Activa: Is It Back Pain Or Sciatica?

THE CHALLENGE OF TREATING BACK PAIN

Back pain is the second most common diagnosis seen by physicians in their offices. 85% of the US population will suffer an episode of back pain sometime in their life. Why is this? A lot has to do with the design of our body. It is the price we pay for walking upright on two legs. In humans, the force of gravity pulls directly down through the vertical spine compressing it together over the years. In other mammals such as horses, apes and cows, the spine is horizontal and the pull of gravity does not compress the spine together. Most back pain falls under the category of mechanical back pain, meaning the mechanics of the movement are not correct. The spine has to move in intricate ways to make whole movements of bending, extending and twisting. Therefore, the “mechanics” of the spine are important in order for all the vertebrae (the bones) to be able to move. Mechanical back pain means that the joints, muscles and ligaments of the spine are not moving correctly at the right time. This can cause increased strain on certain parts of your back, especially the very lower back. Why do the mechanics of the spine change and cause pain? This is due to a variety of reasons including small injuries from lifting heavy objects, bending, twisting, repetitive strain, accidents, weakness from prolonged sitting and changes in your core strength. In today’s world, most of our daily activities involve sitting which causes the abdominal and back muscles to weaken.This in turn lessens the necessary support to the spine, causing strain.The strain causes inflammation, which

leads to pain. Back pain can be localized to the back area or even radiate into the buttocks or backs of the legs. Millions of people a year rely on over the counter medication and back braces to get through their day. However, the unfortunate reality is that unless treatedproperly,75%ofpeoplewithbackproblemswillhaveanother episode of their back pain. This is because the cause of the problem, the mechanical movement, is not addressed by treating it with drugs or a hot pack. More and more people with back pain are realizing the full benefits of our specialized hands on physical therapy to address the cause of their back pain and understand what they can do to have lasting relief. Call us today to learn more how we can help quickly relieve your back pain!

SUMMER WATERMELON SALAD WITH CUCUMBER, FETA & MINT

Relieve Back Pain In Minutes Try this movement if you are experiencing back pain.

INGREDIENTS FOR THE HONEY VINAIGRETTE • 2 tbsp honey • 2 tbsp lime juice • 1 tbsp olive oil • pinch of salt FOR THE WATERMELON SALAD • 1 5 lb watermelon, peeled, cut into cubes • 1 cucumber, cubed

Improves Low Back Pain

PRONE ON ELBOWS Lying face down, slowly raise up and prop yourself up on your elbows. Hold for 8 seconds. Repeat 8 times.

• 15 fresh mint leaves, torn • 15 fresh basil leaves, torn • 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese

www.simpleset.net

DIRECTIONS In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, lime juice, olive oil and pinch of salt. Set aside for a moment.

In a large bowl or serving platter with sides, combine the watermelon, cucumbers, and fresh herbs. Top the watermelon salad with the honey vinaigrette and gently toss to combine. Top with the feta cheese and serve!

https://www.themediterraneandish.com/watermelon-salad-with-cucumber-feta/

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