Last updated 14 days ago
Chronic pain can be caused by a variety of conditions and creates daily challenges for millions of Americans. The most common area of chronic pain occurs in the back. As this news segment from ABC points out, a complete history combined with science helps with an accurate diagnosis of chronic pain. For treatment tips for pain relief, watch this video.
If you suffer from chronic back or neck pain, consider visiting a back specialist. At SpineOne, we offer a variety of treatments which can help you enjoy physical wellness and an active, healthy lifestyle. Call us today at (720) 251-2687 to learn more!
Last updated 18 days ago
Don't give in to back and neck pain. At SpineOne, we offer several options which can help relieve your pain. For more information, call us at (720) 251-2687. To learn more about spinal conditions, check out these resources.
- Learn how chiropractic therapy can be used to treat back pain in this article by the American Chiropractic Association.
Last updated 21 days ago
Referred pain can be a confusing phenomenon, as it involves pain which originates in one area of the body, but is felt in another. There are many theories regarding the mechanism that causes referred pain, but no definitive conclusions. Chronic referred pain can be caused by a spinal disorder and is generally associated with myofascial pain syndrome.
What Causes Referred Pain?
Myofascial pain syndrome is generally caused by repeated contractions of the muscles. These muscle contractions can be caused by the repetitive motions used in certain activities, such as painting, or due to stress. Sensitive areas can also develop after an injury. These sensitive areas can become trigger points which produce referred pain throughout the body. Oftentimes, referred pain is chronic and becomes more severe over time.
What are the Symptoms?
Chronic aches, pain, and muscle tenderness are all signs of myofascial pain syndrome. If pain persists or worsens after rest, massage, and basic home care, you may have developed trigger points. If left untreated, the resulting pain can lead to sleep problems and other health conditions, including fibromyalgia.
How is it Treated?
Several treatments are available for referred pain which can be used alone or in various combinations. Medical treatments include pain relievers, antidepressants, and sedatives. Medications to regulate sleep may also be used, but are generally not long-term solutions since they can be habit-forming. Physical therapy is another treatment option and can include stretching, massage, heat, and ultrasound therapy to increase circulation and relieve tension. You may also want to consider anti-inflammatory or numbing injections at the trigger point to relieve the referred pain. Acupuncture is another treatment option and can be used to reduce tension in the trigger points.
If you are suffering from chronic pain, consider visiting a back specialist. At SpineOne, we offer a variety of treatments, including physical therapy, chiropractic, and massage. Call us today at (720) 251-2687 to learn more about referred pain or to schedule a treatment consultation.
Last updated 24 days ago
Spondylolisthesis is a disorder which can occur in both children and adults. It can range from a mild condition, with minimal or no symptoms, to a severe condition, with intense pain and visible curvature in the spine. A back specialist can help diagnose and treat this condition at any stage.
What is Spondylolisthesis?
Spondylolisthesis is a condition in which one of the vertebrae located in the lower back shifts from its proper position. In children, the condition usually occurs between the fifth lumbar vertebra and the first bone in the pelvis. In adults, it occurs more frequently between the fourth and fifth lumbar vertebrae.
What Causes Spondylolisthesis?
In children, spondylolisthesis is usually caused by a birth defect or by trauma. In adults, arthritis, bone disease, and other degenerative diseases are most often the cause of spondylolisthesis. Activities which put a lot of stress on the bones, such as gymnastics, weight lifting, and football, can also put individuals at risk for traumatic or stress fractures of the lumbar vertebrae.
How Can Spondylolisthesis Be Prevented?
In some cases, spondylolisthesis is impossible to prevent. However, young people with back pain or swayed backs should avoid contact sports and activities which hyperextend the spine. An excessively curved back, chronic back pain, and discomfort in the thighs or buttocks can all be signs that you should talk to a back specialist about the prevention or treatment of spondylolisthesis.
How is Spondylolisthesis Treated?
Spondylolisthesis can be treated in a variety of ways. The treatment method chosen will depend upon the severity and cause of the condition, as well as the patient’s lifestyle. Anti-inflammatory medications can be effective for reducing pain, while a back brace or physical therapy can be used to strengthen and adjust the back. If these therapies are ineffective, surgery is an option, but there is a risk of nerve damage and other complications that you should discuss with a doctor.
If you are suffering from back pain, do not hesitate to visit a back specialist. At SpineOne, we diagnose and treat a variety of conditions using chiropractic therapy, massage, physical therapy, and surgery. Call us today at (720) 251-2687 to learn more.
Last updated 28 days ago
Back and neck pain are incredibly common, and many people believe that they simply need to live with the daily discomfort. At SpineOne, we offer several options which can help relieve your pain. For more information, call us at (720) 251-2687. To learn more about spinal conditions, check out these resources.
- The American Association of Neurological Surgeons offers information about herniated discs.
