Chronic lower back pain is one of the three most disabling conditions in the developed world, the British researchers report. And, it can be expensive to treat.

“Back pain is a physical health problem, not a psychological problem,” said study co-author Zara Hansen, a physiotherapist and cognitive behavioral therapist at the University of Warwick in Coventry, England. “The intervention uses a psychological model to understand how we can manage back pain better, but it is not psychotherapy,”

In the study, cognitive behavioral therapy helped people change their thinking about their back pain and how they managed it, Hansen said.

“This is a relatively new approach to helping people manage long-term health conditions. People with persistent back pain are at risk of developing anxiety and depression, but this intervention did not aim to treat anxiety and depression,” she said.

For the study, published in the Feb. 26 online edition of The Lancet, Hansen’s team randomly assigned 701 patients with low back pain to therapy in addition to standard treatment or to standard treatment alone. The standard treatment included guidance on staying active and the best use of pain medication. The others got up to six sessions of group therapy. All participants had their back pain measured at the start of the study and one year later.

At one year, those who had CBT showed a 2.4 point improvement on one disability test and a 13.8 percent improvement on the other. Those who had no therapy saw a 1.1 point improvement on the one score and a 5.4 percent improvement on the other, the researchers found.

Cognitive behavioral therapy for health problems is based on a psychological model, Hansen said.

“The model explains that the way that we think about our health problems will determine how we behave or, put another way, how we manage them,” Hansen said. “If we have unhelpful ways of thinking about back pain, we’ll behave or manage it in unhelpful ways. A cognitive behavioral intervention targets the thoughts or behaviors directly.”

“For example, if I have persistent back pain and I think that I should avoid anything that brings on pain in case I am damaging myself, then I will slowly become less and less active, less and less fit, and then the stiffness and weakness that comes with using my back less will make my back feel worse,” Hansen said.

Therapy, offered individually or in a group setting, helps patients identify this vicious cycle. The aim is to understand that pain doesn’t usually signify ongoing damage and that by gradually increasing activity they can relieve the stiffness and weakness, Hansen said. “The main aim of the intervention is to help people get back to doing enjoyable and/or rewarding activities that they may have stopped or avoided due to back pain,” she said.

Back pain is increasingly common, said Dr. Laxmaiah Manchikanti, medical director of the Pain Management Center of Paducah, Ky. “However, it can be managed effectively for a significant proportion of patients in a primary-care setting with (therapy) when it is available.”

Therapy costs about half of other treatments, such as acupuncture, the researchers noted. But as a treatment for back pain, it is not usually covered by health insurance in the United States.

- above article written by Steven Reinberg HealthDay Reporter

If you’re suffering from chronic lower back pain in mid-Michigan, visit Colestock Family Chiropractic in Eaton Rapids for gentle chiropractic adjustments using the Activator Method Technique.

If the winter cold has your muscles all knotted up, stop in or give Sharilynn a call and let her rub those tight muscle aches and pains away.

Discs are soft cushions found between the vertebrae that make up the spinal column (your backbone). In the middle of your spinal column is the spinal canal, a hollow space that contains the spinal cord. The nerves that supply your arms, legs, and torso come from the spinal cord.

The nerves from your neck supply your arms and hands, and the nerves from your lower back supply the butt and legs. The discs between the vertebrae allow your back to move freely and act like shock absorbers.

Your disc in your back is made up of two main sections. The outer part (the annulus) is made up of tough cartilage that is comprised of series of rings. The center of the disc is a jelly-like substance called the nucleus pulposus. A disc herniates or ruptures when part of the jelly center pushes through the outer wall of the disc into the spinal canal, and puts pressure on the nerves. A disc bulge is when the jelly substance pushes the outer wall but doesn’t completely go through the wall.

What do you feel?

Low back pain in mid-Michigan will affect four out of five people during their lifetime. The most common symptom of a herniated disc and probably the most painful is “sciatica”. Sciatica is best described as a sharp, often shooting pain that begins in the buttocks and goes down the back of one leg. This is most often caused by pressure on your sciatic nerve that exits the spinal cord.

Other symptoms include:

• Weakness in one leg or both legs

• Numbness and tingling in one leg (pins & needles)

• A burning pain centered in the low back

• Loss of bladder or bowel control (seek medical attention immediately)

• Back pain with gradually increasing leg pain. (If you have weakness in both legs. Seek immediate attention.)

Your medical history is key to a proper diagnosis. A physical examination can usually determine which nerve roots are affected (and how seriously). A simple x-ray may show evidence of disc or degenerative spine changes. An MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) is usually the best option (most expensive) to determine which of your disc has herniated.

Discs in your back are primarily composed of water. As we become older (after the age of 30), the water content decreases, so your discs begin to shrink and lose their shape. When your disc becomes smaller, the space between your vertebrae decreases and becomes narrower. Also, as your disc loses water content the disc itself becomes less flexible.

While aging, excess weight, improper lifting and the decrease in water in the discs all contribute to the breaking down of the discs in your back, the primary cause of a herniation or bulge is uneven compression and torsion that’s placed on the discs.

This uneven pressure is caused by imbalances in muscles that pull the spine out of its normal position and then your body is forced to function in what is referred to as a physical dysfunction. Every human being develops these dysfunctions over time and eventually they cause enough damage to create pain.

When it comes to treating your herniated disc, there are traditional treatments such as ice/heat, ultrasound, electrical stimulation, cortisone injections, anti-inflammatory medications and even surgery. While these may deliver some relief, it will usually be temporary, if at all.

But the major problem with these traditional treatments is that they can’t fix or heal a herniated disc as they do not address the actual cause of the problem. For example, even if you were to have a surgery and get some back pain relief, the fact is the dysfunctions that caused the disc to herniated in the first place are still there and if not addressed, they will continue to place uneven pressure and strain on the discs and sooner or later you will likely have another problem with that disc, or others.

Without identifying and addressing the underlying cause of the problem, which is the physical dysfunctions caused by imbalances in muscles, you will likely continue to suffer with this condition and the continuous flare ups for years.

So, unless you have a doctor or physical therapist that does spend some time and focus on identifying the physical dysfunctions that are responsible for the condition, most people will just end up jumping from one useless traditional treatment to the next and suffer for months or years unnecessarily.

If you have been diagnosed with a herniated disc, or are wondering if your back pain may be caused by a herniated disc, either way you must identify and address the physical dysfunctions beforehand that are causing your pain as part of your recovery.

Colestock Family Chiropractic specializes in using the Activator Method Technique to pinpoint those problem areas. It’s a very targeted and painless approach to back pain relief. Stop in our give us a call to schedule an appointment at 517.663.8825.

- tight muscles (especially your Piriformis muscle)
- weak muscles
- joint movement
- pelvic balance.

The tight muscles need to be stretched. Stretching effectively is the KEY, you need to know what to stretch, but knowing how and when to stretch are more important.

The goal of stretching is to ease muscles, stretching effectively means you can do this almost overnight. The main muscles to target are your Hip Flexors, Hamstrings and especially your Piriformis. But please do not stretch until you complete the first step below.

You must strengthen weak muscles, however before you exercise the muscle, you need to improve the nerve and blood supply to the muscles. If the supply is poor, exercise will not strengthen the muscle enough to remove pain.

A good nerve and blood supply also allows the muscle to maintain it’s structural support, which is needed for long term results to avoid low back pain.

Joints need to move freely, and you can learn some simple self adjusting techniques to accomplish this. Your pelvis is the most important factor. If your pelvis is out of balance, joints will slow in motion, muscles will tire and tighten. It is your pelvis that is the vital area to target to relieve sciatica pain.

Your sciatica pain relief specialist in Mid Michigan is Colestock Family Chiropractic in the Eaton Rapids community utilizing the Activator Method Technique. You can click on the “about us” link over in the right column or at the top for more information on hours and payment policies.

That’s no exaggeration.

If your lower back hurts when sneezing, then the chances are the problem will be related to nerves as they emerge from a previous back injury or structural abnormality. The discs, which separate each of the backbones or vertebrae, can push out or prolapse, putting pressure on the spinal cord. Any sudden movement can cause pain, thus the lower back hurts when sneezing. Kind of like a really bad toothache that occurs when you bite down wrong and touch the nerve sending you into screaming mode.

Coughing and sneezing can take a toll on your sore low back. Rapid trunk flexion and forceful abdominal pressure, which are common during a violent coughing spell or sneeze, can actually herniate a weakened spinal disc. Positioning your back before you cough or sneeze may protect your back from pain and further injury.

Just before you cough or sneeze, lean back slightly while placing one hand behind your back for support. At the very moment you cough or sneeze, bend your knees slightly. Another way is to place your back against a wall or door jamb as a way to keep your back straight so it doesn’t lurch forward when you cough or sneeze. And sneeze or cough “upward” which relieves pressure on your lower spine and back.

A forceful cough or sneeze can cause low back pain to flare up. It can also put a weakened disc at risk of injury. Take a few seconds to position your back before coughing or sneezing.

Follow the advice of your doctor and therapist for best results.

The pain may be coming from a muscle spasm or strain that’s putting pressure on the nerve, so you can try relaxing your muscles. Try, for example:

* alternating between heat and ice on the affected area: switch between them every 20 minutes, and remember to wrap the heat and ice packs in a towel before putting them on your skin.
* taking a hot shower
* laying down with a rolled up towel under your neck
* using a handheld massager
* getting a massage

Although you may not feel like it, you may want to try simply keeping your body and joints moving to find relief from a pinched nerve pain. You can:

* do general range of motion stretches and movements: if your neck has the pinched nerve, you can do some simple neck rolls. If you need to work on your low back (lumbar spine), refer to this article for exercises and stretches. As you stretch the affected area, your body will release endorphins in response to the movement. Those endorphins can give pain relief.
* take a light stroll: this is especially good if your low back is hurting you.
* lay on a bed/couch and pull your knees up towards your chest: this is especially good if your low back is hurting you.

Another self-care option is to take an over-the-counter anti-inflammatory, such as Aleve or Advil.

If your pain persists more than a couple of days, make an appointment to see your doctor.

In Mid-Michigan your doctor of pain relief is Dr Denise at Colestock Family Chiropractic in Eaton Rapids. She specializes in the Activator Method Technique to alleviate your pain and get you some relief.

You can click on the “about us” link towards the top of our website to see our business hours and contact information to schedule an appointment, although walk-ins are welcome.

More than 80% of neck and back problems are a result of tight, achy muscles brought on by years of bad posture. Additionally, joint stiffness and pain, which sometimes presents itself as back pain, could mean you are at risk for degenerative osteoarthritis. Studies have shown that there are ways you can help prevent this. Poor posture and a sedentary lifestyle have shown to increase the risk of the condition in later years.

Information you read on this Web site cannot replace the relationship that you have with your health care professional. We do not practice medicine or provide medical services or advice as a part of this Web site. You should always talk to your health care professional for diagnosis and treatment.

Your health care professional and back pain specialist in Mid-Michigan is Colestock Family Chiropractic in Eaton Rapids, located about halfway between Lansing and Jackson on M-50.

If you’re experiencing stiffness and tightness in your back, or other extremities, give Dr. Denise Colestock a call at 517.663.8825 and get yourself a check-up. Relieve yourself from the stiffness and tightness in your body with an adjustment using the Activator Method Technique to better wellness.

Here’s some proper body mechanics that if you adhere to will minimize your setbacks and keep you feeling as well as you should be.

When Standing

- Place feet shoulder width apart, don’t lock your knees;
- Avoid arching your lower back or slumping your upper back and shoulders;
- Keep your breastbone up, shoulder blades down;
- Keep your chin level, relax jaw and neck muscles.

When Sitting

- Rest your feet on floor with knees and hips bent 90 degrees;
- Maintain a neutral arch in your lower back;
- Keep your breastbone up, shoulder blades down;
- Keep your chin level, relax jaw and neck muscles

When Driving

- Adjust your seat so that the back is vertical. Your back should be supported by the seat back and your head should rest against headrest with your chin level;
- Knees should be bent, and at least at the same height as your hips;
- Elbows should be slightly bent and relaxed, with your shoulders down.

When Sleeping

- Use a firm mattress. Placing a board between the mattress and box spring can provide a temporary fix for one that is sagging.
- Lie on your back or side. When lying on the side, a pillow between the knees helps maintain a neutral spine. This will make a world of difference.
- Use a cervical roll (a foam roll or a folded pillow will do just fine) to support the natural curves in your neck or low back.

Whether you’re suffering from acute back pain, upper back pain, lower back pain, any sort of back pain at all, remember your back care specialist in Mid-Michigan is Colestock Family Chiropractic in Eaton Rapids.

Unlike typical chiropractors, Dr Denise from Colestock Family Chiropractic uses the painless procedure called the Activator Method Technique where she is able to pin-point your problem area and alleviate the pain without the “snap, crackle and pop” most chiropractors specialize in.

A no pain visit and you’ll walk out feeling much better for it.

So the next time you need some back pain relief give Colestock Family Chiropractic a call at 517.663.8825 and schedule yourself a quality body and back re-alignment with the Activator Method Technique. Walk-in’s are welcome.

Serving the Eaton Rapids community and Mid-Michigan since 2003.

Where do you start?

~ Eat a nutrient-rich, balanced diet, with sufficient intake of calcium, Vitamin D and phosphorus. (Phosphate makes up more than half the mass of bone mineral; Vitamin D helps maintain appropriate calcium/phosphorus levels. When phosphorus is too high, the body takes calcium out of the bones to bind with the phosphorus and remove it from the blood. Bones become brittle as a result.)

~ Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol use. That goes without saying.

~ Maintain a healthy weight— additional pounds place excess strain on spinal vertebrae and discs creating physical stress which leads to something else….

~ Stay well-hydrated. The body is 70% water, and sufficient hydration contributes to intervertebral disc health and that of other back related structures and functions. H20 acts as a spinal lubricant.

~ And often over-looked, get your vision checked. Poor vision can affect the way you carry yourself, which can contribute to back problems. Hunched over because you feel the weight of the world on your shoulders? Get your eyes checked. And stop hunching over!

Next post I’ll blog about the Proper Body Mechanics when standing, sitting, driving and sleeping.

For all our back aches and pains, visit Colestock Family Chiropractic in Eaton Rapids, MI specializing in the Activator Method Technique, a painless adjustment procedure that’ll realign your back without the snap, crackle and pop of your typical chiropractor.

Call Dr Denise today at 517.663.8825 to schedule your appointment. Walk-in’s are welcome, however, by appt has priority.

Only 17 minutes from Charlotte, Mi, 22 minutes from Jackson mi, 25 minutes from Lansing Mi, on M-50 in Eaton Rapids between I-69 and 127.