Q&A: 8 common myths about back pain
Back pain is more common than homeownership in the U.S. While about 65% of adults own a home, nearly 80% of adults will have back pain at some point. Despite how common this type of pain is, myths about it persist.
Walking 100 minutes per day may help lower risk of chronic back pain
For many people, low back pain is chronic, meaning it is constant for at least three months. There are several risk factors for chronic low back pain, such as not getting enough physical activity. A new study found that increasing the length of time and intensity of one’s walks may help lower the risk of experiencing chronic low back pain.
Breaking the silence about men breaking bones
Weak bones can have deadly consequences. Women often get bone density tests to screen for osteoporosis, yet many men don't even realize they are at risk until they suffer a major fracture.
I'm a spine doctor. Here's how I take care of my back
Back pain affects as many as 4 out of 5 Americans, and relief can be elusive. That's because it may be caused by multiple overlapping factors that cannot always be visualized on a scan. On the flipside, the scan of a healthy individual may be riddled with spinal abnormalities, none of which require treatment.
Why do some people get a curved back as they age and what can be done to avoid it?
As we age, it's common to notice posture changes: shoulders rounding, head leaning forward, back starting to curve. You might associate this with older adults and wonder: will this happen to me? Can I prevent it?
What to know about the sciatic nerve and vitamin deficiency
Certain nutrient deficiencies, including vitamin B12, vitamin D, and magnesium deficiency, may contribute to or worsen sciatic nerve pain.
Electrical stimulation offers hope for treating spinal injuries
A grid of electrodes placed on the backs of study participants delivered enough low-voltage electrical stimulation through the skin to change the short-term function of spinal cord neurons, a study led by UT Southwestern Medical Center researchers showed. Their findings, published in the Journal of Neural Engineering, could lead to new approaches to treat pain, spasticity, and paralysis in patients, including those with spinal cord injuries and stroke, the authors said.
What to know about lower back problems when running
Running is not typically related to higher-than-usual incidences of lower back pain. However, excessive running without sufficient recovery time, improper running form, and other factors may contribute to lower back problems.
Neck strength testing should be included in concussion prevention
Griffith University researchers have found weaker neck strength is a risk factor for concussion and higher head impacts in rugby league, rugby union, and soccer athletes.
How to strengthen the lower back
Strengthening and stretching exercises for the lower back can help stabilize the lower spine and support the upper body. Examples include the plank and knee-to-chest stretches.