The study you’re referring to, published in the Annals of Internal Medicine, supports the idea that yoga can be beneficial for individuals experiencing low back pain. In this 12-week study, researchers compared the effectiveness of a yoga program with the usual care provided by the National Health Service in the UK. The results indicated that […]
Bed rest can be beneficial for back pain, especially if the pain is severe while sitting or standing. However, it’s essential to limit bed rest during the day to a few hours at a time and for no more than a couple of days. Prolonged bed rest can have negative consequences. If you need to […]
Low back pain is a pervasive issue, ranking as the second leading cause of disability in the United States and the fourth worldwide. It consistently ranks among the top five medical problems prompting individuals to seek medical attention. The prevalence of low back pain contributes significantly to missed workdays and is a major driver of […]
Research We’re Watching A study conducted by the University of Washington aimed to determine the effectiveness of mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) compared to cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and conventional treatment with drugs and physical therapy for chronic back pain. The study involved 342 participants aged 50 to 70, with two-thirds of them being women, who had […]
Contrary to common assumptions about chronic back pain stemming from illness or injury, emerging research suggests that psychological factors play a significant role in its development. Numerous studies propose that thoughts, emotions, and subsequent behaviors are often the culprits behind chronic back pain, and an innovative study underscores the effectiveness of treatments targeting beliefs and […]
When dealing with back pain without resorting to prescription drugs, over-the-counter solutions and physical therapies can provide relief. Consider the following advice from Dr. Jeffrey N. Katz, professor of medicine and surgery at Brigham and Women’s Hospital: 1. Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers: 2. Cold or Heat Therapy: 3. Stay Active: 4. Stretch and Strengthen: 5. Back-Safe […]
A study featured in the Annals of Internal Medicine highlights lumbar spinal stenosis, a form of lower back pain often addressed through surgery. However, the research indicates that physical therapy yields comparable results with fewer associated complications, some of which may be life-threatening. Lumbar spinal stenosis involves the narrowing of the space within the lower […]
Frederick Matthias Alexander, a Shakespearean actor in the 1890s, faced the perplexing issue of frequently losing his voice during performances. Determined to uncover the cause, he meticulously observed himself in multiple mirrors and identified a crucial pattern: intense muscle contractions in his upper body, particularly the neck, altered his posture just before speaking. Alexander hypothesized […]
Recovering from a low back pain flare-up can be a gradual process, spanning weeks to months. In conjunction with conventional care, such as anti-inflammatory pain relievers, staying active, undergoing physical therapy, and allowing the body to heal, massage therapy can offer additional relief. Massage has been shown to alleviate pain and facilitate a quicker return […]
The foam roller is a simple yet effective self-myofascial release tool that can offer various benefits. It is commonly used as a form of self-massage to release tension and tightness in muscles, improve flexibility, and potentially enhance recovery. What is myofascial release? Myofascial release techniques, including foam rolling, aim to target both the muscles and […]