Author: Sharon Bell
Back muscles get strained, disks degenerate, and nerves are pinched. That’s what happens when you have back pain, a common complaint among athletes. Causes range from a strain, muscle overuse or a more ominous condition such as a herniated disc.
"What has emerged in much greater numbers recently is pain in the low back of our younger athletes in high school and college, especially in sports like baseball, tennis and gymnastics," said Dr. Brian Halpern, a sports medicine specialist at the Hospital for Special Surgery in New York City. "These activities generate tremendous rotational forces around areas in the lumbar spine, often resulting in overload of these structures."
Diagnosing this condition is difficult and often needs more precise imaging than X-rays to identify the problem. Thanks to bone scans and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), stress fractures of the spine can now be identified. In addition, MRI can also distinguish a herniated disc from a stress fracture, thereby using one study to rule out all possibilities.
Treatment of these lesions is not always easy. Experts say that relative rest can be effective but sometimes bracing is indicated and proper rehabilitation is needed. Most sports injuries can be avoided with the proper stretching and strengthening routine.
The majority of low back pain in athletes can be treated with conservative means. Treatments will vary depending on the cause of pain. Back strains may simply require a short period of limited activity, medication, and ice applications. When symptoms ease, athletes are usually able to resume their activities gradually, applying concepts of proper conditioning and warm ups.
Athletes are not the only ones who are susceptible to back injury. Data show that 80 percent of the population can experience significant back pain at some point in their lives. Your mother was right when she told you to watch your posture because that can fend off strain and pain. Play it safe to avoid further back injury.
Your doctor may prescribe anti-inflammatory medications like Phosoplex to reduce back pain and swelling. This natural product is a powerful and safe solution to back pain. It helps lubricate joints and rebuilds healthy cartilage. Phosoplex can give back your active lifestyle. Ease your back pain now. Visit www.phosoplex.com for details.
Thursday, September 20, 2007
Wednesday, March 14, 2007
Back Pain In Children: Go To The Root Cause
By Joann Grant
Children suffer from many diseases and disorders in their childhood days, but chronic back pain is a rare disorder that is found in them. The general cause of a child’s back pain is an injury or sitting and standing in bad postures. But if there occurred no injury and still your child is suffering from a consistent back pain, do you know what to do? Well, your child needs an immediate medical attention.
Back pain in children not just come with a constant and harrowing pain, but is also accompanied with many other symptoms like high fever, loss of weight, behavioral changes, weakness, sleeplessness and nausea. You need to keep a constant tap on any of these symptoms and report immediately to a nearby doctor if the conditions do not improve.
The only way to get to the root of your child’s back pain is with a proper medical attention. You should get a spine X-ray test done and find out the accurate cause of the suffering. Right diagnosis will only lead to a right treatment. The other tests that may help you find the reasons of back pain are MRI, a bone scan, CT scan, blood tests and ESR.
Your child can suffer due to back pain due to the following reasons:
Bad Postures: Children have a habit to sit in bad postures while studying, reading, eating and watching TV. It is the biggest cause of back pain in children. You need to take a regular notice of that and correct your child whenever he follows a bad posture.
Injuries: Injuries remain the most common cause of back pain in children. A minor fall can cause a muscle pull or even strain a ligament. If not taken seriously, the problem can aggravate. Pain due an injury can be treated with anti-inflammatory medicines, effectively. Ibuprofen is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug that is commonly used. But these medicines should be under the medical supervision of a good doctor only.
Spondylolysis: Over five per cent of children suffer due to back pain that falls in this category of spondylolysis. In this disease there occurs a fracture in the lower vertebra of the spinal cord. If not taken care of properly, the pain may aggravate. In such situations, surgery and bracing remains the last option. The problem with this disorder is that, in children it does not come up with any symptoms. Therefore sometimes it becomes difficult to find out if the child is suffering from this disorder.
Herniation of the disk: Herniated disk is a rare cause of back pain in children. If it occurs, it causes weakness and numbness in the child’s body. The only treatment to this type of back pain is bed rest and surgery in rarest-of-rare cases.
Pott’s Disease: This disease occurs due to TB of spine in children. The disorder can be cured with the administration of antibiotics like, third generation cephlaosporins and ceftriaxone.
Diskitis: This disorder occurs due to infections in the disk. Infection leads to high fever, back pain, muscle spasms coupled with behavioral irritability. If not taken care of the disorder at the early stages, there can occur acute complications in the later years of life. Treatment of this disorder includes bed rest coupled with a supervised course of antibiotics.
Pyelonephritis: If you were thinking that back pain could only occur due to some dysfunctionality in the spine, you were wrong. There also occurs a kidney infection that is a cause of back pain. In Pyelonephritis, children suffer due to a sharp pain that is usually on one side of the back. The pain is accompanied with high fever and nauseatic feelings. The child may also feel pain or a burning sensation while urinating.
Scheurman's kyphosis: This disorder is common in adolescents, especially males. The upper back takes a round shape, thus bending the whole spine. There are two forms of this disease. One is flexible kyphosis and the other is non-flexible kyphosis. The treatment requires bracing up of the back.
Spondylolisthesis: Children who suffer from spondylolysis have a slip of their 5th vertebra. The sacrum also dislocates. The severe cases of this disorder can only be corrected with a surgery.
Besides these, there are other causes of back pain in children. They are tumors or neoplasms, malnutrition, suffering due to trauma, muscle weakness, arthritis and some of the other infections. But theses reasons are generally rare.
To get more information visit causes of back pain, back pain treatment & http://www.backpaindetails.com/pain/magazine/edition/Backpain-Guide.htm
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Joann_Grant
Children suffer from many diseases and disorders in their childhood days, but chronic back pain is a rare disorder that is found in them. The general cause of a child’s back pain is an injury or sitting and standing in bad postures. But if there occurred no injury and still your child is suffering from a consistent back pain, do you know what to do? Well, your child needs an immediate medical attention.
Back pain in children not just come with a constant and harrowing pain, but is also accompanied with many other symptoms like high fever, loss of weight, behavioral changes, weakness, sleeplessness and nausea. You need to keep a constant tap on any of these symptoms and report immediately to a nearby doctor if the conditions do not improve.
The only way to get to the root of your child’s back pain is with a proper medical attention. You should get a spine X-ray test done and find out the accurate cause of the suffering. Right diagnosis will only lead to a right treatment. The other tests that may help you find the reasons of back pain are MRI, a bone scan, CT scan, blood tests and ESR.
Your child can suffer due to back pain due to the following reasons:
Bad Postures: Children have a habit to sit in bad postures while studying, reading, eating and watching TV. It is the biggest cause of back pain in children. You need to take a regular notice of that and correct your child whenever he follows a bad posture.
Injuries: Injuries remain the most common cause of back pain in children. A minor fall can cause a muscle pull or even strain a ligament. If not taken seriously, the problem can aggravate. Pain due an injury can be treated with anti-inflammatory medicines, effectively. Ibuprofen is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug that is commonly used. But these medicines should be under the medical supervision of a good doctor only.
Spondylolysis: Over five per cent of children suffer due to back pain that falls in this category of spondylolysis. In this disease there occurs a fracture in the lower vertebra of the spinal cord. If not taken care of properly, the pain may aggravate. In such situations, surgery and bracing remains the last option. The problem with this disorder is that, in children it does not come up with any symptoms. Therefore sometimes it becomes difficult to find out if the child is suffering from this disorder.
Herniation of the disk: Herniated disk is a rare cause of back pain in children. If it occurs, it causes weakness and numbness in the child’s body. The only treatment to this type of back pain is bed rest and surgery in rarest-of-rare cases.
Pott’s Disease: This disease occurs due to TB of spine in children. The disorder can be cured with the administration of antibiotics like, third generation cephlaosporins and ceftriaxone.
Diskitis: This disorder occurs due to infections in the disk. Infection leads to high fever, back pain, muscle spasms coupled with behavioral irritability. If not taken care of the disorder at the early stages, there can occur acute complications in the later years of life. Treatment of this disorder includes bed rest coupled with a supervised course of antibiotics.
Pyelonephritis: If you were thinking that back pain could only occur due to some dysfunctionality in the spine, you were wrong. There also occurs a kidney infection that is a cause of back pain. In Pyelonephritis, children suffer due to a sharp pain that is usually on one side of the back. The pain is accompanied with high fever and nauseatic feelings. The child may also feel pain or a burning sensation while urinating.
Scheurman's kyphosis: This disorder is common in adolescents, especially males. The upper back takes a round shape, thus bending the whole spine. There are two forms of this disease. One is flexible kyphosis and the other is non-flexible kyphosis. The treatment requires bracing up of the back.
Spondylolisthesis: Children who suffer from spondylolysis have a slip of their 5th vertebra. The sacrum also dislocates. The severe cases of this disorder can only be corrected with a surgery.
Besides these, there are other causes of back pain in children. They are tumors or neoplasms, malnutrition, suffering due to trauma, muscle weakness, arthritis and some of the other infections. But theses reasons are generally rare.
To get more information visit causes of back pain, back pain treatment & http://www.backpaindetails.com/pain/magazine/edition/Backpain-Guide.htm
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Joann_Grant
Wednesday, February 28, 2007
Neck Pain - Is There Any Relief?
By Linda Van Fleet
I know you've had neck pain -- hasn't everyone? Even my three year old grandchild has asked me to rub her neck because "it hurts, Gams." Having a pain in the neck is no fun. Your head feels like a ton of bricks bearing down on your neck and you feel helpless to do anything about it. It doesn’t matter how you got your neck pain; what matters is that you have it and you just can’t seem to function in your life with it. So how do you go about finding neck pain relief? Having been on the receiving of end of chronic neck pain, I've discovered a few things that I'd like to pass on to you.
Determine the Cause of the Pain
The best place to start in managing your neck pain is to determine the root of your pain. Even though it won't make your neck stop hurting to find out why it is hurting, it's the first step to recovery because you won't do that (whatever caused it) again. For example, if you have slept in the wrong position, you can adjust how you sleep the next night so that you don’t have to deal with it. Or, in my case just yesterday, I won't scrub the tile in the kitchen with Clorox again! My counter top was pristine but, oh, what a headache I had a few minutes later.
Break Habits That Cause Neck Pain
On another ocassion I found myself on the chiropractor's table getting an adjustment because I had worked too long, sitting in a strained position, in front of my computer. Another time I discovered that my favorite handbag was the culprit. No longer do I carry a heavy purse on my shoulder.
Now, that was a hard habit to break I can assure you. However, my chiropractor told me in no uncertain terms if I want to help my neck I should change my purse. I also stopped holding the phone against my shoulder, a habit a bit easier to break because of the pain generated when I forget. Yes, it's hard to break such habits; however, to make sure that you are doing things that aren’t going to lead to more pain, change is necessary. This is perhaps the hardest part.
Another way you can alleviate some neck pain is to adjust your sleeping position. Our necks are very sensitive when it comes to how we sleep. Be sure that you are always sleeping in a way that doesn’t cause your neck to hurt. Take precautions to make sure that your head is fully supported as you sleep as some neck pain occurs because your neck is having to work too hard to hold up your head as you sleep.
Apply Heat And Stretch Those Neck Muscles
So, what's the best way to treat neck pain? I've found that applying heat to the area of my neck that hurts offers soothing relief. Stretching is also good. Many times the key to neck pain relief is to make sure the muscles that have been affected have a chance to get stretched out. A good method I've used is to lie in a tub of hot water first -- then stretch my neck while it is warm from the hot water. The hot water and the steam helps the muscles in your neck to uncoil. I have found my neck feels better quickly when I do this. Oh! What a relief!
Linda Van Fleet is the author of several inspirational and self-help articles. For more health related articles please visit http://painrelief.applecity.com.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Linda_Van_Fleet
I know you've had neck pain -- hasn't everyone? Even my three year old grandchild has asked me to rub her neck because "it hurts, Gams." Having a pain in the neck is no fun. Your head feels like a ton of bricks bearing down on your neck and you feel helpless to do anything about it. It doesn’t matter how you got your neck pain; what matters is that you have it and you just can’t seem to function in your life with it. So how do you go about finding neck pain relief? Having been on the receiving of end of chronic neck pain, I've discovered a few things that I'd like to pass on to you.
Determine the Cause of the Pain
The best place to start in managing your neck pain is to determine the root of your pain. Even though it won't make your neck stop hurting to find out why it is hurting, it's the first step to recovery because you won't do that (whatever caused it) again. For example, if you have slept in the wrong position, you can adjust how you sleep the next night so that you don’t have to deal with it. Or, in my case just yesterday, I won't scrub the tile in the kitchen with Clorox again! My counter top was pristine but, oh, what a headache I had a few minutes later.
Break Habits That Cause Neck Pain
On another ocassion I found myself on the chiropractor's table getting an adjustment because I had worked too long, sitting in a strained position, in front of my computer. Another time I discovered that my favorite handbag was the culprit. No longer do I carry a heavy purse on my shoulder.
Now, that was a hard habit to break I can assure you. However, my chiropractor told me in no uncertain terms if I want to help my neck I should change my purse. I also stopped holding the phone against my shoulder, a habit a bit easier to break because of the pain generated when I forget. Yes, it's hard to break such habits; however, to make sure that you are doing things that aren’t going to lead to more pain, change is necessary. This is perhaps the hardest part.
Another way you can alleviate some neck pain is to adjust your sleeping position. Our necks are very sensitive when it comes to how we sleep. Be sure that you are always sleeping in a way that doesn’t cause your neck to hurt. Take precautions to make sure that your head is fully supported as you sleep as some neck pain occurs because your neck is having to work too hard to hold up your head as you sleep.
Apply Heat And Stretch Those Neck Muscles
So, what's the best way to treat neck pain? I've found that applying heat to the area of my neck that hurts offers soothing relief. Stretching is also good. Many times the key to neck pain relief is to make sure the muscles that have been affected have a chance to get stretched out. A good method I've used is to lie in a tub of hot water first -- then stretch my neck while it is warm from the hot water. The hot water and the steam helps the muscles in your neck to uncoil. I have found my neck feels better quickly when I do this. Oh! What a relief!
Linda Van Fleet is the author of several inspirational and self-help articles. For more health related articles please visit http://painrelief.applecity.com.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Linda_Van_Fleet
Saturday, February 24, 2007
The Latest Scoop On Upper Back Pain Relief
By Tom Turner
Back pain is one of the most common ailments today. In fact, it is one of the number one reasons for visiting a doctor's office. Many people suffer from back pain of some type. Upper back pain is just one of the many types of back pain experiences. It can happen to just about anyone, and at any time. There are many reasons for pain in the back to appear. Sometimes, it doesn't take much to bring on the onset of pain. You can actually be doing basically nothing and rise to get up and find that you twisted wrong. Upper back pain can be just as annoying and painful as any other type of back pain. This article will talk about upper back pain, and some ways to get some possible relief.
There are a few different types of things that can cause upper back pain. One of the most common causes is known as muscle strain or spasm. You might have over exerted yourself and caused the muscles to tighten. When the muscles tighten, they usually become inflamed and the swelling that occurs can cause a lot of pain. A car accident can also cause a type of whip lash to occur which will cause the muscles to become inflamed. The muscles may not be damaged, but until the swelling and inflammation goes away, you will experience pain. Ice packs can be helpful some times or the change off of heat and cold can be beneficial as well. Upper back pain can be relieved by massage and relaxation techniques as well, and often it takes pain relievers and anti inflammatory to eliminate the swelling.
Upper back pain can also be caused by stress. It doesn't really matter what kind of stress you are going through, the fact remains that stress causes the muscles to tighten up, and this can cause upper back pain. Relaxation techniques might be very helpful in reducing upper back pain associated with stress.
There are some other reasons for upper back pain that are not as simple as a muscle strain. You may have a disc problem in your spine that is causing this upper back pain. You can experience a herniated or ruptured disc and not be aware of it. The only symptom you might have, is the pain associated with it. In most cases, upper back pain can be taken care of, and will usually go away. In the case of a ruptured disc, you might need surgery to correct the upper back problem, but you will definitely need to get medical attention when upper back pain continues.
If you need more Back Pain help then quickly head over to http://onlinebackpain.com where you will find helpful back pain tips, advice and resources including information on chronic back pain, lower back pain, and Upper Back Pain information.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Tom_Turner
Back pain is one of the most common ailments today. In fact, it is one of the number one reasons for visiting a doctor's office. Many people suffer from back pain of some type. Upper back pain is just one of the many types of back pain experiences. It can happen to just about anyone, and at any time. There are many reasons for pain in the back to appear. Sometimes, it doesn't take much to bring on the onset of pain. You can actually be doing basically nothing and rise to get up and find that you twisted wrong. Upper back pain can be just as annoying and painful as any other type of back pain. This article will talk about upper back pain, and some ways to get some possible relief.
There are a few different types of things that can cause upper back pain. One of the most common causes is known as muscle strain or spasm. You might have over exerted yourself and caused the muscles to tighten. When the muscles tighten, they usually become inflamed and the swelling that occurs can cause a lot of pain. A car accident can also cause a type of whip lash to occur which will cause the muscles to become inflamed. The muscles may not be damaged, but until the swelling and inflammation goes away, you will experience pain. Ice packs can be helpful some times or the change off of heat and cold can be beneficial as well. Upper back pain can be relieved by massage and relaxation techniques as well, and often it takes pain relievers and anti inflammatory to eliminate the swelling.
Upper back pain can also be caused by stress. It doesn't really matter what kind of stress you are going through, the fact remains that stress causes the muscles to tighten up, and this can cause upper back pain. Relaxation techniques might be very helpful in reducing upper back pain associated with stress.
There are some other reasons for upper back pain that are not as simple as a muscle strain. You may have a disc problem in your spine that is causing this upper back pain. You can experience a herniated or ruptured disc and not be aware of it. The only symptom you might have, is the pain associated with it. In most cases, upper back pain can be taken care of, and will usually go away. In the case of a ruptured disc, you might need surgery to correct the upper back problem, but you will definitely need to get medical attention when upper back pain continues.
If you need more Back Pain help then quickly head over to http://onlinebackpain.com where you will find helpful back pain tips, advice and resources including information on chronic back pain, lower back pain, and Upper Back Pain information.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Tom_Turner
Thursday, January 18, 2007
Back Pain and Pregnancy
By Kathryn Lively
Anticipating the birth of a child is one of the many wonderful moments in a parent's life that should be savored. As a woman grows with child, there is opportunity to silently bond and contemplate life with a new addition. Unfortunately, for many women the preparation for birth does not happen without some necessary growing pains. Back pain is an inevitable, yet ultimately preventable, side effect of pregnancy. With proper care, however, it can be minimized so that the mother-to-be can enjoy these nine months of changes and wonder.
What causes back pain during pregnancy?
As woman advance in pregnancy, so advances the opportunity for back pain and discomfort. So many changes occur in a woman's body to prepare it for birth. In particular, ligaments become softer and stretch, and as the baby grows, the hollow in the mother's back may increase. This may cause discomfort.
As the mother gains weight, the back works harder to support the gain balance, resulting in increased lower back pain. Depending upon the size of the mother and the growth of the child, some women may find it very difficult to move in the third trimester. It is not uncommon for some women to be confined to bedrest during the final month of pregnancy. For others able to move around, though, it may be necessary to perform various tasks.
What helps alleviate back pain in pregnant women?
Exercise is often recommended to pregnant women suffering back pain as their bodies grow. It is important to keep the blood flowing as much as possible, as it's necessary for the baby, too. Pregnant women, regardless of the stage of pregnancy, should consult with their obstetricians before taking on any exercise program. While there are specific techniques on the market, including aerobics and yoga for pregnancy, not all may be recommended for all woman. It is always best to check first.
When it's impossible to move around, however, the best solution to easing discomfort is maintaining good posture. When sitting, take every opportunity to sit as straight in a position that allows for the highest level of blood flow to the lower part of the body. Some women may find it comfortable to sit with the feet elevated, while others may use a cushion to help regulate blood flow.
Constant circulation to the lower back, whether through exercise or ergonomics, can help alleviate back discomfort in pregnant women. Don't let simple aches and pains prevent what is otherwise a joyful experience.
Kathryn Lively is a freelance health and travel writer. She writes for FlowCushion, an alternating air pressure seat cushion for driving and sitting, and for CINIVA Systems, Virginia Beach website design.
Anticipating the birth of a child is one of the many wonderful moments in a parent's life that should be savored. As a woman grows with child, there is opportunity to silently bond and contemplate life with a new addition. Unfortunately, for many women the preparation for birth does not happen without some necessary growing pains. Back pain is an inevitable, yet ultimately preventable, side effect of pregnancy. With proper care, however, it can be minimized so that the mother-to-be can enjoy these nine months of changes and wonder.
What causes back pain during pregnancy?
As woman advance in pregnancy, so advances the opportunity for back pain and discomfort. So many changes occur in a woman's body to prepare it for birth. In particular, ligaments become softer and stretch, and as the baby grows, the hollow in the mother's back may increase. This may cause discomfort.
As the mother gains weight, the back works harder to support the gain balance, resulting in increased lower back pain. Depending upon the size of the mother and the growth of the child, some women may find it very difficult to move in the third trimester. It is not uncommon for some women to be confined to bedrest during the final month of pregnancy. For others able to move around, though, it may be necessary to perform various tasks.
What helps alleviate back pain in pregnant women?
Exercise is often recommended to pregnant women suffering back pain as their bodies grow. It is important to keep the blood flowing as much as possible, as it's necessary for the baby, too. Pregnant women, regardless of the stage of pregnancy, should consult with their obstetricians before taking on any exercise program. While there are specific techniques on the market, including aerobics and yoga for pregnancy, not all may be recommended for all woman. It is always best to check first.
When it's impossible to move around, however, the best solution to easing discomfort is maintaining good posture. When sitting, take every opportunity to sit as straight in a position that allows for the highest level of blood flow to the lower part of the body. Some women may find it comfortable to sit with the feet elevated, while others may use a cushion to help regulate blood flow.
Constant circulation to the lower back, whether through exercise or ergonomics, can help alleviate back discomfort in pregnant women. Don't let simple aches and pains prevent what is otherwise a joyful experience.
Kathryn Lively is a freelance health and travel writer. She writes for FlowCushion, an alternating air pressure seat cushion for driving and sitting, and for CINIVA Systems, Virginia Beach website design.
Tuesday, January 9, 2007
Is Chronic Pain Part of Your Life?
By John W. Johnson
Almost one in every five Americans suffers from chronic pain, according to a poll from ABC News and Stanford Medical Center. This means that as many as 40 million people are living life in a near constant state of discomfort - that’s twice as many people as those with diabetes!
There are only 1,700 doctors who are certified as pain specialists by the American Board of Pain Medicine. This means that there is only one doctor for every 23,500 people who need care. It’s no wonder that only 30% of those polled reported receiving a “great deal” of relief from their symptoms.
This epidemic results in an estimated $100 billion loss in worker productivity each year. More importantly, chronic pain can lead to depression, anxiety, sleep disturbances and, in extreme cases, thoughts of suicide.
According to the survey, the top sources of pain were:
Back - 25%
Knee - 12%
Headache/Migraine - 9%
Shoulder - 7%
Legs - 7%
Fortunately, you don’t have to live with chronic pain. There are many effective tools and supplements that can help to turn around the “downward spiral” of chronic pain and fatigue. Massage, chi machines, nutrition and supplements are just a few of the ways you can improve your well-being. Trigger Point Therapy is also a highly effective treatment for breaking up these spots, thus ending the cycle of pain. You can learn to locate these points and release them yourself. Books, such as “The Trigger Point Therapy Workbook”, will teach you how to use short, repetitive massage strokes to release points of tension and restore proper blood flow. Remember - it’s never too late to begin feeling healthy!
John is a nationally certified massage therapist, health researcher, and psychotherapist. He worked on the US Olympic sports massage team during the 2002 Winter Olympics, and has most recently volunteered his time and expertise by giving massages to victims of Hurricane Katrina and the Red Cross personnel who have assisted them. For more information about this subject and his products go to AllAboutChi.com.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=John_W._Johnson
Almost one in every five Americans suffers from chronic pain, according to a poll from ABC News and Stanford Medical Center. This means that as many as 40 million people are living life in a near constant state of discomfort - that’s twice as many people as those with diabetes!
There are only 1,700 doctors who are certified as pain specialists by the American Board of Pain Medicine. This means that there is only one doctor for every 23,500 people who need care. It’s no wonder that only 30% of those polled reported receiving a “great deal” of relief from their symptoms.
This epidemic results in an estimated $100 billion loss in worker productivity each year. More importantly, chronic pain can lead to depression, anxiety, sleep disturbances and, in extreme cases, thoughts of suicide.
According to the survey, the top sources of pain were:
Back - 25%
Knee - 12%
Headache/Migraine - 9%
Shoulder - 7%
Legs - 7%
Fortunately, you don’t have to live with chronic pain. There are many effective tools and supplements that can help to turn around the “downward spiral” of chronic pain and fatigue. Massage, chi machines, nutrition and supplements are just a few of the ways you can improve your well-being. Trigger Point Therapy is also a highly effective treatment for breaking up these spots, thus ending the cycle of pain. You can learn to locate these points and release them yourself. Books, such as “The Trigger Point Therapy Workbook”, will teach you how to use short, repetitive massage strokes to release points of tension and restore proper blood flow. Remember - it’s never too late to begin feeling healthy!
John is a nationally certified massage therapist, health researcher, and psychotherapist. He worked on the US Olympic sports massage team during the 2002 Winter Olympics, and has most recently volunteered his time and expertise by giving massages to victims of Hurricane Katrina and the Red Cross personnel who have assisted them. For more information about this subject and his products go to AllAboutChi.com.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=John_W._Johnson
Saturday, January 6, 2007
Discover a Fibromyalgia Cure
By Tamara Baruhovich
Fibromyalgia or FMS is a chronic musculoskeletal syndrome characterized by pain, tenderness, achiness and stiffness in the muscle tissue, the ligaments, and the tendons. It is like a type of rheumatism but it does not affect joints. Some people report that having fibromyalgia is like living in a permanent state of having the flu.
FMS is a relatively new diagnosis. The very first diagnosis of “Fibromyalgia Syndrome” as such took place in the early 1980’s. Many have claimed a fibromyalgia cure; still most remain in pain without knowing how to help themselves. However, the visibility of fibromyalgia is no doubt attracting more attention amongst medical professionals giving fibromyalgia sufferers hope for a fibromyalgia cure in the near future.
There are about 5 million people affected with FMS in the United States alone. Most affected are women of childbearing age. It can also affect men, children and the elderly but it is less common.
Causes
The exact causes of this complex and perplexing condition are not yet fully understood. There are many theories, but none have been proved conclusively. It is very likely that there are a number of factors involved.
The condition usually appears after an injury, surgery or long illness; nevertheless, no specific illness causes fibromyalgia. It is also thought to be brought on by emotional, psychological, or physical drastic changes or trauma. Prolonged periods of stress have also been considered as a possible cause. It is also suspected that there are underlying biochemical causes -alterations in certain body chemicals produced in excess- even though there is no known anatomical reason for the syndrome.
Another aspect of fibromyalgia is its close association with hypoglycemia, although it is not known if fibromyalgia causes hypoglycemia or the other way around. There may also seem to be a direct relationship with people affected with Candidiasis. Vitamin deficiency has also been linked to FMS.
Yet, some researchers believe that fibromyalgia is caused by an imbalance of the brain’s chemistry, which could be a direct result of mercury toxicity, while others believe its directly related to diet.
Diagnosis
As we mentioned earlier, the cause of fibromyalgia is not known yet. Subsequently, it is often misdiagnosed as anything from arthritis to psychological problems. A true diagnosis takes place only after other diseases with similar symptoms have been ruled out such as Lupus, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, Arthritis and Rheumatism amongst others. Usually, lab tests show no abnormalities of any kind. This is why up until recently FMS was believed to be a “just in your imagination” condition. Nevertheless, FMS is a very real condition.
After learning these facts the question remains… is there hope for fibromyalgia sufferers? Is there a fibromyalgia cure? Let’s find out…
Treatment
The initial treatment for fibromyalgia is a trial and error process, as the variety and severity of symptoms caused by this condition vary from person to person. Therefore, treatment programs must be individualized.
Several drugs have been prescribed for the symptoms of fibromyalgia. Two of the most common ones are Guaifenesin and Amitriptyline (Elavil). Antidepressants have also been used to treat certain symptoms of fibromyalgia, and cyclobenzaprine has been prescribed to treat the pain, stiffness, and sleep problems associated with FMS. Acetaminophen (Tylenol) has also proven effective to ease the pain and stiffness caused by fibromyalgia.
On a more holistic note, adding a soy supplement to the diet has helped alleviate pain and improve the quality of life. Some patients have stated that massage therapy, relaxation therapy, and hydrotherapy have helped alleviate their symptoms. Chinese herbal medicine, biofeedback and psycho-therapy have also been helpful in the treatment of FMS. According to a Mayo Clinic study, acupuncture significantly improved symptoms in fibromyalgia patients.
These types of practices can help control pain, increase energy and improve sleep and other symptoms. Taking extra magnesium, calcium and potassium are also recommended.
The good news
Yes, there is good news! First of all, fibromyalgia is NOT a life threatening condition. Fibromyalgia is diagnosable, is treatable and can be reversed. Numerous individuals claim that their symptoms have disappeared for long periods of time. Others claim total remission.
Every time one patient claims a fibromyalgia cure, there is hope for the rest of fibromyalgia sufferers! One thing you can start with to achieve your fibromyalgia cure is making an effort to become more aware of your day to day routine. What do you do? Where do you go? Learn what factors aggravate your symptoms and avoid them, if possible. Symptoms of fibromyalgia may come and go at first. You need to watch what triggers them. Also, watch your diet. Certain dietary and lifestyle changes may help ease the symptoms.
Also, remember that stress can exacerbate fibromyalgia symptoms. For women, hormonal changes throughout the month can play an important role. And overworking at home and work can bring on symptoms of fibromyalgia too.
FMS is not an imaginary condition. It is REAL. Many of its underlying causes can be treated and possibly 100% eliminated. Seek medical attention. Get help. You will feel better!
Tamara Baruhovich is a Health Educator, Parent Educator, and Online Counselor. Tamara has dedicated 20 years of her life to the health field, informing, teaching, counseling and writing about common health topics and family life concerns. If this article was helpful or if you have questions, send me an e-mail at Be_healthy101@yahoo.com I'll share with you a couple of resource that have helped many FMS sufferers.
Fibromyalgia or FMS is a chronic musculoskeletal syndrome characterized by pain, tenderness, achiness and stiffness in the muscle tissue, the ligaments, and the tendons. It is like a type of rheumatism but it does not affect joints. Some people report that having fibromyalgia is like living in a permanent state of having the flu.
FMS is a relatively new diagnosis. The very first diagnosis of “Fibromyalgia Syndrome” as such took place in the early 1980’s. Many have claimed a fibromyalgia cure; still most remain in pain without knowing how to help themselves. However, the visibility of fibromyalgia is no doubt attracting more attention amongst medical professionals giving fibromyalgia sufferers hope for a fibromyalgia cure in the near future.
There are about 5 million people affected with FMS in the United States alone. Most affected are women of childbearing age. It can also affect men, children and the elderly but it is less common.
Causes
The exact causes of this complex and perplexing condition are not yet fully understood. There are many theories, but none have been proved conclusively. It is very likely that there are a number of factors involved.
The condition usually appears after an injury, surgery or long illness; nevertheless, no specific illness causes fibromyalgia. It is also thought to be brought on by emotional, psychological, or physical drastic changes or trauma. Prolonged periods of stress have also been considered as a possible cause. It is also suspected that there are underlying biochemical causes -alterations in certain body chemicals produced in excess- even though there is no known anatomical reason for the syndrome.
Another aspect of fibromyalgia is its close association with hypoglycemia, although it is not known if fibromyalgia causes hypoglycemia or the other way around. There may also seem to be a direct relationship with people affected with Candidiasis. Vitamin deficiency has also been linked to FMS.
Yet, some researchers believe that fibromyalgia is caused by an imbalance of the brain’s chemistry, which could be a direct result of mercury toxicity, while others believe its directly related to diet.
Diagnosis
As we mentioned earlier, the cause of fibromyalgia is not known yet. Subsequently, it is often misdiagnosed as anything from arthritis to psychological problems. A true diagnosis takes place only after other diseases with similar symptoms have been ruled out such as Lupus, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, Arthritis and Rheumatism amongst others. Usually, lab tests show no abnormalities of any kind. This is why up until recently FMS was believed to be a “just in your imagination” condition. Nevertheless, FMS is a very real condition.
After learning these facts the question remains… is there hope for fibromyalgia sufferers? Is there a fibromyalgia cure? Let’s find out…
Treatment
The initial treatment for fibromyalgia is a trial and error process, as the variety and severity of symptoms caused by this condition vary from person to person. Therefore, treatment programs must be individualized.
Several drugs have been prescribed for the symptoms of fibromyalgia. Two of the most common ones are Guaifenesin and Amitriptyline (Elavil). Antidepressants have also been used to treat certain symptoms of fibromyalgia, and cyclobenzaprine has been prescribed to treat the pain, stiffness, and sleep problems associated with FMS. Acetaminophen (Tylenol) has also proven effective to ease the pain and stiffness caused by fibromyalgia.
On a more holistic note, adding a soy supplement to the diet has helped alleviate pain and improve the quality of life. Some patients have stated that massage therapy, relaxation therapy, and hydrotherapy have helped alleviate their symptoms. Chinese herbal medicine, biofeedback and psycho-therapy have also been helpful in the treatment of FMS. According to a Mayo Clinic study, acupuncture significantly improved symptoms in fibromyalgia patients.
These types of practices can help control pain, increase energy and improve sleep and other symptoms. Taking extra magnesium, calcium and potassium are also recommended.
The good news
Yes, there is good news! First of all, fibromyalgia is NOT a life threatening condition. Fibromyalgia is diagnosable, is treatable and can be reversed. Numerous individuals claim that their symptoms have disappeared for long periods of time. Others claim total remission.
Every time one patient claims a fibromyalgia cure, there is hope for the rest of fibromyalgia sufferers! One thing you can start with to achieve your fibromyalgia cure is making an effort to become more aware of your day to day routine. What do you do? Where do you go? Learn what factors aggravate your symptoms and avoid them, if possible. Symptoms of fibromyalgia may come and go at first. You need to watch what triggers them. Also, watch your diet. Certain dietary and lifestyle changes may help ease the symptoms.
Also, remember that stress can exacerbate fibromyalgia symptoms. For women, hormonal changes throughout the month can play an important role. And overworking at home and work can bring on symptoms of fibromyalgia too.
FMS is not an imaginary condition. It is REAL. Many of its underlying causes can be treated and possibly 100% eliminated. Seek medical attention. Get help. You will feel better!
Tamara Baruhovich is a Health Educator, Parent Educator, and Online Counselor. Tamara has dedicated 20 years of her life to the health field, informing, teaching, counseling and writing about common health topics and family life concerns. If this article was helpful or if you have questions, send me an e-mail at Be_healthy101@yahoo.com I'll share with you a couple of resource that have helped many FMS sufferers.
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