TVCH FORUMS HOME . JOIN . FAN CLUBS . DONATE . CONTACT . CHAT  
 Wikia  Quick Links   TOPICS . TREE-VIEW . SEARCH . HELP! . NEWS . PROFILE
Archive through May 02, 2006

The TVClubHouse: General Discussions ARCHIVES: Jan. 2007 ~ Mar. 2007: Health Center: Spinal Issues: Archive through May 02, 2006 users admin

Author Message
Herckleperckle
Member

11-20-2003

Tuesday, May 02, 2006 - 9:56 am   Edit Post Move Post Delete Post View Post Send Herckleperckle a private message Print Post    
Source: Ivanhoe.com
Reported November 14, 2000

Effective Treatment for Low Back Pain


(Ivanhoe Newswire) -- Researchers from Texas are looking into a new treatment to help patients with back pain caused by internal disk derangement. The procedure, called transcutaneous lumbar diskectomy has been found to help people with herniated disks but has not been studied on other back problems.

Transcutaneous lumbar diskectomy is a minimally invasive procedure where part of the disk is manually removed to eliminate the problem area. It has been found in previous studies to help one group of back pain patients but has not been studied for those with internal disk derangement. This is a condition where there is a split in the ring of the disk causing pain.

Under the care of one physician, 103 patients with were treated with either percutaneous diskectomy, the standard, invasive procedure, or transcutaneous diskectomy, the less invasive form of the procedure. After their surgery patients were questioned about their level of back or leg pain, ability to perform job functions, physical restrictions, use of medications and the need for more surgeries. Researchers found 63 percent of patients who had transcutaneous lumbar diskectomy achieved an excellent or good outcome.

Researchers conclude that transcutaneous lumbar diskectomy is a valid and effective treatment for internal disk derangement. They add that the procedure is an effective, minimally invasive method that should be given strong consideration when conservative treatment for this condition fails. They also say physicians should offer this treatment before a patient undergoes major open surgery on their back.

Herckleperckle
Member

11-20-2003

Tuesday, May 02, 2006 - 10:21 am   Edit Post Move Post Delete Post View Post Send Herckleperckle a private message Print Post    
Source: Ivanhoe.com
Reported May 4, 2005

Better Back Pain Treatments:
2005 Executive Summary


(Ivanhoe Newswire) -- Whether it is acute (lasting less than three months), recurrent (repeat episodes of acute symptoms) or chronic (lasting longer than three months), back pain is disabling. Because of its commonness and the pain and disability it causes, finding better and more efficient treatments has been a hot topic for many doctors and experts. These range from what type of mattress to sleep on to better back surgery to approaching the psychological factor of back pain.


Back Pain Causes/Prevention

No Link Between Epidurals and Backache
Previous studies have shown an association between epidural during labor and lower back pain. However, this study shows no evidence of a link. (I won't post this one unless someone asks for it.)


Driving Doesn't Cause Back Problems
Truck drivers and others who spend a lot of time behind the wheel can't blame their back problems on driving alone. (Again, I won't post this article unless someone requests it.)


Keep Your Back Intact
Back experts say preventing the pain is easier than treating it. With these five steps we can all follow to keep away the ache. (I WILL post this one.)


Spinal Disc Degeneration
This study finds the common risk factors such as previous back pain and work-related injuries are not the only reason for disc degeneration. It did isolate three significant risk factors for disc degeneration: the presence of disc herniation, lack of sports activities, and night shift work. (I WILL post this one, too.)



Therapies

Self-Management Program for Back Pain
This study finds a self-management program that includes group classes, exercise sheet handouts, and telephone follow-up calls may help patients improve and manage their back pain. (I will post this one, too.)


Best Mattress for Low Back Pain
If you have lower back pain, the right mattress can make a difference. This research finds medium-firm mattresses are more effective at relieving back pain. (I will post this article.)


Soothing Back Pain
A medication used to treat epilepsy also offers soothing relief for lower back pain. (I will post this one.)


Special Therapy Relieves Back Pain
This study shows a special physical therapy method is a successful treatment for those with chronic back pain caused by disc disease. (I will post this one, too.)


No Need for Back Therapy
Going to routine physiotherapy for your back pain is no more effective than a single consultation with a physiotherapist. (I will post this one, too.)


Pain Killers Help Back Function
Painkillers can help relieve pain as well as improve back functionality. (I will post this.)


No Pain, No Gain
A study in the Annals of Internal Medicine suggests people with low back pain can benefit from regular exercise, even if it hurts. (I will post this one.)


Spinal Cord Implant
Back pain that persists even after multiple surgeries can leave patients desperate for help. That solution, according to Dr. Levy, may be spinal cord stimulation. (I will post this one.)


Heat Treatment Helps Back Pain
A follow-up study confirms long-term benefits of heat treatment for patients who suffer from chronic low back pain.(I will post this one.)


Myofascial Release for Pain
Many people with chronic pain have tried multiple ways to get rid of it but with no relief. Now help may be in sight. A therapy called myofascial release is producing results. (Definitely posting this one.)


Drug Relieves Back Pain in Some
A controversial drug can be used to help patients with chronic lower back pain. (I will post this one.)


Long-term Relief for Back Pain
The application of heat to a sore back has been known to provide temporary relief, but now pain specialists at the Cleveland Clinic deliver heat treatment with pinpoint accuracy to relieve pain for a much longer time. (I will post this one.)


Back Pain Guidelines
This study shows an athletic approach to managing low back pain may be beneficial to patients. (I will post this article.)



Better Back Surgery

Better Surgery Heals Back Pain
A surgery that's easy on the patient would be a welcome change. (I will post this.)


Better Back Surgery
More than 150,000 of them have spinal fusion surgery, but that can also cause pain and trouble moving. But doctors have a new approach. (I will post this article.)


Less Painful Back Surgery
Up to 85 percent of patients who need spinal fusion surgery need it simply because of the normal aging process and wear and tear on the spine. Doctors have found an alternative that is easier and less painful for patients. (I will post this article.)



Psychological Factors to Back Pain

Is Back Pain in the Head?
It turns out psychological factors may be a strong predictor for back pain in some patients. (Give me a break. But I will post it.)


Unexplained Pain Associated with Brain Function
Researchers have found the reason for unexplained lower back pain in some patients may be related to their brains. (I will post this.)


Antidepressants and Back Pain
Patients with chronic back pain may mildly benefit from taking antidepressants, but the side effects may outweigh the benefits. (I will post this.)


Chronic Pain Shrinks the Brain
A Northwestern University study shows chronic back pain shrinks the brain by as much as 11 percent, which is equivalent to the degeneration of 10 to 20 years of aging. (Oh, great news. I will post this, too.)


Mental Health Therapies for Chronic Conditions
Research shows certain mental health interventions may help patients with chronic fatigue syndrome, irritable bowel syndrome, and chronic back pain, three common somatic conditions. (I will post this.)

Herckleperckle
Member

11-20-2003

Tuesday, May 02, 2006 - 11:03 am   Edit Post Move Post Delete Post View Post Send Herckleperckle a private message Print Post    
Walking the dog now. I will keep my promises, above!

Baby
Member

01-08-2006

Tuesday, May 02, 2006 - 11:32 am   Edit Post Move Post Delete Post View Post Send Baby a private message Print Post    
Thanks Herckle,

I am really anxious to read some of those articles! I wonder if some of the back pain info can also pertain to chronic pain all over the body?

Hey Wendo and Biloxibelle! How's it going?

Ginger1218
Member

08-31-2001

Tuesday, May 02, 2006 - 1:11 pm   Edit Post Move Post Delete Post View Post Send Ginger1218 a private message Print Post    
Baby, how are you feeling? Are you feeling any better?

Baby
Member

01-08-2006

Tuesday, May 02, 2006 - 1:34 pm   Edit Post Move Post Delete Post View Post Send Baby a private message Print Post    
Hi Ginger,

Thanks for asking, I appreciate that! Well, I guess it depends on how you look at it. I just have so many things wrong with me that I never realy feel good anymore. But, some days are far worse than others. On the "not so bad days", I can still cope most of the time. But, truthfully, on the really bad days it is getting hard to deal with.

But, I can tell you with all of the love and support I have coming my way (at home and here on the board), it does make it a might easier to deal with things. So, today I am a happy camper!

I just wrote to Herckle about Lidoderm Lidocaine patches I use. I thought they might be of some help to her. Maybe they could help some of you also. If I can answer any questions about them, please let me know and I will do my best.

Hope you are doing well, Ginger!

Ginger1218
Member

08-31-2001

Tuesday, May 02, 2006 - 1:57 pm   Edit Post Move Post Delete Post View Post Send Ginger1218 a private message Print Post    
I have them too Baby, I find they don't help my really bad pains. Sometimes it helps if the pain is not too bad though.

Baby
Member

01-08-2006

Tuesday, May 02, 2006 - 2:10 pm   Edit Post Move Post Delete Post View Post Send Baby a private message Print Post    
I have found pretty much the same thing, Ginger. And since I can only use one at a time and they aren't very large, it almost seems like a waste of time for me.

Now, if they made those suckers where they could fit over your entire body and much stronger, I think I would then get excited about using them!

I also have experienced more pain at times around the area that is covered by the patch. Under the patch, it may help, but around it, it can definitely get worse.

I do know some swear by them and my doc has patients who just love them. I guess if the pain is confined to certain areas and isn't too bad, they just might do some good for some folks.

Ginger1218
Member

08-31-2001

Tuesday, May 02, 2006 - 2:24 pm   Edit Post Move Post Delete Post View Post Send Ginger1218 a private message Print Post    
I was told that I could use up to 3 at a time. Still too small for the whole body LOL

Baby
Member

01-08-2006

Tuesday, May 02, 2006 - 2:40 pm   Edit Post Move Post Delete Post View Post Send Baby a private message Print Post    
That is something I didn't know, Ginger. I will have to ask the doc about it.

I do know when I first started using the patches, I had some weird things going on with me. My heart was doing a lot more of the fluttering thing than normal and I got a bit lightheaded at first.

Now, was it these patches? I truly don't know. But, I do know I have a very goofy system and we approach new medical procedures very cautiously until we see how I react to them.

What size are yours? I am not sure if they come just in one size or more. Mine are probably 4 inches by about 5 inches. I do cut mine in half so I can cover two areas at one time.

Herckleperckle
Member

11-20-2003

Tuesday, May 02, 2006 - 3:14 pm   Edit Post Move Post Delete Post View Post Send Herckleperckle a private message Print Post    
Source: Ivanhoe.com
Reported March 7, 2005

Keep Your Back Intact



DURHAM, N.C. (Ivanhoe Broadcast News) -- Next to a cold, back pain is the most common complaint that sends Americans to the doctor. Back experts say preventing the pain is easier than treating it with these five steps we can all follow to keep away the ache.

1

Former pro football star Scott Stankavich is playing a new game these days -- recovering from back surgery. He says, "Being responsible for it, vs. having somebody else take care of it, I think, is sort of step one."

Duke University Medical Center physical therapist Matt Roman says the same routine that helps Stankavich recover from back surgery can also help prevent back trouble. Tip number one -- don't smoke. "Smoking is vasoconstrictive, which means it restricts blood supply to the entire system," he tells Ivanhoe.

2

Next, don't sit for long periods because it puts pressure on the spine. Roman says, "Sitting is called the silent killer of back pain or backs in general." He recommends using a timer to remind yourself to get up and move every 20 minutes. Also get regular exercise and watch your weight.

Another important skill for back health is learning to lift the right way. Roman uses a stick to help Stankavich keep the natural curve in his back as he bends. "There should always be space there for your own fingers, and if you bend forward, that stick won't come off your sacrum; won't come off your thoracic spine."

3

Finally instead of sit-ups, try stomach and back strengthening exercises that Roman says are foundational and should be part of the rest of your life. He recommends doing back exercises on your back, so you can stretch and strengthen without putting pressure on your spine. And if you don't have a timer handy to remind you to get up and stretch, he says a ringing phone is a good reminder.

If you would like more information, please contact:

Amy Austell
Duke University Medical Center News Office Hanes House
3000 Erwin Road
Durham, NC 27710
(919) 660-1303

Hypermom
Member

08-13-2001

Tuesday, May 02, 2006 - 3:16 pm   Edit Post Move Post Delete Post View Post Send Hypermom a private message Print Post    
HP, did they have anything in there about intrathecal catheters for the spine? My son had one his last month because pain meds would have just knocked him out. His primary tumor was in the sacrum, but he also had cancer in his T10 vertebrae. The T10 disinegrated and the cancer spread to his pelvic bones. The catheter was something new that they were trying for ped. cancer patients, but had been used for back pain management. The pain pump was small enough for him to put in his jean pocket. It let him be mobile with his friends, and no one knew he had it unless he told them.

Herckleperckle
Member

11-20-2003

Tuesday, May 02, 2006 - 3:18 pm   Edit Post Move Post Delete Post View Post Send Herckleperckle a private message Print Post    
Source: Ivanhoe.com
Reported January 18, 2002


Spinal Disc Degeneration



(Ivanhoe Newswire) -- That back pain may not be from the risk factors that you think. A new study finds the common risk factors such as previous back pain and work-related injuries are not the only reason for disc degeneration.

Researchers in Switzerland evaluated 41 patients who were initially free of back pain for evidence of disc degeneration in their lower backs. Five years later, 41 percent of those patients had developed disc degeneration despite the lack of earlier back pain. In addition, none of the classic risk factors commonly associated with back pain, including heavy lifting, carrying and bending, were shown to significantly increase disc degeneration either.

The study, which is one of the first to focus on patients without prior back pain, did isolate three significant risk factors for disc degeneration: the presence of disc herniation, lack of sports activities, and night shift work. Although these reasons are, for the most part, not readily explainable, the researchers do concede that the risk of disc degeneration is most likely affected by a combination of genetic and environmental factors.

And, perhaps more importantly, it appears as if work-related risk factors for back pain may not be the same as those for disc degeneration. The researchers write, "This could lead researchers to reconsider the current concept that certain occupational risk factors have a detrimental effect on the integrity of the intervertebral disc and subsequent LBP development."

SOURCE: Spine, 2002; 27:125-134

Herckleperckle
Member

11-20-2003

Tuesday, May 02, 2006 - 3:23 pm   Edit Post Move Post Delete Post View Post Send Herckleperckle a private message Print Post    
Source: Ivanhoe.com
Reported November 26, 2003


Self-Management Program for Back Pain


(Ivanhoe Newswire) -- Acute low back pain accounts for 90 percent of all back pain. Acute low back pain is when symptoms have lasted for less than three months. A new study finds a self-management program that includes group classes, exercise sheet handouts, and telephone follow-up calls may help patients improve and manage their back pain.

A recent study found when compared to whites, black men and women in the United States reported losing more workdays for greater lengths of time because of low back pain. Researchers from Indiana University developed a self-management program for poor, urban patients with low back pain. The program focuses on boosting confidence in order to increase their motivation to incorporate suggestions that would improve their back pain.

For the study, researchers included 211 patients who visited a physician for low back pain. The patients were randomly assigned to the self-management program or the usual care group.

The patients in the program attended three group sessions that focused on treatment recommendations, behavioral changes, increased confidence and reducing negative thoughts and behaviors. The patients also received handouts showing exercises for their back pain. Follow-up phone calls were done at four, six and eight weeks after the first class to reinforce what was taught and discuss any concerns.

Patients in the usual care group did not receive these three interventions. Researchers assessed the back pain, health status, confidence and time spent in physical activity at the beginning of the study, at four months, and at one year.

Study authors say those patients who were part of the self-management program had less disability, better mental functioning, were better able to manage their back pain, and were more physically active after 12 months compared to the patients in the usual care group.

Researchers conclude a self-management program appears to be a beneficial addition for patients with lower back pain.

SOURCE: Archives of Internal Medicine, 2003;163:2632-2638

Herckleperckle
Member

11-20-2003

Tuesday, May 02, 2006 - 3:27 pm   Edit Post Move Post Delete Post View Post Send Herckleperckle a private message Print Post    
Source: Ivanhoe.com
Reported November 14, 2003


Best Mattress for Low Back Pain


(Ivanhoe Newswire) -- If you have lower back pain, the right mattress can make a difference. Three-quarters of physicians say your best bet is a firm bed mattress, but a new study says they could be wrong. The new research finds medium-firm (rather than firm) mattresses are more effective at relieving back pain.

Physicians often get frustrated when patients ask them what type of bed is best for their lower back pain. Few studies have been done on this issue to support their answers. Therefore, researchers from Kovacs Foundation in Spain conducted a study to test the effectiveness of a firm vs. a medium-firm mattress when it comes to lower back pain.

The study included 313 people who had their own bed mattresses replaced with either a firm or a medium-firm mattress. The participants did not know what type of mattress they were given. The individuals reported the degree of low back pain experienced while lying in bed, and after waking up in the morning as well as their degree of disability before and three months after the start of the study.

Study authors say the people who used the medium-firm mattress had more of their back pain symptoms alleviated. Specifically, those who slept on a medium-firm mattress were twice as likely to report improvements in low back pain while lying in bed, when getting out of bed and in disability associated with back pain. The participants who used the medium-firm mattresses also reported a decrease in the need for pain killing drugs.

Lead author Francisco Kovacs say, “Our findings stress that recommendations for daily living, such as what kind of mattress to use, may have a relevant effect on the clinical course of low-back pain.”

In an accompanying commentary, Jenny McConnell from the University of Melbourne, Australia, says these findings are a relief for clinicians. She says studies like this give doctors help in answering questions from patients about day-to-day management of their lower back pain.

SOURCE: The Lancet, 2003;362:1599-1604, 1594-1595

Herckleperckle
Member

11-20-2003

Tuesday, May 02, 2006 - 3:28 pm   Edit Post Move Post Delete Post View Post Send Herckleperckle a private message Print Post    
Hypermom, just saw your post. Interesting. I'll check after I post the ones noted above.

Landi
Member

07-29-2002

Tuesday, May 02, 2006 - 3:35 pm   Edit Post Move Post Delete Post View Post Send Landi a private message Print Post    
herkie, are you having any luck regarding info for scoliosis?

Herckleperckle
Member

11-20-2003

Tuesday, May 02, 2006 - 3:43 pm   Edit Post Move Post Delete Post View Post Send Herckleperckle a private message Print Post    
Source: Ivanhoe.com
Reported October 29, 2003


Soothing Back Pain



ST. LOUIS (Ivanhoe Broadcast News) -- Chances are, you won’t have to search very far to find someone who’s been slowed down by back pain. Nearly four out of five people will experience back pain at some time in their lives. Now a medication used to treat epilepsy also offers soothing relief for lower back pain.

1

Amy Davis knows two speeds -- fast and faster. “I’m always busy," she tells Ivanhoe. "I dance. I work two jobs. I stand on my feet approximately five hours a day at my second job.”

Two years ago, a back injury put a temporary stop to Davis' 60-hour workweeks. “I tried to lift the little portable refrigerator. I lifted the wrong way, and I just had this excruciating back pain,” she says. Davis had pinched her sciatic nerve -- a nerve that runs from the lower back to the legs and feet. Neurologist Ghazala Hayat, M.D., says finding the right medication to ease the pain is not easy.

“We’re going from one medicine to another medicine, kind of hoping one will work for this patient or the next patient,” says Dr. Hayat, of Saint Louis University. She hopes the anti-seizure drug Trileptal will end the guesswork. Seizure drugs have been used to treat other pain conditions, but now researchers are studying them for back pain.

2

Trileptal drug decreases pain by reducing the activity of injured nerve fibers -- the same activity that causes seizures. It could offer relief to many back pain sufferers. Dr. Hayat says, “Once the pain is relieved, even if the condition itself is not relieved, you’ll see the patient’s quality of life improve.”

It took six months of physical therapy for Davis to get relief, but she says she would have jumped at the chance to participate in a trial like this. “The pain was just terrible. I would have taken anything almost to alleviate the pain.”

Researchers are now recruiting patients across the country to participate in the trial. They will enroll 140 patients in about 20 sites across the country.

If you would like more information, please contact:

Lisa Stansbury, Research Nurse
Saint Louis University
Department of Neurology
(314) 577-8026

Herckleperckle
Member

11-20-2003

Tuesday, May 02, 2006 - 3:45 pm   Edit Post Move Post Delete Post View Post Send Herckleperckle a private message Print Post    
landi, I did find one, but it dealt with treatment for adults who had never had their scoliosis addressed. I am going to search further, though, cuz I can't believe that is the only article. I will definitely post articles about it when I locate them.

Hypermom
Member

08-13-2001

Tuesday, May 02, 2006 - 3:49 pm   Edit Post Move Post Delete Post View Post Send Hypermom a private message Print Post    
Thanks HP!

Herckleperckle
Member

11-20-2003

Tuesday, May 02, 2006 - 3:50 pm   Edit Post Move Post Delete Post View Post Send Herckleperckle a private message Print Post    
Source: Ivanhoe.com
Reported April 15, 2005


Special Therapy Relieves Back Pain


(Ivanhoe Newswire) -- It's estimated that up to 80 percent of adults experience lower back pain. Now, a new study shows a special physical therapy method is a successful treatment for those with chronic back pain caused by disc disease.

The method is called Souchard's global postural re-education. Therapists work with patients to stretch and strengthen their abdominal and paraspinal muscles -- the muscles running along the spine. They give support and are the motor for movement of the spine. These muscles can become weak because of stress and under or over-use. The specially designed therapy can relieve back pain by correcting the patient's posture and decompression of the spinal canal.

"These results are exciting," says neurologist Conrado Estol, M.D., Ph.D., of the Neurologic Center for Treatment and Rehabilitation in Buenos Aires, Argentina, "because other treatments for severe and chronic back pain have limited or no benefit, and the pain rarely goes away on its own."

Researchers studied 102 people with severe back pain over a two-year period. All attempted to treat their back pain with other methods, including regular physical therapy, acupuncture, and epidural injections.

The study treatment included two physical therapy sessions during the first week, then a session once a week for the next five months. Patients were also given directions for at-home exercises.

Of the 102 study participants, 92 reported significant improvement. For 85 percent, the improvement could be felt after just three weeks of treatment. After an average of almost two years, the pain has not reoccurred in those people.

SOURCE: American Academy of Neurology's 57th Annual Meeting in Miami Beach, Fla., April 9-16, 2005

Herckleperckle
Member

11-20-2003

Tuesday, May 02, 2006 - 3:55 pm   Edit Post Move Post Delete Post View Post Send Herckleperckle a private message Print Post    
Source: Ivanhoe.com
Reported September 28, 2004


No Need for Back Therapy



(Ivanhoe Newswire) -- Going to routine physiotherapy for your back pain is no more effective than a single consultation with a physiotherapist, a new study shows.

Physiotherapists treat millions for mild to moderate low back pain each year. However, researchers say just receiving medical advice once and staying active offer the same benefits.

Researchers from the United Kingdom studied 286 patients with chronic low back pain for one year. Half of the participants received therapy, and the other half received advice only. Patients in the therapy group believed they were benefiting from treatment, but there was no evidence of a long-term beneficial effect.

Current guidelines vary for patients with low back pain, but all advise staying active. Some suggest spinal manipulation for acute and subacute low back pain, and most advise exercise therapy for chronic low back pain.

Authors of the study conclude, "Routine physiotherapy for mild to moderate low back pain generally practiced in the United Kingdom is no more effective than a single session with a physiotherapist that includes advice to remain active."

SOURCE: British Medical Journal, 2004;329:708-711

Herckleperckle
Member

11-20-2003

Tuesday, May 02, 2006 - 4:02 pm   Edit Post Move Post Delete Post View Post Send Herckleperckle a private message Print Post    
Source: Ivanhoe.com
Reported May 30, 2003


Pain Killers Help Back Function



SAN FRANCISCO (Ivanhoe Newswire) -- Relief may not be far away for the many people who miss work due to back pain. A new study shows painkillers can help solve the number one cause for missed work by Americans.

Researchers from the University of Alberta studied a group of patients who experienced low back pain. They injected the patients with a strong narcotic painkiller and then asked them to complete an exercise test to measure their function.

Results of the study show painkillers can help relieve pain as well as improve back functionality. When the patients were given the injection, they reported their pain went down and their productivity, while performing certain exercises, increased. Researchers say this is the first study to link pain killers to improved physical performance.

Back pain is the most common disability for adults between ages 19 and 45, and more than $80 billion a year is spent on treating the problem. Chronic back pain can interfere with sleeping, walking, standing, sitting and driving.

Researchers say their results suggest painkillers should help unemployed patients with back pain get back to work. Dr. Saifee Rashiq, Director of Pain Medicine at the University of Alberta, says, “Our study shows that drugs should get them working, so we’re really not sure why they’re not.”

Dr. Rashiq says the reason some patients miss work and other activities may be psychological. “What happens is that people say ‘My back hurts and I can’t do certain things,’” says Dr. Rashiq. “Why not? ... We’ve shown that drugs ought to get these people to be functioning again,” he adds.

SOURCE: American College of Sports Medicine Annual Meeting, San Francisco, May 28-31, 2003

Herckleperckle
Member

11-20-2003

Tuesday, May 02, 2006 - 4:12 pm   Edit Post Move Post Delete Post View Post Send Herckleperckle a private message Print Post    
Source: Ivanhoe.com
Reported January 20, 2004


No Pain, No Gain



(Ivanhoe Newswire) -- A new study in the Annals of Internal Medicine suggests people with low back pain can benefit from regular exercise, even if it hurts.

Low back pain is a common complaint and one that causes excessive absence from work. Many doctors recommend an exercise program for these patients aimed at returning them to normal activity levels. But many people with lower back pain balk at exercise because of the pain involved.

This study was conducted among the employees of an airline company in the Netherlands. About 135 workers who had regularly missed work due to low back pain were assigned to either usual care or to a physical exercise program supervised by a physiotherapist.

Workers in the treatment group exercised twice a week for an hour. The program consisted of general and individually tailored exercises, both of which had to be performed during each session. General exercises were aerobic in nature, such as cycling or rowing, or strengthening. The strengthening exercises consisted of floor abdominal sit-ups, dynamic back extensions, leg-presses, latissimus pull-downs, and standing up from a low chair.

The individually tailored exercises were based on work-related tasks. For example, a worker who reported back problems while lifting suitcases from a luggage wagon onto an airplane might be instructed to practice lifting and moving a suitcase a set number of times. The physiotherapists insisted the workers continue to exercise, despite any pain or discomfort.

All the workers in the study were followed for six months. Those who participated in the exercise program missed only 58 days of work, compared to 87 missed days of work for those receiving usual care.

SOURCE: Annals of Internal Medicine, 2004;143:77-84

Herckleperckle
Member

11-20-2003

Tuesday, May 02, 2006 - 4:23 pm   Edit Post Move Post Delete Post View Post Send Herckleperckle a private message Print Post    
Source: Ivanhoe.com
Reported August 9, 2002


Spinal Cord Implant



ATLANTA (Ivanhoe Newswire) -- About 350,000 Americans will undergo spine surgery for the treatment of low back pain and leg pain. Despite surgery, up to 15 percent of patients will continue to have unresolved pain. Now these patients may soon be able to get some relief.

1

Back pain can be debilitating and relentless for many patients, just ask Carol Thompson. "It would get to the point where sitting for a long period of time was painful," she tells Ivanhoe.

Gerald Dolan says, "I was walking crooked and I had pains down both legs and everything else."

Spine specialist Howard Levy, M.D., of Emory University in Atlanta, says back pain that persists even after multiple surgeries can leave patients desperate for help.

"Patients that I see are patients that have had surgery and have persistent pain, and we're trying to come up with some reason, some solution to help them with the pain," Dr. Levy tells Ivanhoe.

2

That solution, according to Dr. Levy, may be spinal cord stimulation.

3

Your body feels pain through messages sent to the brain. In spinal cord stimulation, a device is implanted into the lower back and wires are run into the spinal canal. It blocks pain signals from reaching the brain using electrical stimulation.

Dr. Levy says, "The spinal cord stimulator can be placed and the patient can be back on his feet in several days without the long recovery that's required from back surgery."

Patients can turn the device on or off with the touch of a magnet. And implanting it requires less recovery time and less pain involved when compared to traditional back surgeries.

Dolan had the device implanted after five back surgeries failed to resolve his pain. He says, "I'd probably be in a wheelchair, but with this, I have a life right now that I can do almost anything I want."


4

Dr. Levy says that's the reaction from many of his patients. He says, "If it works, it's wonderful thing for patients to tell you that their pain feels better."

If you would like more information, please contact:

George Rainey
Emory Spine Center
2165 North Decatur Road
Decatur, GA 30033
(404) 778-7262
george_rainey@emoryhealthcare.org
http://www.nsonline.org/fbss

Now, this is what I want.