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Neck Pain, Back Pain, Sciatica and Pregnancy – The Back Pain Complex, Causes and Treatment

The back pain complex, to include neck pain, back pain and sciatica, is one of the most common complaints among mothers-to-be during pregnancy. The spine is made up of two primary and two secondary curvatures. The secondary curvature of the lumbar region is most affected during pregnancy. The lumbar curvature, established after birth and responsible for our ability to walk upright, comes under tremendous pressure during pregnancy. Back pain is quite common during pregnancy with as many as 80% of all women experiencing neck pain, back pain and/or sciatica in varying degrees. The back pain complex is expressed from mild to acute and may become chronic if not properly addressed. We will discuss some of the reasons why back pain is so prevalent during pregnancy and offer a few solutions, as well.

While women with previous back problems are at greater risk for neck pain, back pain and sciatica, it is common among all women beginning as early as two months and continuing through, and well after, the completion of the pregnancy. During pregnancy the body produces a number of hormones, some in much higher quantities than typically found. One of the principal hormones having the most dramatic impact during pregnancy is called Relaxin. Relaxin's function it is to make the ligaments associated with birth, and the pelvis aperture itself, softer and more pliable. The reasons for this are obvious, it is vitally important for the baby, particularly the baby's cranium or skull, to be able to pass through the birth canal with relative ease, Relaxin makes this possible. Additionally, as the uterus grows and weight shifts forward, the center of gravity changes and the relaxation of the uterine ligaments impacts the spine and the surrounding musculature. The core muscles, to include key abdominal muscles, spinal muscles, and para-vertebral muscles, are also stretched and taxed beyond normal capabilities. The combination of hormonal and structural factors often contribute to varying degrees of neck pain, back pain, and sciatica.

Obesity, always a significant factor in diagnosing and treating the back pain complex, becomes an even greater issue during pregnancy. Normal weight gain, not to be confused with obesity, may also negatively affect mothers-to-be. The combination of an exaggerated spinal curvature, called lordosis in the lumbar region, a shift in the center of gravity, additional weight carried forward, and a weaker core muscle complex are also contributory factors. The core muscles, as well as other synergistic muscle groups, may be strengthened through a program of exercise and stretching. It must be recognized that back pain during pregnancy is the rule rather than the exception, the challenge is to deal effectively with the underlying cause or causes with an intelligent and individualized treatment program.

Two of the most common back pain expressions during pregnancy, are lumbar pain, centered primarily in the lower back, and posterior pelvic pain, with symptoms very much like those associated with sciatica. The low back or lumbar pain is generally centered in the lower back and may radiate unilaterally, one side, or bilaterally, both sides, across the iliac crest, which is the region to each side of the spine at the upper level of the pelvis. Once again, pain may range from mild to acute and grow increasingly intense the deeper into the pregnancy the mother-to-be is. Back pain in this region is exacerbated by extended periods of standing, particularly in one place, sitting for long periods of time, and by poor posture, as in the old military idea of "stomach and chest out" which simply does not work for obvious reasons. Posterior pelvic pain can be quite severe and may be four to five times more prevalent than any other back pain expression during pregnancy. Posterior pelvic pain, as noted above, may be indistinguishable in its expression from sciatica. Pelvic pain may be felt as a deep ache or even a burning sensation, may radiate across the buttocks and into the legs, unilaterally or bilaterally, and in its worst configuration or state may also be felt in the feet and toes, very much like sciatica. The biggest distinction between posterior pelvic pain and sciatica is that posterior pelvic pain is more commonly experienced bilaterally. Sciatica, on the other hand, is generally a unilateral expression affecting the buttocks, legs, feet, and toes.

While quite common, neck pain, back pain and/or sciatica, including posterior pelvic pain, should not be taken lightly. If the back pain complex is not addressed properly, it may have negative consequences throughout the pregnancy and felt in virtually every aspect of the new mom's life. It is not uncommon for women who experience severe back pain throughout the pregnancy to continue to have problems well into the post partum period. Pregnancy can be, and usually is, a wonderful time in both the family's life and in the life of the mother-to-be. However, if back pain is not addressed it may have a negative impact during and afterwards, in some cases for years after the pregnancy.

As noted above, there may be a myriad of causes and consequences associated with the back pain complex, as it relates to pregnancy. An intelligent, individualized, and medically supervised program of exercise and stretching is not only advisable it is absolutely necessary. Certain exercises, such as the pelvic tilt and crunches, at least until the latter stages of the pregnancy, may be appropriate and advisable. However, it is usually the case that such self-treatment programs of exercise are not only misguided but fail to achieve any real and lasting relief or benefit. Additionally, because of the shift in the center of gravity and the exacerbated lumbar curvature, a complete program focusing on the core muscles may be the best approach. Improper posture, standing for long periods of time, sitting for long periods, and even remaining inactive for extended periods of time may have a negative impact, ultimately leading to even greater pain. Finally, it is advisable for pregnant women, particularly those who work deep into the pregnancy or have other children, to take special care when lifting anything heavy. Because of the number of physiological and anatomical changes that take place during pregnancy, a program that seeks to strengthen the musculature and to improve endurance, so fatigue doesn't lead to other problems and injuries, should be initiated as soon as possible. Only through a comprehensive program of treatment and exercise can a prospective mom hope alleviate or eliminate neck pain, back pain, and sciatica.

Car Seat Back Support Makes Driving A Pain Free Experience

In today's world where most of us are spending a great amount of time sitting - at home, at work, at theaters, at meetings, while traveling and so on, the sitting posture becomes a matter of prime importance. Most of us can be found slouching in our seats, which is a very wrong posture for the body. Also a very hectic schedule hardly leaves any time for us to indulge in a regular exercise schedule. So gradually this posture gives rise to severe back pain and spinal problems making even these regular activities very painful. Driving is no exception. More and more people are therefore going in for a car seat back support to make driving a pain free experience.

A comfortable and painless posture while driving is of utmost importance. A person suffering from sudden discomfort or pain while sitting in office or home can have immediate access to medical help. However a person who is driving, if faced with a sudden increase in pain runs the risk of causing accidents and hurting not only himself but also others on the road. A car seat back support eliminates this option by helping the driver maintain a comfortable and normal body posture. Also a person who is driving for a long distance will be infinitely more comfortable with a car back seat support that gives him comfort throughout the entire journey.

Nowadays we find even youngsters suffering from backaches and spinal problems that cause life long problems if not given proper medical attention. The importance of correct body posture and maintaining the normal alignment of the spinal chord is constantly repeated by doctors and fitness experts. At least while driving a firm car seat back support ensures that you maintain the right posture and prevent back problems from arising.

A Car seat back support is ergonomically designed to provide the maximum comfort to the human body. Waterfall type car back seat support ensures that the spinal chord maintains its natural shape while providing total comfort to the driver. In addition to such support devices one must also ensure that other preventive measures are taken to prevent back problems. Maintaining proper posture at all times, regular exercises for posture and medical advice at the slightest hint of discomfort can ensure a pain free existence for all.

A healthy body also ensures that our activity level is at an all time high. A chronic problem like a backache can create hindrances in not only our work but in our social life as well. A lumber car back seat support comes as a blessing to a person who is constantly on the move. Additional support in the form of a comfortable chair with back rest and arm support, light stretching exercise for the entire body and healthy eating habits can enable a person to enjoy a comfortable life. A healthy body makes a happier person who in turn can ensure a positive surrounding for all those who come into contact with him on a day to day basis. So staying healthy and comfortable plays a vital role in maintaining your peace of mind in this stress filled environment of today.

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Relieving Back Pain – 5 Pieces of Medical Equipment You Can Have at Home

Many people have back pain and these people are looking for ways to relieve and treat that back pain at home. There are many devices and medicines out there that states they're just for back pain, but are they really worth it? Do they really work? The truth is that there are many products out there that work. What results is back pain that is significantly reduced, which improves the quality of life. If you suffer from back pain, then having your own physical therapy equipment or massage therapy equipment in your home can really make a difference in your life.

Products that help

Luckily, physical therapy supplies and massage therapy supplies are not just meant to be in the doctor's office. They can be brought home.

Here are some products that you may be interested in if you're looking to bring the physical therapy supplies home so that you can work on your back problems yourself:

o The Total Back System by Motion may look like something you see in your local gym. Actually, some local gyms might have it to help those having back pain issues. What this product uses is inversion therapy. This helps alleviate pain, relieve stress, and also strengthens the back. Something about back pain is that it reduces core strength. When core strength is reduced, the back has to work harder to sustain itself. By strengthening your core muscles, you are taking stress off of your back and reducing pain.

The Total Back System is one of the best pieces of physical therapy equipment because it elongates the spine, which relieves pressure from discs and nerves. All it takes is a few minutes a day and it is easy to move around if you need to.

o The GT-1000 Gravity Table is another piece of physical therapy equipment that also uses inversion therapy to strengthen your back. It is a gravity table that forces you to use the muscles in your back and core. You are stretched out so you achieve an elongated spine. In the meantime, you are moving in a number of positions, including upside down.

o The BW-1 Bio-Stim Belt and TENS is one of those physical therapy supplies that many people enjoy. Actually, it is also used in the massage therapy world as massage therapy equipment when you can't have a massage therapist right there by your side. This is because it is like having a massage therapist under your shirt. The belt fits snugly so that it is hardly seen. There are electrodes on the inside of the belt that are operated from a small box that attaches to the belt. That way you can go about your daily activities while receiving those muscle stimulating jolts. This loosens up the lower back muscles and relieves pain. The settings are adjustable, you get a certain degree of back support, and you don't have to take pain killers to make the pain go away.

o The ComforTrac Lumbar is a simple piece of equipment to use. By looking at it, it is hard to determine how exactly it will help the lumbar spine, but it does. It is portable, affordable, and easy to use. The surfaces are cushioned, it only takes the push of one button to release the pump, it is strong without the significant weight, the carriage turn is automatic after traction occurs, pumping is quite effortless, and relief is evident. This will work for virtually anyone with lower back pain.

o VitalWrap Hot & Cold Compression Therapy System brings about the usual "hot and cold" treatment method for injuries. It uses what looks like a blender, but incorporates both hot and cold temperatures to relieve back pain. You can place ice and water inside the device to produce the cold compression that you need. However, the device can heat that ice and water to give you the hot compression that you need. Everything is in one place so that you do not have to use different compression methods. All of it is in one machine, which is important when a doctor gives orders to use both hot and cold compression to relieve pain and initiate healing.

Importance of these tools

These physical and massage therapy supplies are important to have in your home if you have back problems. Even if you don't have problems now, something such as the VitalWrap Hot & Cold Compression Therapy System should be present in the home anyway because such a device is helpful on any type of muscle injury. Unfortunately, any type of muscle injury is hard to avoid, especially injuries to the back. The back tends to be the most injured part of a person's body because of the day-to-day stress placed upon it. At least you can have the proper Physical therapy and massage therapy equipment in your home to take care of it when it occurs.

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The Best & Quickest Exercise to Relieve Sciatica

Sciatica, I'm sure you know, is a real "pain in the butt". It affects your day to day life and stops you enjoying your work and leisure times.

At times pin is constant and you may even get numbness in your legs. You may be frustrated that you can't even tie your own shoe laces, or play with your kids, let alone perform totally at work.

You may have fears that it will become worse and that you may end up having surgery. Or worse become permanently disabled due to the pain, as a cure is very hard to find.

Freedom from sciatica pain is possible though, especially if you know why sciatica occurs and what you can do to ease your pain.

Becoming completely healed, having your flexibility returned and being able to do anything you want or desire is not just a pipe dream.

To return to total fitness and to become pain free means you need to address all the factors that cause your sciatica. You need to realign your spine, balance your pelvis, relax tight muscle and strengthen weak muscles. All simple things to do at home...

With sciatica you also need to stretch your Piriformis muscles, remove any tension off your discs and the most important thing to do is take pressure off your Sacro-Iliac joints.

The Sacro-Iliac joints are the link between your spine and your pelvis. These joints if tight create the muscles in your buttock to tighten (namely the Piriformis), they allow the pelvis to become unbalanced and then also allow distortion in the spine.

Correcting these joints will help the other areas to ease somewhat. However you still need to target these areas if you want that total health and freedom from sciatica pain.

So the question is...

How do you relieve pressure off the Sacro-Iliac joints?

Simple, you need to get a towel. A simple bath towel and fold it in half length-ways. Then roll it up so you have a cylinder shape.

Then you need to lie on your back, place the towel under your sacrum. This is the wedge shape bone at the base of your spine. Place the towel so that the top edge is at about belt height and the rolled towel points towards your feet.

To recap - the rolled towel is in the midline of your sacrum - the top edge at belt height - the rest of the towel is therefore over the sacrum and tailbone.

Then all you need to do is lie there. While you lie make two fists and place these under your head on the rounded area of the back of your skull. Why?

Your sacrum and occiput work together. So lying on the towel and with both fists on the back of your head helps to take pressure off the joints and ease other pressures in the spine.

It is as simple as that. Just lie there for about 5 minutes and then get up gently and go for a few minute stroll.

Easing your sciatica is easy and quick. You cannot do these types of techniques wrong and they help relieve pain quickly.

To get complete and total freedom from your sciatica pain, you need to do this and also the pother techniques in the X-Pain Method. This way you will improve your flexibility, have freedom from back pain, and be able to do all the activities you wish - at home and work and return to total health and fitness.

Sciatica does not need to rule your life. The continuous pain, numbness and frustrations of having poor mobility can ease and disappear. You just need to apply some simple techniques to eliminate your sciatica once and for all.

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Home Back Pain Remedies For Common Back Pain Problems

At some point, everyone will suffer from back pain. Some people suffer more often than most but the good news is there are several back pain remedies that may help you. These remedies can help with the pain and even prevent it from happening.

There are many remedies out there and which one you choose depends on the what is causing your problem. If you are experiencing muscle pain due to a strain or injury then a hot bath or heating pad will help relax your tender spots. For just a general aching from everyday life stress a massage can get you feeling 100% again.

If the injury just occurred then a cold compress will help keep the muscles from becoming inflamed and speeding your recovery. Hot compresses are best 42 hours after the injury occurred as the warmth relaxes the muscles and increases blood flow.

Taking medication such as aspirin or ibuprofen can help with swelling and numb the area enough for you to relax the muscles but I do not recommend them. Your body has the power to release the proper chemicals to the injured area and begin repairs but it will not know to do that if you cover up the pain with medications.

Some other back pain remedies deal with causes of your pain and not the actual pain. These can include sleeping on a good mattress and taking frequent breaks to stretch if you are confined to a desk all day. An old mattress can put your back in a bad position causing daily back problems. Making sure your work station is an ergonomic fit for you is just as important for your back, neck, eyes and your whole body.

Some of the best remedies are the ones that prevent back pain before it gets you. Make a list of the things you do through out the day that make you notice your back and find ways of eliminating or improving the conditions under which you perform those tasks.

Low Back Problems and What I Have Learned From Them

I have suffered from low back pain since I was 15 years old. It could have been any number of accidents that caused my problems, but I think it was the cracking the sacrum tobogganing on pine needles. That was a pretty painful childhood memory and I'm pretty sure the culprit of my problems.

My step father was a chiropractor so that was obviously the first therapy I tried for my back problem. No relief. Next I tried ice and heat, no relief. Finally after years of flare ups with no relief I decided to try acupuncture. No relief. But during my appointment I picked up a flier for a new massage school that had just opened up in a neighboring town.

Long story short I attended massage school and have learned even more about my back problems. Have I learned the cure for low back problems? No, but I have learned several things that can help to keep it at bay. The thing I have learned for sure is that low back pain is kind of a trash basket term and many people have it, with many different causes.

There is no one way to fix it, and sometimes you cannot fix, or even help it at all. It is frustrating for the therapist the client and for all involved.

Many practitioners try one method for all and it does not work. The causes can be weak back muscles, weak abdominal muscles, tight hamstrings, tight psoas, tight hip flexors, overstretched abdominals, as in pregnancy and shortened tightened low back muscles. Those are just some of the physical causes and I will not even go into the psychological causes that have been studied and attached to low back problems.

The first place to begin when you have hurt your low back is to quit what you are doing. If you were lifting your two year old out of the car seat and getting him out of the car, get someone to help with that for awhile until you are better.

Next get some ice on it. I have found more people respond well to ice than heat. It is much more uncomfortable to use ice, so sometimes I have clients mix it up. 20 minutes heat, 20 minutes of ice, always ending on ice. Recent studies have found that heat is more effective for some folks than ice, only on trunk injuries though.

The third thing I have observed is do not quit moving! When I was training for an iron man my low back finally went on strike and one day while cleaning it pinged. I was very tempted to go to bed and let it heal, but knew that would not help. So I went for a long ride. It did not help but did not make it worse, so I kept training. I have found going to bed just makes it worse and causes it to be stiffer.

I would love to say the fourth thing is to get a massage, since I am a massage therapist, but I cannot say that. Massage helps some people but not others. I find that a massage helps the rest of my muscles relax and gives them a break from the pain for a while, though I cannot take any massage around the SI joints when it is in full out spasm.

So the fourth thing is probably take some good old muscle relaxants and try to do some gentle moving. I do find some trigger point therapy helps, which I can to myself with a ball. I lay on the ball and roll it around my hips and low back until I find a "hot spot" once I locate this spot I just keep the point on the ball until it begins to ease up. I find that to be very effective.

For low back pain the best thing to do is find what works for you and do it. The sooner the better I have found. And according to some back specialists, ignoring it will make it go away!