Tag: Back pain

Understanding Sacroiliac Joint Pain

November 12, 2024

The SI joint refers to the triangular shaped sacrum bone that connects the spine to the upper portion of the pelvis. SI means sacroilium.

There are two SI joints that sit on each side of your spine with ligaments that hold the bones together. The function of the SI joint is to bear the weight of your upper body when you sit or stand.

Common Causes of SI Pain

  • SI ligaments are damaged
  • Osteoarthritis
  • Inflammation due to injury
  • Falling down
  • Repetitive pounding from sports such as jogging
  • Muscle tightness in low back or backside
  • Traumatic injury
  • Prolonged sitting or standing
  • Prolonged standing one one leg

SI Pain Symptoms

  • Standing up may cause pain
  • Pain may be located on one side of your lower back
  • Pain may be worse in the morning than during the day
  • Pain is most common in the low back and buttocks

Diagnosis and Treatment

If you think your pain may be caused by injury to the SI joint, make an appointment with your primary care doctor to get a preliminary diagnosis. Depending on their findings, your doctor may give you a treatment plan, or refer you to a spine specialist for further testing.

Weight Loss: Protect Your Spine and Health

November 4, 2024

Too Much Weight Puts Pressure on Your Spinal Discs

As you get older you want to avoid common health issues that are associated with the aging process. Consider weight loss as preventive medicine.

Normal Spinal Discs

There are a lot of good reasons to lose weight. Spinal health is one of them. This post will help you make the connection between getting rid of excess pounds to keep your spine in good shape.

To the right is a picture of a human spine. The spine is made up of bones called vertebrae. In between the vertebrae are small pillows called discs. They act as cushions in between the vertebrae. Inside the disc is a jelly-like substance, while the exterior is comprised of tougher material.

Herniated Spinal Disc

Excess weight puts undue pressure on the spinal discs and causes wear and tear. This may cause a disc to rupture. Most likely you will suffer pain and need medical care. The pain prevents you from participating in much needed physical activity to help you lose unwanted weight.

Need Help With Your Exercise Journey? Contact Irene Pastore by filling out this form.

Low Back Pain After 50: Essential Tips for Safe Lifting and Back Health

October 22, 2024

Improper Lifting and Low Back Pain

Muscle strains and low back disc herniation can occur from improper postural lifting techniques or lifting a load that is too heavy. Learn the correct ways to lift in order to protect your low back from pain and injury.

Ergonomics – Proper Lifting Techniques Guide

Use this illustrated guide from Pennsylvania State University to prevent back and lifting-related injuries. These guidelines should be used when lifting or moving any loads, both at work and at home. Click here to read the Guide.

Back Health Guide

An illustrated guide from the National Institutes of Health. This guide will help you to prevent back injury by understanding Good Posture and Lifting With Proper Posture. Click here to read the Guide.

Related posts Low Back Pain After 50 and How To Fix It, Strengthen Your Core To Alleviate Low Back Pain, Post Activity Muscle Strain, Low Back Pain After 50: Why Your Mattress Matters, Sedentary Lifestyle and Low Back Ache

Sedentary Lifestyle: A Major Cause of Low Back Pain

October 21, 2024

Sedentary Lifestyle and Low Back Ache

A person is considered sedentary if they’re getting little or no physical activity and spend most of their day sitting for long periods of time.

A sedentary lifestyle is a risk factor for cancer, diabetes , obesity, high blood pressure, high blood sugar, and cardiovascular disease.

How Does Sedentary Living Cause Low Back Pain

Lack of exercise can cause weight gain, which in turn increases pressure on the low back. Prolonged periods of sitting also increases pressure on the discs of the lower spine. Both conditions increase your chances of developing chronic low back pain .

How To Remedy Sedentary Living

  • Begin a low impact exercise program such as walking, swimming, or stationary bike.
  • Stretch everyday
  • Start a weight management program
  • Improve your sitting and standing posture

Related posts Low Back Pain After 50 and How To Fix It, Strengthen Your Core To Alleviate Low Back Pain, Post Activity Muscle Strain, Low Back Pain After 50: Why Your Mattress Matters

Low Back Pain After 50: Excess Weight and Osteoarthritis

October 18, 2024

Low Back Pain Series: Causes, Prevention and Remedies

Excess Weight and Low Back Ache

Being overweight puts excess pressure and strain on the lumbar spine, your hips and knees.

The more weight you carry the greater the chances of developing low back pain. Carrying too much weight wears down cartilage in the lower spine, knees and hips. Osteoarthritis occurs when joint cartilage deteriorates. It is a gradual painful condition.

Remedy

If low back pain or stiffness doesn’t go away, the best bet is to see your doctor to get a proper medical diagnosis.

Unfortunately osteoarthritis cannot be reversed. Your doctor can help you manage symptoms and possibly slow the progression. If you’re overweight, a program of weight management will most likely be prescribed. Reducing joint stress may reduce pain, prevent more injury and improve mobility.

Symptoms of Osteoarthritis

  • Stiffness
  • Loss of flexibility
  • Low back pain
  • A grinding sensation during movement
  • Low back tenderness
  • Low back swelling

Related posts Low Back Pain After 50 and How To Fix It, Strengthen Your Core To Alleviate Low Back Pain, Post Activity Muscle Strain, Low Back Pain After 50: Why Your Mattress Matters

Need Help? Contact Irene Pastore To Start Your After 50 Fitness Journey. Fill Out The Contact Form.