Most of us will experience back pain at one time or another during our life. This can be acute pain from an injury or chronic pain related to a degenerative disease of the spine or from a medical condition.

It is important to be proactive and be examined by a qualified medical professional as soon as possible if you have severe back pain. But for many seniors chronic back pain is a fact of life and it directly impacts their quality of life. There are many forms of treatment that seem to bring some relief but there is no magic fix or cure for all problems of the spine.

Western medicine often uses medication, physical therapy and surgery to treat an ailing back. Holistic approaches may include acupuncture, chiropractic, biofeedback, massage and a number of other techniques to help improve back heath and to help the body heal itself. The complex interrelationship between bone, muscle, ligaments and nerves often makes problems of the spine very hard to treat. You may want to get an x-ray and or an MRI to decide what type of treatment will best meet your needs based upon your age and current health situation in order to see if there is more going on with your spine then just a strain. Reducing and managing the pain or being pain free is the goal of any treatment plan for your back as you evaluate the many different options.

very common cause of back pain is a result of muscle injury. This is usually brought about by stress which is normally the result of bending incorrectly or lifting while carrying excess weight. This type of back sprain is characterized by pain and stiffness that is evident within a few hours of the injury. It generally subsides within a day or two although more severe strains may last longer.

Some recurrent backaches are caused by inflammatory conditions such as osteoporosis brought on by loss of bone strength as a result of a reduction of calcium in your bones. The resulting degeneration of the joints in the backbone are often more painful in the morning. A slipped or prolapsed disk can also be to blame for the discomfort of back pain.

Back pain can also be caused by a spinal fracture which can result from a fall or other injury. A spinal fracture occurs when a vertebra collapses. Other medical causes of back pain are cancer and also spinal bone tumors. Some types of infections including kidney infections can also cause back pain.

Pain and tenderness on movement usually begins immediately or within a few hours of an injury or muscle tear. This can include any sprain or strain of the muscles or ligaments and is often noticed after lifting heavy objects.

If a lumbar disc is slopped or ruptured the pain is more severe. The back muscles go into painful spasms and the simple act of coughing or sneezing also creates pain in the back. Sciatica is different again in that the pain spreads from the back, down the buttock and down the leg.

It is rare for back pain to be considered as dangerous although some untreated symptoms may become dangerous. One such symptom is an untreated disk which may be pressing on the spinal cord. This, if left untreated, could lead to paralysis. Also, lower back pain caused by infection in the spinal vertebrae may be dangerous though these conditions in the spinal region are very rare.

Most strains and sprains of the back are easily treated and respond well to minimal treatment. Diet and exercise must be part of a treatment plan and also having the right kind of rest. Your sleeping surface or bed must offer enough firm support otherwise it will cause your spine to give you more discomfort. Sometimes the use of ice or anti-inflammatory medication as approved by your doctor can help reduce the inflammation. Heat can also provide immediate relief but be careful in how you use it as it can also cause muscles to become more inflamed. Gentle but firm massage and the application of liniment on the affected area, may also be a source of relief. Lifting and carrying of heavy objects should be avoided during the recovery period.

Using proper lifting and carrying techniques can often prevent lower back pain as can swimming and other exercises that strengthen the back and stomach muscles. In the elderly, persistent back problems may sometimes be a natural part of the aging process but the pain it causes can be properly managed to provide for a better quality of life.

Ed Heigl executive director Crestview Senior Living has worked in the senior housing industry for over 30 years.

The ancient Chinese therapy of cupping is being tested as a new treatment for knee arthritis.

The traditional remedy, popular with celebrities such as Gwyneth Paltrow, is being put through the rigours of a clinical trial.

Some research suggests that cupping, which involves placing heated cups upside down on the skin, can result in significant reduction in lower back pain compared with painkillers.

To read this article in full please click here.

Lower back pain is a common complaint, and if you suffer from it, the pain can make simple everyday activities like walking, taking the stairs, tying your shoes, and even sleeping unbearable. Although many people have chronic conditions or injuries that cause their discomfort, lifestyle choices may also be the culprit. Click here and see if you can make some changes to prevent the pain.

Back pain is a common condition and in the UK is considered to the largest cause of work related absence.  Back pain can be very uncomfortable but is not usually serious.

Back pain can affect anyone regardless of age, but is more common in the 35-55 year age group.

In the majority of cases the problems can be linked to the way that the bones, muscles and ligaments in the back are working together.  Click BackPainHelp more information from the NHS website.

In my various roles in life including mother, dancer, Pilates and Yoga teacher, I have always placed physical demands on my body.

During my younger days my body worked hard and did not complain but suddenly and without any warning things started to go wrong……

Suddenly I could no longer take my body for granted and I was experiencing back pain!

I had to stop work and look for solutions to my problem because I was suffering……

physically, financially and emotionally!

Having experienced severe back pain and nerve related problems too, I embarked on a fact finding mission to find the best treatments for my back.  This website provides information on the products that I have tried and I hope that this information really helps you too!