Screenings and tests play a crucial role in identifying potential health problems before they become serious. While men are often less likely than women to undergo regular diagnostic screenings, especially at a younger age, these screenings become increasingly essential as men age, according to Dr. Paul Heinzelmann, a primary care physician at Harvard-affiliated Massachusetts General […]
High blood pressure (hypertension) is typically influenced by various factors, such as age, genetics, obesity, diet, and physical activity. However, about 10% of individuals with high blood pressure have secondary hypertension, which is a result of an underlying condition or disease. In most cases, secondary hypertension is linked to issues with the adrenal glands or […]
Many factors can dispose a person to constipation. Some can easily be prevented by changing habits and lifestyle, but often the reason(s) are not so obvious. Common Causes of Constipation 1. Lack of Exercise: Regular exercise promotes good muscle tone, including abdominal and diaphragm muscles, which play a role in bowel movements. 2. Opioids: Opioid […]
Back pain is a common reason for the decline in mobility as people age. Managing back pain resulting from injuries or health issues is crucial for maintaining an active and healthy lifestyle. Choosing the right mattress is a key factor, as individuals spend a significant portion of their lives in bed, affecting their ability to […]
Low back pain stands as the second most prevalent cause of disability in the United States, affecting over 80% of individuals at some point in their lives. Common triggers for low back pain include disc injuries, sciatica, heavy lifting, or other non-specific back injuries. Despite its widespread occurrence, responses to this often-debilitating condition vary among […]
Spinal fusion has become an increasingly common procedure, particularly among men with aging spines. However, caution is advised, and the decision to consider back surgery, especially spinal fusion, should only come after exploring nonsurgical or conservative options. Spinal fusion is a major operation where the surgeon connects two adjacent vertebrae to create a single unit. […]
A study conducted in Australia aimed to explore the triggers of low back pain in individuals. The study involved 1,000 people who sought treatment for low back pain at 300 different clinics. Participants were interviewed to determine when the back pain started and to identify possible triggers observed within two hours of its onset. The […]
Many individuals dealing with back pain are familiar with the routine: time is often the ultimate healer for this ailment. Over the course of weeks to months, the pain tends to subside, allowing a gradual return to normal life. During this period, maintaining as much activity as possible and relying on over-the-counter pain relievers can […]
The notion that changes in weather, such as impending storms, can affect back pain has been a common belief among many individuals, especially older adults. However, a study conducted by Australian researchers challenges this perception. The research, led by Daniel Steffens from the George Institute for Global Health at the University of Sydney, followed nearly […]
Older adults experiencing new-onset back pain often undergo CT scans or MRIs, despite current guidelines from the American College of Radiology. The guidelines suggest that early MRIs are “appropriate” for individuals aged 70 and older with new-onset back pain. However, a study from the University of Washington challenges this practice, indicating that such scans are […]