not only on alleviation, but also on the prevention of symptoms. When trunk muscles and its supporting ligaments are in tiptop shape, the spinal cord is afforded maximum protection; there is more support for range of movement; and proper posture will be easier to maintain. Protection of the spinal cord is very important as spinal nerve damage and nerve degeneration are two main causes of lumbar soreness.

In his instructional video, Tom Nicholson explains and demonstrates proper posture, effective body mechanics, and various low back pain exercises. These require no sophisticated equipment, and can be performed even in the comfort of one's home, significantly cutting back on one's medical expenses. Viewers are also given pointers for making sound health assessments, and tips for maximizing their mobility and comfort.

For Sufferers and Non-sufferers
Performing back exercises is recommended whether or not one is experiencing symptoms. As one grows older, the body undergoes normal degenerative changes. The stooping that occurs with old age is the effect of a decrease in bone density and muscle mass. Strengthening the spine's supporting muscles therefore can prevent the development of posture problems that come naturally with age. This is what makes the treatment system especially helpful: even when one is free from lumbar aches, he or she can still continue with the program to prevent recurrence in the future. It is a treatment and preventive measure in one, how great is that?

Long time sufferers should definitely try these routines, although it may not work well with everyone. People with severe symptoms may find some work out routines difficult to do, and people with no patience for regular exercise may not benefit much from the program. As with any other work out program, the rewards of low back pain exercises can only be felt if they are done regularly.

Try It Out
Back pain is a very subjective experience - its character, threshold, and even its measures of alleviation varying from one person to another. For those looking into an alternative means for back problem management, Tom Nicholson's low back pain exercise system is worth a try. It is inexpensive, readily available on the internet, and even has a money back guarantee. Sometimes the most effective treatments are neither the most expensive nor customary.

Can Alcohol Help Your Back Pain?

A lot of people report that they feel more relaxed or numb once the "buzz" of a few drinks hits their system. But does this mean that alcohol can help relieve back pain? Others report that they actually experience an increase in back pain when they enjoy an alcoholic beverage. What's really going on here?

To be honest, it really depends on what the cause of your back pain is. If the pain is due to a tense or contracted muscle that is putting pressure on the Sciatic nerve, for example, drinking alcohol may actually help.

For example, I used to suffer from Piriformis syndrome, which is a tense muscle in the pelvis that cause pain by crushing the Sciatic nerve. I found that an occasional drink would actually help to relax the muscles in my body and release the tension in my Pirifomris.

Now, this isn't an excuse to abuse alcohol. If you are suffering from pain caused by muscle tension, then you need to address this by naturally loosening the muscles and releasing the tension. The best way to do this is by stretching out the muscles and helping them to relax.

Relying on alcohol to treat back pain in this way is like using painkillers to treat back pain. You don't really deal with the underlying problem, you are just temporarily getting rid of the pain. Never use alcohol as a "solution" to your back pain problem.

However, some people also complain of back pain that occurs when they drink alcohol.

Alcohol can also cause inflammation in your body too, which in turn can promote back pain. In this way, alcohol can be a double edged sword. On one hand, it can help to relax muscles, but at the same time, it may promote inflammation.

The story doesn't end there though.

Now, I'm not a medical professional, so you should probably talk to your doctor about this. However, I do know that people can develop kidney stones which can cause pain like this.

Your kidneys are located in your lower torso and pain in your kidneys can easily be mistaken for a general pain in your back.

Alcohol acts as a diuretic, which means that it makes you have to urinate. When this happens, your kidneys produce more urine. But if there is an obstruction in your kidneys such as a kidney stone that might interfere with the production of urine, then you could experience pain.

If this is the cause of your pain, then other fluids such as coffee should also cause back pain to present itself.

There could be other causes to your pain as well. It can be difficult to diagnose the cause of back pain without knowing more about you and your lifestyle and overall health. It is important to seek the advice of your doctor to get a better understanding about what is behind the pain. Again, alcohol should not be used as a way to treat pain or to cope with any sort of health condition you may be suffering from.

Treat, Relieve, Cure Back Pain Now

Ouch! Your back hurts. You'll go to a doctor if it doesn't let up soon, but meanwhile, what can you do to treat back pain? Better yet, since you don't want to simply treat it, what can you to relieve back pain? Wait a minute. What can you do to cure back pain - now?!

While back pain can be excruciating, it is common. It is one of the leading reasons people visit doctors each year. Add those who don't want to visit a doctor, and the numbers are staggering.

Question is: how can you truly cure back pain?

You Don't Want to Hear This!

My own doctor told me last week that the best way to cure back pain is to begin, and consistently maintain, regular exercises to strengthen core muscles.

After telling me that, he gave a short laugh, and added, "But most people don't want to hear that."

How about you? If my doctor is right, you probably don't want to hear that you can cure back pain with regular exercise. You would rather hear that...

* a new chair will cure back pain while you watch TV

* a new prescription drug will cure back pain with daily doses

* a month in bed (paid sick leave) will cure back pain

* you should not exercise at all

I'm sorry, but what you and I really need is exercise that specifically targets the core muscle groups that support our backs.

Exercises to Cure Back Pain

The Texas Back Institute tells us that research shows more than two days of inactivity is harmful when you have back pain. Lying in a bed or reclining chair will only cause your muscles to weaken and become less flexible. As you move around, exercise improves blood flow to discs, joints, and muscles. Exercise relaxes spasms that are causing you pain, and speeds healing.

You need to get up and get gentle exercise if you expect to cure back pain.

The following daily routine will go far toward helping you actually cure back pain and keep it from recurring.

* Morning Rising: Begin your day by getting out of bed with this exercise. Roll on one side. Gently swing your legs to the floor while pushing up with your arms. When you are in a sitting position, stand up. This exercise will remind you every morning of your desire to cure back pain forever.

* Warm-up: Warm up your back before beginning exercises or rushing around getting ready for your day. Bend at the waist, and let your arms hang toward the floor. Do not stretch or bounce. Simply bend and hang, feeling your back lengthen. Then reach slowly for the ceiling, gently stretching upward. A brief, relaxed walk will finish your warm-up.

* Six Exercises:

1. Slippery Heels - Lie on your back on the floor, legs straight. Slowly slide your left heel toward your body, knee bent upward. Then slide the heel back away from your body until your leg is straight again. Repeat 10 times for each leg.

2. Slippery Lap - Stand with your back touching a wall, feet 12" from the wall. Tighten abdominal muscles, hold, and slowly bend both knees, sliding downward until you form a lap. Hold 30 seconds, and slowly slide up again. Repeat 10 times.

3. High Heels - Stand facing a wall, about 18" away. Balance your weight evenly on both feet. Slowly lift up only your heels - as though wearing high heel shoes. Then lower your heels slowly back to the floor. Repeat 10 times for each foot.

4. High Legs - Lie on your back, left leg straight, right leg at right angle. Tighten abdominal muscles, and slowly lift straight leg 6 to 12 inches, keeping it straight. Hold 5 seconds, and slowly lower. Repeat 10 times for each leg.

5. Reverse High Legs - Do "high legs" while lying on your stomach on the floor. Hold for 10 seconds, and slowly lower the leg to the floor. Repeat 5 times for each leg.

6. Brake Pedals - Lie on your back on the floor, legs straight. Push toes away as though pushing on 2 brake pedals. Pull the toes back toward your body, as though letting up on the brake pedals. Work your brake pedals up and down. Repeat 10 times.

* Cool-down: Cool down before going on with your day. A brief, relaxed walk is all you need.

Additional Secrets to Cure Back Pain

You can cure back pain by adding these additional secrets to your exercise program. First of all, remember that you should see your health care provider to learn exactly what type of back pain you have, and whether home care is sufficient.

With your physician's approval, add these steps to cure back pain.

* If you must sit at a computer all day, sit with feet flat on the floor, or use a footrest to relieve back strain and cure back pain.

* Get up and move around for at least 5 minutes out of every hour.

* When standing for extended periods, shift your weight regularly.

* Wear shoes that have soft soles and low heels, preferably no more than 1.5 inches and square in shape. Place inserts in your shoes to correct any incorrect posture.

* Lose weight if you are too heavy. You can cure back pain more quickly if your muscles have less work to do.

* Avoid sitting on a thick billfold. A lot of money might buy back surgery, but you won't cure back pain by sitting on it or a stack of credit cards and photos.

* Bend at the knees, not at the waist, when lifting something heavy.

* When your doctor says you are ready, begin a program of aerobic exercise to strengthen those core muscles in your back and abdomen. Choose from activities such as jogging, cycling, or swimming.

Cure Back Pain with Mind over Matter

Recent research indicates that mental gymnastics can do much to cure back pain. Although my doctor may not want to hear this, it appears to be true. Published in the journal BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders, the study found that training the mind was just as effective as using more physical methods to deal with chronic lower back pain.

The secret is to consciously realize that pain does not necessarily mean harm. Learn about your pain and what causes it, allowing your brain to deal with the perceived pain.

As long as you try to avoid it, you cannot cure back pain. Talk to your physician and create an exercise program that is right for you and your pain.

Facet Injections, Also Called Facet Blocks, Can Relieve Back Pain From Facet Arthritis

Back pain afflicts ninety percent of Americans at some point. The vast majority of back pain, 90%, will resolve within six to twelve weeks regardless of the treatment. What about the other ten percent?

If the back pain is being generated from facet arthritis, also called facet syndrome, the back pain can become chronic and be extremely disabling to patients.. It can wax and wane or remain present like a pebble in a person's shoe. The main issue with arthritis is there is no treatment available which can reverse it. One can only hope to try and contain it with pain relief options that alleviate the symptoms, such as facet injections.

Facet joints allow for spinal movement and connect the bones of the spine, called vertebrae. The lumbar portion of the spine contains 5 vertebrae and is located in the low back.

Each is roughly the size of a thumbnail. Lumbar facet joints are named for the spinal vertebrae they connect and the side they are found on the spine. The right L4-5 joint, for example, joins the 4th and 5th lumbar vertebrae on the right side.

In the vast majority of cases, pain coming from the facet joint causes back pain and does not radiate into the legs.. Pain emanating from the lumbar facet joints results from injury to either the cartilage inside the joint or to the ligaments surrounding the facet joints.. This can result from degenerative arthritis or post traumatic injury. Pain emanating from an injured joint may range from simple muscle tension to more severe disabling pain. Depending on which of the facet joints is affected, back pain may radiate down to the one's buttocks from the affected joint.

Common tests like x-rays or MRI's may not show if a joint is the cause of your pain.

One of the treatment options for low back pain from facet arthritis is injections, also known as facet blocks. Pain doctors perform the blocks commonly for back pain from facet syndrome. Facet blocks can give pain relief for weeks to months, and are performed as an outpatient procedure..

Facet injections are done with appropriate numbing medication. The blocks can be both therapeutic and diagnostic for neck or back pain. A facet joint injection can denote whether the joints are the source of pain and can help alleviate the pain and inflammation.

Fluoroscopy, a real time x-ray, is typically utilized to ensure accurate needle placement into the facet joint and usually dye in then place to make sure the needle is in the appropriate joint.

Once the needle is appropriately placed, the doctor will inject numbing medicine typically along with a corticosteroid. The numbing medicine wears off within a day, and then the steroid medication begins to work in a few days. The pain may be alleviated for days, weeks, or even months, or it may not work at all. Depending on the location of pain, one or more injections may be administered. Pain relief that occurs after the injection highly suggests that the facet joint (s) injected were the cause of the pain.

Pain relief occurs in three to ten days as the steroid medication reduces inflammation. As many as three injections per year may be given per facet joint.