By Jonathan Callinan
Cranial Osteopathy is considered a holistic treatment, as it not only conducts cures for the head but also provides treatment for the body as a whole. As can be seen below it may benefit a variety of physical and mental conditions, which can be successful for all ages, particularly for babies, children and individuals with severe or unresolved issues.
Cranial Osteopathy is one technique used to retain a sense of stability and equilibrium between the many interconnected systems and structures within our bodies. Moreover it provides natural pain relief for the body.
This form of Osteopathy, whilst being gentle has a powerful effect upon the deeper systems of the body, which incorporate the membranes, nerves and bones. Instant relief is often experienced throughout the whole body, when stress and tension is relieved, using these techniques.
Within the sessions, the Osteopath, via skilled 'palpitation', senses limitations in the movement patterns of the body's structures and fluids. The intention upon finding any restrictions is to treat and alleviate any pain using realignment techniques, which also intends to restore sacral rhythm to optimum pace.
Cranial Osteopathy may benefit a wide range of physical and mental conditions including; Arthritis, Cerebral Palsy, Dyslexia, Headaches, Insomnia, Neck Pain, Sinusitis and Stress - emotional and physical.
At the initial consultation with the Osteopath the therapist will need to ascertain whether you may have any prior injuries or if you are currently taking any medication. In addition a physical assessment may be necessary and may entail testing reflexes, blood pressure and observing the clients standing and sitting posture and level of movement.
To examine the cranium, the head is typically gently held by the Osteopath, the Osteopath can then feel and discover how the body reacts to the realignment corrections. Furthermore the Osteopath by supporting the head senses the movement of the bones, thus determining the way the membranes move and how the spinal fluid circulates around the brain. By discovering this rhythm the Osteopath can work in unison with the client's body.
Most people become deeply relaxed as the tension is gradually drawn out of their body. Once the Osteopath has determined where the problem is manifesting itself, they will give you an explanation, make a diagnosis of your condition, recommend a suitable course of treatment and you may be advised on any lifestyle or dietary changes which would compliment your treatment.
Side effects may occur and involve, light-headedness or a feeling of tiredness. These effects could last from a few minutes to up a day after the treatment. If the side effects continue for any longer than 24 hours, consult your Cranial Osteopath.
Cranial Osteopathy is proven to be a safe and beneficial therapy, which is used by people of all ages. The advantages of this therapy are widely acknowledged within the healthcare profession.
It is wise to research and select a therapist who is either a member of, or accredited by, an association or professional body. Cranial Osteopaths are obligated to a code of ethics and procedure that determines the therapy is carried out in a suitable and safe environment. These regulations guarantee a specialist who has undergone certifiable training and receives professional up-skilling.
Jonathan Callinan is the director of The Wellness Directory LTD, an online holistic health resource and practitioner network.
Article Source: www.ezinearticles.com
Tuesday, 17 November 2009
What Is Osteopathy?
By Nitima S
Osteopathy is a holistic approach to human body care which is very unique in its own way. It consists of techniques that use hands to influence the way a body works and its theory is a simple one: for anyone to remain in excellent health, all parts of the body must function together in synchronization. If one part of the body is limited, the remainder of body compensates for that limitation and that sometimes lead to discomfort, stiffness, headaches or infection. When a body is in such a discomfort, osteopathy is used as a complementary therapy to conventional medicine.
Osteopaths are primarily trained as health care practitioners who see an individual as an integrated whole. Patients often seek treatment from an osteopath without referral from their general physician. By manoeuvring the muscles, joints, connective tissues, nervous, respiratory and immune system; osteopaths not only cure the problem area, but also give a feeling of overall well being. It is for this reason osteopathy is often seen as a form of manual medicine that can empower the systems of body with strength to heal the primary root causes of diseases and illnesses.
The practice of osteopathy was founded and established by Dr. Andrew Taylor Still in the 1880s. His aim was to use manual techniques with hands to enhance the blood circulation in body and provide relief to a sufferer. He was against the use of medicines and argued that every individual has the potential of curing itself provided an appropriate knowledge is imparted to him. He stressed on using a broad range of hands-on techniques to calm the problem/infection region which included soft tissue stretching, deep physical pressure, and mobilisation or manipulation of joints.
Osteopathy is very beneficial for our general health as well. The treatment in itself is not preventative and can be used as a routine practice as well. Osteopaths value the body's inborn capability as a self-regulating mechanism and only intervene when pain or discomfort subsides. One of the major benefits of osteopathy is the overall improvement in mobility and structure of the body. In addition to of this, other systems such as nervous and circulatory systems of the body operate with more orderliness and chances of non functionality of any part minimizes automatically.
Most people have a belief that osteopathy is only for bones correction. In reality however, osteopathic healing can be beneficial in a wide range of conditions such as stress management, menstrual pains, wrong postures, strain injury, nervous disorder, digestion problems, stiffness in body, soreness in jaw, limited mobility due to joint pain or other issues etc. By using the natural healing techniques, an osteopath can cure these illnesses for a long term and ensure that all the body's components are in balance and in sync with each other.
Article Source: www.ezinearticles.com
Osteopathy is a holistic approach to human body care which is very unique in its own way. It consists of techniques that use hands to influence the way a body works and its theory is a simple one: for anyone to remain in excellent health, all parts of the body must function together in synchronization. If one part of the body is limited, the remainder of body compensates for that limitation and that sometimes lead to discomfort, stiffness, headaches or infection. When a body is in such a discomfort, osteopathy is used as a complementary therapy to conventional medicine.
Osteopaths are primarily trained as health care practitioners who see an individual as an integrated whole. Patients often seek treatment from an osteopath without referral from their general physician. By manoeuvring the muscles, joints, connective tissues, nervous, respiratory and immune system; osteopaths not only cure the problem area, but also give a feeling of overall well being. It is for this reason osteopathy is often seen as a form of manual medicine that can empower the systems of body with strength to heal the primary root causes of diseases and illnesses.
The practice of osteopathy was founded and established by Dr. Andrew Taylor Still in the 1880s. His aim was to use manual techniques with hands to enhance the blood circulation in body and provide relief to a sufferer. He was against the use of medicines and argued that every individual has the potential of curing itself provided an appropriate knowledge is imparted to him. He stressed on using a broad range of hands-on techniques to calm the problem/infection region which included soft tissue stretching, deep physical pressure, and mobilisation or manipulation of joints.
Osteopathy is very beneficial for our general health as well. The treatment in itself is not preventative and can be used as a routine practice as well. Osteopaths value the body's inborn capability as a self-regulating mechanism and only intervene when pain or discomfort subsides. One of the major benefits of osteopathy is the overall improvement in mobility and structure of the body. In addition to of this, other systems such as nervous and circulatory systems of the body operate with more orderliness and chances of non functionality of any part minimizes automatically.
Most people have a belief that osteopathy is only for bones correction. In reality however, osteopathic healing can be beneficial in a wide range of conditions such as stress management, menstrual pains, wrong postures, strain injury, nervous disorder, digestion problems, stiffness in body, soreness in jaw, limited mobility due to joint pain or other issues etc. By using the natural healing techniques, an osteopath can cure these illnesses for a long term and ensure that all the body's components are in balance and in sync with each other.
Article Source: www.ezinearticles.com
Types Of Scoliosis
By Kent Pinkerton
There are several types of scoliosis. Each of them are named and defined according to the age, cause of scoliosis and spinal curvature. There are two basic types of scoliosis, structural and nonstructural. Structural scoliosis is caused by neuromuscular diseases, certain infections, birth defects, injury, connective tissue disorders, metabolic diseases, rheumatic diseases, tumors and other unknown factors. Nonstructural or functional scoliosis is reasoned by underlying conditions such as a difference in leg length, muscle spasms, or inflammatory conditions including appendicitis.
The most common type of scoliosis based on age is idiopathic scoliosis. As the word indicates, the cause is unknown. It affects about 4% of the population, commonly females. The reasons may include differences in leg length, hereditary conditions, injury, infections and tumors.
Idiopathic scoliosis is subdivided into three categories: infantile, juvenile and adolescent. Infantile scoliosis extends from birth to age three. Juvenile scoliosis is caused between the ages three and nine. As the child grows, there is a possibility to slow down the curve progression. Adolescent scoliosis extends from 10 to 18. It is the most common type of idiopathic scoliosis in the United States and can be discovered and treated in childhood or adolescence. It occurs in teenagers just at the growth spurt of puberty.
Other types of scoliosis are congenital, neuromuscular and degenerative. Congenital scoliosis is a rare type of scoliosis caused by an abnormally shaped bone that presents at birth. It occurs throughout the fetal development. Absence of vertebrae, partially formed vertebrae, failure of the vertebrae to form normally and the lack of separation of vertebrae are considered to be the reasons behind this condition. Neuromuscular scoliosis is a lateral curvature of the spine occurring due to muscular weakness or neuromuscular disease such as cerebral palsy, spina bifida, paralytic conditions, spinal cord tumors, neurofibromatosis and muscular dystrophy. Degenerative scoliosis happens in adults due to weakening of the spine with aging.
Scoliosis is also categorized on the basis of the spinal curvature. Thus Thoracic curve scoliosis, Lumbar curve scoliosis and Thoracolumbar curve scoliosis are found.
Article Source: www.ezinearticles.com
There are several types of scoliosis. Each of them are named and defined according to the age, cause of scoliosis and spinal curvature. There are two basic types of scoliosis, structural and nonstructural. Structural scoliosis is caused by neuromuscular diseases, certain infections, birth defects, injury, connective tissue disorders, metabolic diseases, rheumatic diseases, tumors and other unknown factors. Nonstructural or functional scoliosis is reasoned by underlying conditions such as a difference in leg length, muscle spasms, or inflammatory conditions including appendicitis.
The most common type of scoliosis based on age is idiopathic scoliosis. As the word indicates, the cause is unknown. It affects about 4% of the population, commonly females. The reasons may include differences in leg length, hereditary conditions, injury, infections and tumors.
Idiopathic scoliosis is subdivided into three categories: infantile, juvenile and adolescent. Infantile scoliosis extends from birth to age three. Juvenile scoliosis is caused between the ages three and nine. As the child grows, there is a possibility to slow down the curve progression. Adolescent scoliosis extends from 10 to 18. It is the most common type of idiopathic scoliosis in the United States and can be discovered and treated in childhood or adolescence. It occurs in teenagers just at the growth spurt of puberty.
Other types of scoliosis are congenital, neuromuscular and degenerative. Congenital scoliosis is a rare type of scoliosis caused by an abnormally shaped bone that presents at birth. It occurs throughout the fetal development. Absence of vertebrae, partially formed vertebrae, failure of the vertebrae to form normally and the lack of separation of vertebrae are considered to be the reasons behind this condition. Neuromuscular scoliosis is a lateral curvature of the spine occurring due to muscular weakness or neuromuscular disease such as cerebral palsy, spina bifida, paralytic conditions, spinal cord tumors, neurofibromatosis and muscular dystrophy. Degenerative scoliosis happens in adults due to weakening of the spine with aging.
Scoliosis is also categorized on the basis of the spinal curvature. Thus Thoracic curve scoliosis, Lumbar curve scoliosis and Thoracolumbar curve scoliosis are found.
Article Source: www.ezinearticles.com
Sciatica Causes and Treatment
By Keira Adams
The human anatomy is made up of a number of amazing systems that are all intended to ensure the proper functioning and well being of the body. In particular, one of those incredible systems is the cardiovascular structure which comprises the veins, arteries and heart. This system facilitates the circulation of blood to each part of the body. It supplies oxygen to the arteries and transports non-oxygenated blood through the veins.
Another extraordinary anatomical process is the nervous system, which acts in collaboration with the spinal cord and the brain to make sure you are suitably sensitive to feelings of cold, heat, and pain. As well, it's an intricate communication system through which the brain transmits impulses by way of the nervous system in order to direct the body to perform certain functions.
Most people don't spend a lot of time thinking about these processes unless something goes wrong. This principle also holds true when the nervous system is functioning normally. But if something goes wrong, you will surely become aware of it very quickly.
This is certainly the case as it concerns a certain kind of pain experienced in the nervous system. This pain is a result of a condition called sciatica. If you're suffering from this problem, it's essential that you learn as much as you can about sciatica causes and treatments.
The first thing you should know is that it's a highly uncomfortable disorder related to the sciatic nerves. These are the largest nerves in the human body. They start at the base of the spine and continue down the length of both legs.
The most prevalent symptom is pain, ranging in degree from moderate to extreme. The pain usually starts at the hip and extends down the entire length of the leg. As well, you may feel numbness in the affected areas.
Some of the causes of sciatica, particularly for those who are older, involve the deterioration of the spine which results from the normal wear and tear of life. As the spine deteriorates the vertebrae press on each other and eventually pinch the sciatic nerves. In this case, sciatic nerve problems may be relieved by performing stretching exercises or by using cold compresses.
Another common cause of this condition is a herniated disc, which is a medical condition in which the buffer material located between the vertebrae starts to bulge. This puts undue pressure on the sciatic nerve, resulting in the pain and distress of sciatica. Surgery is one of the treatment methods that you might want to try in order to relieve the sciatica pain resulting from a herniated disc. But before resorting to surgery, you should first try exercise or ice packs.
Sciatica is a painful condition that affects the lower body from the hips through the legs. It's the result of pressure being placed on the sciatic nerve, located at the base of the spine. Fortunately, the condition isn't life threatening and it's not difficult to get sciatic nerve relief.
Article Source: www.ezinearticles.com
The human anatomy is made up of a number of amazing systems that are all intended to ensure the proper functioning and well being of the body. In particular, one of those incredible systems is the cardiovascular structure which comprises the veins, arteries and heart. This system facilitates the circulation of blood to each part of the body. It supplies oxygen to the arteries and transports non-oxygenated blood through the veins.
Another extraordinary anatomical process is the nervous system, which acts in collaboration with the spinal cord and the brain to make sure you are suitably sensitive to feelings of cold, heat, and pain. As well, it's an intricate communication system through which the brain transmits impulses by way of the nervous system in order to direct the body to perform certain functions.
Most people don't spend a lot of time thinking about these processes unless something goes wrong. This principle also holds true when the nervous system is functioning normally. But if something goes wrong, you will surely become aware of it very quickly.
This is certainly the case as it concerns a certain kind of pain experienced in the nervous system. This pain is a result of a condition called sciatica. If you're suffering from this problem, it's essential that you learn as much as you can about sciatica causes and treatments.
The first thing you should know is that it's a highly uncomfortable disorder related to the sciatic nerves. These are the largest nerves in the human body. They start at the base of the spine and continue down the length of both legs.
The most prevalent symptom is pain, ranging in degree from moderate to extreme. The pain usually starts at the hip and extends down the entire length of the leg. As well, you may feel numbness in the affected areas.
Some of the causes of sciatica, particularly for those who are older, involve the deterioration of the spine which results from the normal wear and tear of life. As the spine deteriorates the vertebrae press on each other and eventually pinch the sciatic nerves. In this case, sciatic nerve problems may be relieved by performing stretching exercises or by using cold compresses.
Another common cause of this condition is a herniated disc, which is a medical condition in which the buffer material located between the vertebrae starts to bulge. This puts undue pressure on the sciatic nerve, resulting in the pain and distress of sciatica. Surgery is one of the treatment methods that you might want to try in order to relieve the sciatica pain resulting from a herniated disc. But before resorting to surgery, you should first try exercise or ice packs.
Sciatica is a painful condition that affects the lower body from the hips through the legs. It's the result of pressure being placed on the sciatic nerve, located at the base of the spine. Fortunately, the condition isn't life threatening and it's not difficult to get sciatic nerve relief.
Article Source: www.ezinearticles.com
Neck Pain in Children And How To Prevent It
By Abhishek Agarwal
Childhood and teenage life are periods of life that are associated with one's rapid growth, mentally and physically. However, sometimes our children have problems with their neck, back, or even shoulder. This clearly impedes our children's growth and these pains have to be cured as soon as possible so that their growth will not be stunted.
There are several major factors that lead to neck pain in children and teenager. Carrying heavy books in their backpacks everyday can be a major problem. Sometimes the weight of the loads in their backpacks exceeds the maximum capacity that these children can support. As a result, their shoulder, neck and back will enervate easily and the result is neck and back pain. Another important factor that cannot be ignored is our children's outdoor activity. As they are very active, they tend to play dangerous sports or any other forms of entertainment. For example, while playing rugby or soccer, our children frequently slide on the ground to tackle their opponent. They also voluntarily land on the ground heavily to compete for the loose ball. When these techniques are not properly practiced, the result is back and neck pain that will affect their growth adversely.
One way to avert our children from back and neck pain is to wear their backpacks properly. Choose backpacks that are equipped with straps because they are useful to distribute the weight of the backpack loads so that the children's neck and shoulder will not be strained heavily. Before going to school also, make sure that your children only carry the necessary books and utensils so that they do not have to carry heavy loads every time they want to go to school. This reduces the chance of them suffering from back and neck pain. The backpacks also have to be not so low but not too high when your children carry them.
Another way to prevent neck and back pain is by avoiding your children playing contact sports frequently. Sometimes you can allow your children to play these sports, but when they just recover from any illness or when they are tired, do not let them play these contact sports. Their body will not be strong enough to receive the enormous force from their friends making contact with them, and they can suffer from neck and back pain. Also, when your children tell you that they have aches in their back and neck, do not just ignore them. You have to take it seriously and you can bring your children to the nearest doctor.
In conclusion, back and neck pain can not be looked down by any parents. Pay extra attention to your childrens activity and also backpacks so that they will not have back and neck pain.
Article Source: www.ezinearticles.com
Childhood and teenage life are periods of life that are associated with one's rapid growth, mentally and physically. However, sometimes our children have problems with their neck, back, or even shoulder. This clearly impedes our children's growth and these pains have to be cured as soon as possible so that their growth will not be stunted.
There are several major factors that lead to neck pain in children and teenager. Carrying heavy books in their backpacks everyday can be a major problem. Sometimes the weight of the loads in their backpacks exceeds the maximum capacity that these children can support. As a result, their shoulder, neck and back will enervate easily and the result is neck and back pain. Another important factor that cannot be ignored is our children's outdoor activity. As they are very active, they tend to play dangerous sports or any other forms of entertainment. For example, while playing rugby or soccer, our children frequently slide on the ground to tackle their opponent. They also voluntarily land on the ground heavily to compete for the loose ball. When these techniques are not properly practiced, the result is back and neck pain that will affect their growth adversely.
One way to avert our children from back and neck pain is to wear their backpacks properly. Choose backpacks that are equipped with straps because they are useful to distribute the weight of the backpack loads so that the children's neck and shoulder will not be strained heavily. Before going to school also, make sure that your children only carry the necessary books and utensils so that they do not have to carry heavy loads every time they want to go to school. This reduces the chance of them suffering from back and neck pain. The backpacks also have to be not so low but not too high when your children carry them.
Another way to prevent neck and back pain is by avoiding your children playing contact sports frequently. Sometimes you can allow your children to play these sports, but when they just recover from any illness or when they are tired, do not let them play these contact sports. Their body will not be strong enough to receive the enormous force from their friends making contact with them, and they can suffer from neck and back pain. Also, when your children tell you that they have aches in their back and neck, do not just ignore them. You have to take it seriously and you can bring your children to the nearest doctor.
In conclusion, back and neck pain can not be looked down by any parents. Pay extra attention to your childrens activity and also backpacks so that they will not have back and neck pain.
Article Source: www.ezinearticles.com
Dealing With Back Pain and Sciatica
By M Newbold
If you experience a burning sensation along the spine, its quite possible you are suffering from sciatica. The sciatic nerve is the largest nerve in the body, which runs from the spinal cord, through the buttocks and down the back of each leg.
Usually, sciatica is experienced by people with a prolapsed or slipped disc. A slipped disc is actually not a disc that has slipped, but has herniated allowing the softer internal material to come through to aggravate the roots of the sciatic nerve along the spinal cord. In some cases sciatica can be experienced by women during pregnancy or child-birth, and also through incorrect lifting of heavy objects, or through stress.
Sciatic symptoms can vary from mild to very painful, with a common description being that of experiencing shooting pains running down the spine, buttocks and legs. Some people also experience pins and needles, or numbness in their feet and legs, along with a general feeling of weakness.
In some cases, sciatica can be a temporary condition that eases with time, or in the case of pregnancy related sciatica, can disappear once the woman has given birth, and her body has returned to normal.
Some relief can be gained by laying on your back on the floor for 20 minutes, with your knees bent and your feet flat on the floor, with your head propped up by a couple of pillows or a telephone directory.
Aromatherapy massage using lavender and chamomile essential oils can also help relieve the discomfort.
As with other back problems, a warm bath with lavender oil can be most beneficial to the sufferer, as can some old fashioned remedies such as rubbing half a lemon over the affected area, or drinking celery tea, or elderberry wine.
Keeping your bones and nerves healthy is very important if you want to prevent further bouts of sciatica. Fish bones are a great source of natural calcium. Try to choose fresh or tinned fish where you can eat up the bones too. Magnesium may be beneficial in preventing the progression of bone loss. Try taking a supplement, adding brewers yeast, or eating foods rich in magnesium such as nuts and soyabeans.
Vitamin D helps the body absorb calcium, so you will be getting extra by eating oily fish such as mackerel, sardines and salmon, which you are eating to get the calcium from the bones as mentioned above. Vitamin D is not called the sunshine vitamin for nothing, and by far the best way of getting a dose is by taking a walk in the sunshine. Vitamin D is produced in the skin as a natural reaction to sunlight, and the body gets most of its Vitamin D in this way.
Increasing your intake of boron is beneficial. Boron is a trace mineral, which can be found in plants. Recent research has indicated that post-menopausal women who increase their intake of boron can prevent calcium loss in bones, so tucking into extra serving of organically grow fruit and root vegetables, such as potatoes, carrots, beetroot, turnips and parsnips can help keep your bones healthy. (Good quality soil is rich in boron, so make sure you buy organic wherever possible).
If you find that your sciatica symptoms become worse, or don't seem to ease over time, then visit your GP or physician to make sure there are no other underlying causes.
M Newbold is a prolific writer with an interest in family matters, health and fitness, food and nutrition, diet and exercise, and general well-being.
For further help and expert advice in the care and management of your back problem, visit: http://www.backpaincompendium.com or http://www.expertbackpain.weebly.com.
Article Source: www.ezinearticles.com
If you experience a burning sensation along the spine, its quite possible you are suffering from sciatica. The sciatic nerve is the largest nerve in the body, which runs from the spinal cord, through the buttocks and down the back of each leg.
Usually, sciatica is experienced by people with a prolapsed or slipped disc. A slipped disc is actually not a disc that has slipped, but has herniated allowing the softer internal material to come through to aggravate the roots of the sciatic nerve along the spinal cord. In some cases sciatica can be experienced by women during pregnancy or child-birth, and also through incorrect lifting of heavy objects, or through stress.
Sciatic symptoms can vary from mild to very painful, with a common description being that of experiencing shooting pains running down the spine, buttocks and legs. Some people also experience pins and needles, or numbness in their feet and legs, along with a general feeling of weakness.
In some cases, sciatica can be a temporary condition that eases with time, or in the case of pregnancy related sciatica, can disappear once the woman has given birth, and her body has returned to normal.
Some relief can be gained by laying on your back on the floor for 20 minutes, with your knees bent and your feet flat on the floor, with your head propped up by a couple of pillows or a telephone directory.
Aromatherapy massage using lavender and chamomile essential oils can also help relieve the discomfort.
As with other back problems, a warm bath with lavender oil can be most beneficial to the sufferer, as can some old fashioned remedies such as rubbing half a lemon over the affected area, or drinking celery tea, or elderberry wine.
Keeping your bones and nerves healthy is very important if you want to prevent further bouts of sciatica. Fish bones are a great source of natural calcium. Try to choose fresh or tinned fish where you can eat up the bones too. Magnesium may be beneficial in preventing the progression of bone loss. Try taking a supplement, adding brewers yeast, or eating foods rich in magnesium such as nuts and soyabeans.
Vitamin D helps the body absorb calcium, so you will be getting extra by eating oily fish such as mackerel, sardines and salmon, which you are eating to get the calcium from the bones as mentioned above. Vitamin D is not called the sunshine vitamin for nothing, and by far the best way of getting a dose is by taking a walk in the sunshine. Vitamin D is produced in the skin as a natural reaction to sunlight, and the body gets most of its Vitamin D in this way.
Increasing your intake of boron is beneficial. Boron is a trace mineral, which can be found in plants. Recent research has indicated that post-menopausal women who increase their intake of boron can prevent calcium loss in bones, so tucking into extra serving of organically grow fruit and root vegetables, such as potatoes, carrots, beetroot, turnips and parsnips can help keep your bones healthy. (Good quality soil is rich in boron, so make sure you buy organic wherever possible).
If you find that your sciatica symptoms become worse, or don't seem to ease over time, then visit your GP or physician to make sure there are no other underlying causes.
M Newbold is a prolific writer with an interest in family matters, health and fitness, food and nutrition, diet and exercise, and general well-being.
For further help and expert advice in the care and management of your back problem, visit: http://www.backpaincompendium.com or http://www.expertbackpain.weebly.com.
Article Source: www.ezinearticles.com
5 Secret Causes to Neck Pain And What To Do About Them
By Vince Leone, D.C.
SECRET #1: THE MAJORITY OF ALL NECK PAIN IS MUSCULOSKELETAL IN ORIGIN
According to the American Academy Of Orthopedic Surgeons... "most cases of neck pain come from problems in the muscles, joints, bones and nerves and usually does NOT come from organic problems like diseases or infections". Here is why that is important: If you are relying on drugs or pain medications to relieve your pain, you may only be masking the symptoms, while the problem may be getting worse.
The good news is that musculoskeletal problems are relatively easy to correct if they are diagnosed properly and treated properly. The longer you wait, however, the more difficult it can be, so determining the root cause of the problem is the most important first step to getting a treatment that really works.
SECRET #2: EXERCISE CAN ACTUALLY BE HARMFUL
This is probably not what you want to hear. Especially if you have been through rounds of physical therapy or even tried to exercise the problem away yourself without any relief, or worse, it even increased your pain. You see, if you have a disc or nerve problem, exercise can actually be harmful to you. Certain directions like twisting or bending into the wrong positions can actually damage the disc or even pinch the nerve and make your pain worse. And...if you have untreated muscle imbalances from poor posture, the last thing you want to do is go to the gym and exercise. Untreated muscle imbalances get worse during exercise. Again, the good news is that there are simple muscle tests and even high tech computer equipment like Surface EMG that can show muscle imbalance or a pinched nerve. These tests are painless and can immediately locate the problem.
SECRET #3: ONLY 1 IN 100 PEOPLE WITH NECK PAIN NEED SURGERY
According to the U.S. Federal guideline on back pain, "Surgery has been found to be helpful in only 1 in 100 cases of back problems." If you have been told you need surgery, you should get a second and a third opinion and reserve this as a last resort. You may be also interested to know that once tissues like muscles, ligaments and bones have been surgically cut, these tissues never regain their normal ability to stretch and move.
Rest easy though, because in most cases, non-invasive therapies that include joint and posture realignment, along with specific stretching and low impact stabilization exercises can usually fix neck pain without having to resort to surgery.
SECRET #4: JUST BECAUSE YOU HAVE ARTHRITIS IN YOUR NECK DOES NOT MEAN YOU HAVE TO HAVE NECK PAIN OR STIFFNESS
This is a huge lie that is perpetuated by drug companies and even some health care professionals. Since so many people in our population have arthritis, most people are told that they have to live with it...and that this is the cause of their pain and stiffness. Not true!
Thousands of people who have arthritis have absolutely no pain at all and live a pain free, active life with great flexibility. How do they do that?
It is important to understand first, that arthritis is usually caused by imbalances in the joints and muscles that begin to break down the joints over time and cause arthritis if the imbalances are not corrected. Obviously, the longer you wait, the harder it is to correct the degeneration.
People who live pain free with arthritis increase their time every day in motion (moving the body-the more the better), and even more important, getting the alignment of the spine and surrounding joints corrected.
SECRET #5: PROBLEMS IN THE NECK CAN ALSO BE RESPONSIBLE FOR HEADACHES AND CARPAL TUNNEL SYMPTOMS
If you also suffer from headaches or carpal tunnel symptoms, your problem may be originating in the neck. In fact, it is much more common than you would imagine. It is not unusual for the majority of our patients with neck pain to also have headaches or carpal tunnel symptoms. This is caused by a structural misalignment putting pressure on nerves that either travel up into the skull or down into the arms and hands. Pressure on nerves cause dysfunction, and dysfunction comes in the form of pain, numbness or other altered sensations.
Here is why: certain muscles in the neck develop "trigger points" (small knots in the muscles) from imbalances or repetitive stress or even poor posture and spinal misalignments. These "trigger points" then "refer" pain to different areas of the body. In the case of headaches for example, 2 small muscles in the neck are often responsible for a high percentage of all headaches.
And... there is a specific location between the muscles in the neck and collar bone, that when pinched, cause pain and tingling down the arm or into the hand and fingers. Often, this is misdiagnosed as carpal tunnel syndrome. Again, the good news is that this is relatively easy to fix (without drugs or surgery) in most cases if a handful of simple, painless muscle and orthopedic tests are performed and more serious problems are ruled out.
Article Source: www.ezinearticles.com
SECRET #1: THE MAJORITY OF ALL NECK PAIN IS MUSCULOSKELETAL IN ORIGIN
According to the American Academy Of Orthopedic Surgeons... "most cases of neck pain come from problems in the muscles, joints, bones and nerves and usually does NOT come from organic problems like diseases or infections". Here is why that is important: If you are relying on drugs or pain medications to relieve your pain, you may only be masking the symptoms, while the problem may be getting worse.
The good news is that musculoskeletal problems are relatively easy to correct if they are diagnosed properly and treated properly. The longer you wait, however, the more difficult it can be, so determining the root cause of the problem is the most important first step to getting a treatment that really works.
SECRET #2: EXERCISE CAN ACTUALLY BE HARMFUL
This is probably not what you want to hear. Especially if you have been through rounds of physical therapy or even tried to exercise the problem away yourself without any relief, or worse, it even increased your pain. You see, if you have a disc or nerve problem, exercise can actually be harmful to you. Certain directions like twisting or bending into the wrong positions can actually damage the disc or even pinch the nerve and make your pain worse. And...if you have untreated muscle imbalances from poor posture, the last thing you want to do is go to the gym and exercise. Untreated muscle imbalances get worse during exercise. Again, the good news is that there are simple muscle tests and even high tech computer equipment like Surface EMG that can show muscle imbalance or a pinched nerve. These tests are painless and can immediately locate the problem.
SECRET #3: ONLY 1 IN 100 PEOPLE WITH NECK PAIN NEED SURGERY
According to the U.S. Federal guideline on back pain, "Surgery has been found to be helpful in only 1 in 100 cases of back problems." If you have been told you need surgery, you should get a second and a third opinion and reserve this as a last resort. You may be also interested to know that once tissues like muscles, ligaments and bones have been surgically cut, these tissues never regain their normal ability to stretch and move.
Rest easy though, because in most cases, non-invasive therapies that include joint and posture realignment, along with specific stretching and low impact stabilization exercises can usually fix neck pain without having to resort to surgery.
SECRET #4: JUST BECAUSE YOU HAVE ARTHRITIS IN YOUR NECK DOES NOT MEAN YOU HAVE TO HAVE NECK PAIN OR STIFFNESS
This is a huge lie that is perpetuated by drug companies and even some health care professionals. Since so many people in our population have arthritis, most people are told that they have to live with it...and that this is the cause of their pain and stiffness. Not true!
Thousands of people who have arthritis have absolutely no pain at all and live a pain free, active life with great flexibility. How do they do that?
It is important to understand first, that arthritis is usually caused by imbalances in the joints and muscles that begin to break down the joints over time and cause arthritis if the imbalances are not corrected. Obviously, the longer you wait, the harder it is to correct the degeneration.
People who live pain free with arthritis increase their time every day in motion (moving the body-the more the better), and even more important, getting the alignment of the spine and surrounding joints corrected.
SECRET #5: PROBLEMS IN THE NECK CAN ALSO BE RESPONSIBLE FOR HEADACHES AND CARPAL TUNNEL SYMPTOMS
If you also suffer from headaches or carpal tunnel symptoms, your problem may be originating in the neck. In fact, it is much more common than you would imagine. It is not unusual for the majority of our patients with neck pain to also have headaches or carpal tunnel symptoms. This is caused by a structural misalignment putting pressure on nerves that either travel up into the skull or down into the arms and hands. Pressure on nerves cause dysfunction, and dysfunction comes in the form of pain, numbness or other altered sensations.
Here is why: certain muscles in the neck develop "trigger points" (small knots in the muscles) from imbalances or repetitive stress or even poor posture and spinal misalignments. These "trigger points" then "refer" pain to different areas of the body. In the case of headaches for example, 2 small muscles in the neck are often responsible for a high percentage of all headaches.
And... there is a specific location between the muscles in the neck and collar bone, that when pinched, cause pain and tingling down the arm or into the hand and fingers. Often, this is misdiagnosed as carpal tunnel syndrome. Again, the good news is that this is relatively easy to fix (without drugs or surgery) in most cases if a handful of simple, painless muscle and orthopedic tests are performed and more serious problems are ruled out.
Article Source: www.ezinearticles.com
I'm Pregnant and My Back Hurts
By Terry O' Brien
Back pain during pregnancy is a very common problem. Three out of four women experience some degree of back pain during pregnancy.
For some women, symptoms may begin before they are showing and last throughout pregnancy. The cause of back pain during pregnancy is related to many factors: change in body posture, hormones that cause the relaxation of connective tissue in the body, poor body mechanics and muscle fatigue. The actual incidence of a pinched nerve during pregnancy is very rare.
So, how do you relieve and manage back pain during pregnancy?
Regular aerobic exercise and general conditioning exercise, such as walking, swimming, and bicycling, are the best methods. These types of exercises increase muscle tone and strength, improve endurance and decrease fatigue. Swimming and water aerobics are also excellent exercises for pregnant women. Frequent position changes, including stretching throughout the day, sleeping on your side with a pillow between your legs, and using proper posture and body mechanics are also important in maintaining a healthy back. Care should be taken to use the larger muscles of the legs and arms in moving objects to prevent muscle strain. You may strengthen your leg muscles by doing lunges and squats.
If you experience back pain, you may apply moist heat and/or cold packs as needed to decrease pain. You can wear a pregnancy support or SI (sacroiliac) belt to decrease pain and improve posture. Medications, including over-the-counter ones, should be taken only under the direction of your physician or health professional.
If you have persistent back pain, which interferes with your overall function, talk to your GP urgently.
One of the best methods in restoring function and self-sufficiency in persons with disabilities and pain is utilising Neuroskeletal Therapy, which is safe and gentle during pregnancy.
Remember that most women who experience back pain during pregnancy do not have symptoms after delivery. Back strengthening exercises done throughout pregnancy will help you during labor and delivery and while caring for your growing infant after delivery.
Article Source: www.amazines.com
Back pain during pregnancy is a very common problem. Three out of four women experience some degree of back pain during pregnancy.
For some women, symptoms may begin before they are showing and last throughout pregnancy. The cause of back pain during pregnancy is related to many factors: change in body posture, hormones that cause the relaxation of connective tissue in the body, poor body mechanics and muscle fatigue. The actual incidence of a pinched nerve during pregnancy is very rare.
So, how do you relieve and manage back pain during pregnancy?
Regular aerobic exercise and general conditioning exercise, such as walking, swimming, and bicycling, are the best methods. These types of exercises increase muscle tone and strength, improve endurance and decrease fatigue. Swimming and water aerobics are also excellent exercises for pregnant women. Frequent position changes, including stretching throughout the day, sleeping on your side with a pillow between your legs, and using proper posture and body mechanics are also important in maintaining a healthy back. Care should be taken to use the larger muscles of the legs and arms in moving objects to prevent muscle strain. You may strengthen your leg muscles by doing lunges and squats.
If you experience back pain, you may apply moist heat and/or cold packs as needed to decrease pain. You can wear a pregnancy support or SI (sacroiliac) belt to decrease pain and improve posture. Medications, including over-the-counter ones, should be taken only under the direction of your physician or health professional.
If you have persistent back pain, which interferes with your overall function, talk to your GP urgently.
One of the best methods in restoring function and self-sufficiency in persons with disabilities and pain is utilising Neuroskeletal Therapy, which is safe and gentle during pregnancy.
Remember that most women who experience back pain during pregnancy do not have symptoms after delivery. Back strengthening exercises done throughout pregnancy will help you during labor and delivery and while caring for your growing infant after delivery.
Article Source: www.amazines.com
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