BackPainSources

Whether it’s the result of sitting at the office all day, constantly using your smartphone, or relaxing on the couch, the improper posture is something we find in people of all ages.

This postural dysfunction represents the unnatural position of the spine, a position in which the natural curves are modified. The long-term result is constant pressure and stress on the joints, muscles and vertebrae.

 

CONTENT:

1. Signs and symptoms of an incorrect position
2. What does the wrong position look like?
3. Factors contributing to improper posture
4. Risks and complications
5. Recommendation

 

 

Signs and symptoms of an incorrect position

The main symptoms, felt by the person in question daily or once in a while, are painful in nature. Thus, he will feel pain in his upper back (neck) and lower back (lower back), sore throat, pain in his shoulders or upper limbs. Arm pain can often go as far as the wrist and palm. Lower limb pain includes thighs and hips, knees and ankles.

Other symptoms include fatigue and a feeling of “muscle fever”, but also more and more frequent headaches, which we do not usually attribute to incorrect posture.

 

What does the wrong position look like?

• Incorrect position: Bent over, back bent, shoulders turned forward, neck and head stretched forward, knees bent.
• Incorrect position: Shoulders arched at the back, with the lumbar area much stretched backwards, abdomen protruding in front, shoulders rotated externally, tense.
• Correct position: Back straight and neutral, balanced, forming a straight vertical line from the shoulders to the hips, the neck being aligned with the rest of the body.

 

Factors contributing to improper posture

• Lack of correct information and awareness of the correct / incorrect position
• Sedentarism
• Some occupational duties
• Muscle stiffness
• Muscle weakness
• Low stability, balance problems
• Stressful lifestyle
• Inadequate working environment

 

Risks and complications

Although many of us do not realize, maintaining an incorrect position in our daily lives, when we work or relax, can have serious consequences for our health. The worst of these are:

 

• Permanent bone damage

When the bones are not in their natural position for too long, their abnormal compression and mobilization can occur in the joints. The most serious situation is the vertebral compression, when two neighboring vertebrae overlap unnaturally, hitting each other.

 

• Carpal tunnel syndrome

The nerve fibers that originate at the cervical and thoracic level (upper back) are the same fibers that reach the wrist, where the carpal tunnel is located. Nerves can be affected, compressed, by the unnatural position of the neck and back, leading to this syndrome characterized by pain, tingling, numbness.

 

• Hypertension

Improper positioning with constant pressure on the joints contributes to high blood pressure, as there are pressure receptors on the neck.

 

• Urinary incontinence

The incorrect position promotes partial urinary incontinence, defined by urination when the person laughs, coughs or sneezes. When we are not standing, the abdominal pressure increases, pressing on the bladder. The wrong position also weakens the pelvic floor muscles, which can no longer resist the urinary reflex.

 

• Constipation

This is due to the wrong position when using the toilet, but also to the weakening of the pelvic muscles.

 

• Heartburn and digestive problems

Heartburn is the burning sensation, retrosternal pain, that characterizes gastroesophageal reflux. Adopting an incorrect position after a meal (lying on your back) can cause reflux accompanied by heartburn, nausea, even vomiting.

The explanation lies in the fact that when we lie on our backs, the gastric acid released for digestion from the stomach will take the wrong direction, reversing, returning to the esophagus.

 

Recommendation

If you have been lying on your back at least once while reading this article, try the following recommendations to correct your position right now:

• Relax your shoulders, pulling them down and gently back
• Lift your head up, looking straight ahead
• Use your torso muscles: abdominal and pelvic muscles
• Use a special corset to correct posture, if necessary, taking care not to put even more pressure on the torso
• When sitting at the desk, place a small pillow on your lower back; it will help you stay upright
•  Change your position every 30-60 minutes
• Do not lie down on the couch immediately after eating

A joint is the connection between two bones. Their joints and surrounding structures allow the elbows and knees to bend, the hips to move, the back and head to bend, and the fingers to move.

Did you know that the human body has more than 200 bones and more than 200 joints that connect these bones? Few of us are aware of how all these components work together to allow us to walk, run, jump, climb, dance and swim.

Cartilage cushions the joints and helps them move easily and smoothly. It contains cells that continuously renew the substances that make it up, chondrocytes. A membrane called the synovium produces a thick fluid that helps maintain cartilage health.

The synovium can become inflamed and thicken as cartilage wear occurs. This can lead to inflammation, which causes excess fluid in the joint, resulting in swelling and possibly the development of osteoarthritis.

As the cartilage deteriorates further, the adjacent bones do not have enough lubrication from the synovial fluid and cushioning from the cartilage. When the bone surfaces come into direct contact with each other, pain and inflammation result in the surrounding tissues, and over time they can develop bony spurs.

 

CONTENT:

1. The most common joint ailments
2. Top natural remedies for joint health

 

The most common joint ailments

Arthritis is without a doubt the most common joint disease, but there are many more. Joint diseases can be short-lived or extremely chronic, painful, agonizing or just painful and uncomfortable; they can be limited to a single joint or they can affect many parts of the body. Non-inflammatory joint pain is called arthralgia, while inflammatory pain is classified as arthritis.

Osteoarthritis – occurs when the cartilage between two joints wears out, so that the bones rub against each other, resulting in swelling and stiffness. Symptoms usually appear in middle age and almost everyone has some symptoms up to the age of 70. Symptoms may include joint pain, swelling, or slight stiffness.

Gout – It is a common and complex form of arthritis that can affect anyone, caused by an accumulation of uric acid crystals in the joints, most commonly in the thumb. It is characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, swelling, redness and tenderness in the joints, often in the joint at the base of the thumb.

Rheumatoid arthritis – It is a long-term autoimmune disease that leads to inflammation of the joints and surrounding tissues. It can occur at any age, but is more common in middle age. The exact cause of this condition is unknown. However, certain factors seem to play a role in increasing the risk of developing or triggering it: sex (women are more prone to developing arthritis), genes (history of a family member with this condition), smoking, obesity.

 

Top natural remedies for joint health

Curcuma longa 

• Research has shown that this extract is very effective in combating rheumatoid arthritis and rheumatic diseases due to its anti-inflammatory properties. With the help of curcumin, the treatment is more effective and without side effects, which recommends supplements based on Curcuma longa extract as a healthy and effective alternative to synthetic antirheumatic drugs.

 

Incense tree

• Also called Boswellia, it is a tree found in India, North Africa, but also in the Middle East. Boswellia extract is beneficial for cartilage and joints, restoring their mobility and reducing painful sensitivity. The chemicals in this extract called boswellic acids have anti-inflammatory effects. Clinical studies have shown that Boswellia extract improves pain symptoms in people with osteoarthritis.

 

Devil’s Claw

• Devil’s Claw Extract is known for its powerful action of reducing pain in the bones and joints through a specific response to mobilizing the body’s natural resources. This extract contains a chemical called harpogoside which has anti-inflammatory effects.

 

Shark cartilage

Shark cartilage, due to its composition (cells, water, matrix), is one of the most effective adjuvants for reducing joint pain and restoring mobility.

Osteogenesis Imperfecta, also called brittle bone disease, is a disease that causes an abnormality in the production of a protein called collagen.

Collagen is an important protein that supports the body, specifically the skeleton on which the body is built. There are several types of collagen, the one that is found in the largest amount in the body is called type I collagen.

Type I collagen is found in bones, ocular sclera, ligaments and teeth. Imperfect osteogenesis occurs when there is a deficiency in the production of type I collagen.

 

CONTENT:

1. Symptoms of Osteogenesis Imperfecta
2. Causes of Osteogenesis Imperfecta
3. Treatment for Osteogenesis Imperfecta

 

Symptoms of Osteogenesis Imperfecta

Because collagen is a fibrous protein found in bones, cartilage, tendons, and other connective tissues, most of the symptoms of fragile bone disease are manifested in the bones and joints.

 

Fractures

Bones are complex structures made up of proteins, minerals and living cells. The skeleton is made up of collagen proteins bound together to form strong, fibrous stems. Minerals are then deposited on this strong foundation. In the case of patients with imperfect osteogenesis, either not enough collagen is produced or what is produced is abnormal.

As a result, the collagen stems are weak and deformed. The bones that contain them break easily, especially in children whose bones are growing rapidly.

 

Joint Laxity

Laxity is characterized by the instability of the joints that connect two bones. The joints are made up of two bones that are covered by cartilage, tendons and ligaments, which support the bones together and are made up of collagen.

Abnormal collagen present in patients with osteogenesis causes improper functioning of the ligaments, cartilage and tendons, resulting in laxity of the joints.

 

Blue eye sclera

The eye sclera is a fibrous membrane that covers the eyes and cornea and provides protection. The part of the sclera, which is easy to see, is called the sclera of the eye or the whites of the eye. It contains collagen.

Due to the dysfunction caused by collagen, those diagnosed with fragile type I bone disease have a thinner sclera than normal. This allows the veins in the eye to be seen, which gives the skin a blue color.

 

Causes of Osteogenesis Imperfecta

A defect in the structure of collagen molecules causes a mutation in the DNA of genes that create collagen. The mutation produces deformed collagen and abnormal collagen fibers. Bones will not be solid because abnormal collagen fibers affect and consume any healthy collagen fiber.

The process is cyclical in a growing child and prevents the formation of new and healthy bones. The result is an increased risk of fractures and ruptures during youth. However, this process will improve towards puberty, when the process of bone growth slows down.

 

Genetics

Specialists believe that most types of imperfect osteogenesis result from an inherited dominant autosomal pattern. This means that if a child is born to a mother with a dominant mutation, it is 50% likely to be transmitted to the baby. However, it appears that about 15% of children inherited imperfect osteogenesis as a result of the recessive mutation.

In essence, the recessive mutation occurs when both parents are carriers of the recessive gene of the disease, but do not manifest the disorder. The probability of being the carrier of the recessive gene and passing it on to the heirs is 100%, but this does not mean that the disorder will manifest in future generations.

 

Other factors

An important cause of fragile bone disease is osteoblasts affected by bad collagen molecules. Ossetoblasts are the cells responsible for bone formation. Due to the poor quality of collagen fibers that negatively impact osteoblasts, new bone cells cannot form and divide properly.

 

Treatment for Osteogenesis Imperfecta

There is currently no known treatment for imperfect osteogenesis. The main goal of treatment should be to prevent accidents and maintain healthy bones.

Children with imperfect osteogenesis should be provided with a high-nutrient diet. They need to exercise regularly and maintain a healthy weight. Often children with imperfect osteogenesis will need splints, a wheelchair, or outpatient care.

Surgical treatment of imperfect osteogenesis depends on the severity of the condition and the patient’s age. In very young children, most fractures are treated as if the child has no underlying condition. However, surgical stabilization of fractures is quite common, even at an early age.

Fractures of children with imperfect osteogenesis are often treated with surgery to stabilize the bones and prevent deformities. One of the procedures used is to insert a metal rod into the center of the hollow bone, to support the fragile bones and to prevent bone deformation.

Bone health deteriorates with age, but this process can be accelerated by many diseases with negative effects on the bone system.

Whether it’s the condition itself or the drugs with dangerous side effects, it’s important to know how you can protect your bones and reduce your risk of developing osteoporosis.

 

CONTENT:

1. Conditions that can cause bone disease
2. Other medical conditions that are dangerous to bone health
3. Factors influencing bone health

 

Conditions that can cause bone disease

Thyroid disorders, diabetes and rheumatoid arthritis are among the main conditions that significantly increase the risk of developing osteoporosis, a systemic disease characterized by damage to the architecture of the skeletal system, which can lead to increased bone fragility and the risk of fractures.

 

Endocrine diseases

Diabetes is currently associated with an increased risk of hip fractures, which is why scientists and endocrinologists recommend that diabetics, in addition to keeping their blood sugar levels under control, be concerned with preventing falls and other physical trauma.

Other endocrine disorders associated with an increased risk of osteoporosis are

• Hyperthyroidism. There is an excessive level of thyroid hormones in the body, either due to the fact that the thyroid gland is hyperactive or due to the misuse of medication to treat thyroid disorders.
• Hyperparathyroidism. There is too high a level of parathyroid hormone in the body, accelerating the process of reducing bone mass.
• Drug abuse that blocks the production of sex hormones.
• Long-term use of medroxyprogesterone acetate, a contraceptive injection.
• Hormonal disorders. Irregular menstrual cycle that affects estrogen levels in the body, late onset of menstruation, early onset of menopause, etc.

 

Gastrointestinal disorders

Proper absorption of calcium and other nutrients in the body is essential for bone health, so all gastrointestinal disorders that prevent this process are possible causes of osteoporosis.

 

Hematological disorders

Blood and bone marrow disorders can result in bone fragility. An eloquent example in this case is multiple myeloma, a type of cancer that affects the bone marrow, the soft tissue inside the bones where blood cells grow.

 

Rheumatic diseases

Patients with rheumatoid arthritis and long-term treatment with glucocorticoids (cortisone, prednisone, etc.) are more likely to develop osteoporosis.

 

Asthma

Because glucocorticoid therapy is often used to control the inflammation that people with asthma suffer from, this respiratory disease is also on the list of conditions that can increase the predisposition to reduce bone density.

 

Other medical conditions that are dangerous to bone health

• Anorexia nervosa. This condition deprives the body of essential nutrients and can temporarily stop menstruation.
• Bed rest. Exercise is important for bone health, so any disease involving immobility can be a risk factor for osteoporosis.
• Oncological treatment. Some oncological drugs, such as tamoxifen, can affect the structure and density of the bone system.
• Organ transplantation. Some medications that prevent the patient’s body from rejecting a transplanted organ have been shown to be harmful to bone strength.

 

Factors influencing bone health

The skeletal system undergoes continuous changes, the old bone tissues being permanently replaced with new ones. In the first years of life, this regeneration is accelerated, the bone mass being in a constant process of growth, until the age of 30 years.

This is followed by a progressive loss of bone density, so the risk of developing osteoporosis varies depending on how quickly the bone mass decreases. The factors that influence bone health throughout life are as follows.

• Lifestyle. While genetic factors play an important role in determining bone density, diet and physical activity make the difference between a strong and a fragile bone system.
• Daily calcium intake. An insufficient daily dose of this essential mineral leads to bone damage over time.
• Daily intake of vitamin D. Bone health depends on the amount of vitamin D in the body, as it helps the absorption and use of calcium.
• The movement. Physical activity helps to increase and maintain bone density.
• Body weight. Underweight increases the risk of fractures and bone loss. Excessive weight loss is accompanied by a reduction in bone density, especially in a sedentary lifestyle.
• Reproductive problems. Pregnancy and lactation do not normally affect the bone system of a healthy woman. Amenorrhea (cessation of menstrual cycles) after the onset of puberty and before menopause is a major threat to bone health if left untreated.
• Diseases and medications. There are many conditions and medications that can directly affect bone health.
• The vices. Smoking reduces bone mass and increases the risk of fractures. Alcohol abuse has also been associated, according to specialized studies, with decreased bone density and susceptibility to fractures.
• Hormone levels in the body. Excess thyroid hormones cause bone loss. Menopausal women are at higher risk for osteoporosis, as estrogen levels drop significantly. In men, testosterone deficiency can lead to bone disease.

Rheumatic diseases are characterized by inflammation of the connecting and supporting structures of the body. The most affected structures are the joints, but sometimes the tendons, ligaments, bones and muscles can also be affected.

Some rheumatic diseases can affect the organs, eventually leading to loss of function of the affected organ.

These diseases include arthritis, which literally means joint inflammation, but can include over 100 different rheumatic disorders. These mainly affect the spine are considered spondyloarthropathies.

 

CONTENT:

1. The most common rheumatic diseases
2. Causes of Rheumatic Diseases and Risk Factors
3. Cold season

 

 

The most common rheumatic diseases

Osteoarthritis – the most common type of arthritis, which affects and destroys primarily the cartilage, which means the soft tissue that covers and protects the ends of the bones in the joints;

Rheumatoid arthritis – is an autoimmune disorder in which the immune system erroneously attacks the soft tissue in the joints;

Fibromyalgia – is a chronic condition characterized by areas triggering symptoms and localized pain in the musculoskeletal system;

Lupus erythematosus – an autoimmune disorder that causes inflammation in many parts of the body, including the joints, skin, kidneys, blood, lungs, heart and brain;

Gout – is a type of arthritis that develops when uric acid builds up in the joints. It most commonly affects the joints of the fingers;

Idiopathic juvenile arthritis – is the most common form of arthritis in children, and may be accompanied by fever and rash;

Infectious arthritis – can be caused by Lyme disease and Neisseria gonorrhoeae.

Psoriatic arthritis – a type of arthritis that affects the fingers and toes and is associated with psoriasis;

Ankylosing spondylitis – the most common spondyloarthropathy, which can affect the hips, shoulders and knees, in addition to the spine.

Rheumatic polymyalgia – a condition that causes pain and stiffness in the tendons, muscles, ligaments and tissues of the joints.

 

Causes of Rheumatic Diseases and Risk Factors

Experts believe that rheumatic diseases are caused by a combination of genes and environmental factors. In general, with certain gene variants, the risk of rheumatic diseases can increase considerably, and environmental factors, such as cold, can trigger the onset of the disease.

Various factors can be blamed for increasing the risk of these diseases:

• Osteoarthritis is more common in the elderly than in children;

• Osteoarthritis may occur more frequently in people who exert constant stress on the joints;

• Rheumatoid arthritis can occur as a result of a triggering event, such as hormonal changes, bacterial or viral infections, and obesity;

• The female sex is much more exposed to the risk of rheumatoid arthritis, fibromyalgia and lupus erythematosus;

• Gout and spondyloarthropathy are more common in men;

• Lupus erythematosus often affects African Americans and Hispanics;

• Obesity and smoking increase the risk of rheumatic diseases.

 

Cold season

Very low temperatures can aggravate rheumatic diseases, and the symptoms of rheumatic diseases can be more difficult to control during the winter, especially when the weather becomes cold and humid.

 

• The cold

Many patients feel that the cold weather aggravates their symptoms, especially the pain. However, the prediction of cold weather based on pain is not based on scientific evidence.

However, one possible reason may be muscle spasms that increase as temperatures drop.

This leads to pain and stiffness in the joints. The cold can also reduce blood flow to the fingers and toes, increasing the level of pain in these areas.

It is recommended to dress in clothes suitable for the weather outside, including thick gloves and socks, to protect your hands and feet from moisture and cold.

Hot baths are also recommended to reduce symptoms. In some cases, your doctor may recommend additional medications to manage your symptoms.

 

• Flu

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune condition. In this case, the winter can be much worse, because the immune system is weaker and the body is more prone to colds and flu.

In addition, drugs for this disease interfere with the immune system, exposing the body to infections. As a result, patients need to take extra precautions against seasonal illnesses, including the flu and its complications, such as pneumonia.

Influenza vaccines can be of real use in these cases. Sanitizing and disinfecting surfaces, but also avoiding contact with sick people are other methods that can be used for protection.

 

• Exercise

In winter it is much more difficult for a person to stay active. Exercise is usually an important part of the treatment of rheumatic diseases, improving the joints by reducing stiffness and muscle weakness.

Also, people with rheumatic diseases have a higher risk of osteoporosis and cardiovascular disease, and sports can help prevent these conditions.

In winter, physical activities should be promoted indoors, in the heat. Gyms are very good alternative methods, but exercising at home can be helpful.

 

• Sunlight

Winter comes with a reduction in the length of the day and, implicitly, in the sunlight. Exposure to less sunlight can reduce vitamin D levels.

In people with rheumatic diseases, vitamin D deficiency is associated with metabolic syndrome and the accumulation of abnormal fats in the blood, these conditions being two risk factors for cardiovascular disease.

Spine pain in children is much rarer, but has a much more serious significance, suggesting an infectious disease, an inflammatory disease or cancer.

Back pain can be caused by both spine disorders and other organs and organs.

Diseases that could cause back pain can be respiratory (pneumonia, lung cancer), cardiovascular (angina pectoris, myocardial infarction), digestive tract (gastric ulcer, chronic pancreatitis), kidney (pyelonephritis, kidney stones) , genital (pelvic inflammatory disease, uterine retroversion).

Spinal pain is extremely common in medical practice and can be caused by:

• congenital factors: as it happens in the spina bifida and vertebral epiphysitis;
• of traumatic factors, as it happens in the fractures of the vertebral bodies and the herniated discs;
• inflammatory factors, such as ankylosing spondylitis and Reiter’s syndrome;
• of tumor factors, as it happens in benign and malignant tumors of the spine;
• metabolic factors, such as osteoporosis, osteomalacia and Paget’s disease;
• degenerative factors, as in spondylosis, dysarthrosis;
• infectious factors, such as Pott’s disease or brucellosis.

 

CONTENT:

1. Characteristics of spine pain
2. Tips for protecting your spine
3. General principles for the treatment of back pain

 

Characteristics of spine pain

How does it appear?
Spinal pain can occur suddenly in the case of trauma and herniated disc, or it can occur gradually in degenerative and inflammatory diseases of the spine (spondylosis, spondylitis, rheumatoid arthritis).

When it occurs?
In inflammatory vertebral diseases, the pain appears at rest. In the case of a herniated disc, the pain appears after lifting a weight, after a physical effort or after a sudden movement. In acute lumbago the pain occurs after exposure to cold and moisture.

How intense is it?
Spinal pain can be deaf in degenerative diseases (spondylosis, dysarthrosis, herniated disc) or live in lumbosciatica.

Where is it located?
Spinal pain may affect the entire spine (in inflammatory diseases of the spine) or may be localized to certain segments of the spine (cervical spondylosis, herniated disc).

Where does it radiate?
Spinal pain:

• may remain where it appeared (in lumbago);
• may radiate along a rib – intercostal neuralgia;
• may radiate to the upper limb – cervicobrachial neuralgia;
• may radiate to the lower limb, as in lumbosciatica.

 

Tips for protecting your spine

A. Sit and walk with your back straight, your abdomen pulled back and your chest pushed forward! When standing for a longer period of time, rest your spine by supporting your body with something or placing your weight on one leg at a time, alternately!

 

B. Sit in a straight-backed chair with your feet on the floor or pedestal and place a pillow behind your hips. Change your position from time to time! Both the chair and the desk should be the right height, and your hands and elbows should be supported on the desk.

When you get up from your chair, first pull your hips to the edge of the chair, then stand up with your hands on your back and avoid bending your spine.

 

C. In the supine position, the bed should be elastic, but firm. If you have low back pain, put a pillow under your neck and under your knees, with your body lying on your back.

The spine must be straight and lying down! In a supine position, in order to straighten the spine, a pillow should be placed under the abdomen and one under the ankles. In a supine position, place a pillow under your neck and one between your knees and knees slightly bent.

Lifting from the bed is done as follows: first sit on your side, then raise and lower your legs at the edge of the bed, then, leaning on your hands, stand up.

 

D. Heavy objects are lifted with the back straight, from the squat position (legs slightly apart, knees bent, back straight), with the object raised close to the torso. It is forbidden to turn the torso to the side when lifting a weight. Heavy objects should be evenly distributed on both arms.

 

E. While working, the spine must be straight, not bent! If necessary, stay on your knees or with your legs bent!

 

F. The correct position at the wheel is with the knees at the same level or slightly above the hips, the back supported by the backrest, with the seat close enough to be able to bend the knees and reach the pedals.

 

G. Strengthening the muscles of the spine can be achieved by practicing a sport: swimming, athletics, gymnastics.

 

General principles for the treatment of back pain

• Bed rest is recommended for severe pain, acute lumbago, lumbosciatica, osteoporosis.
• Physiotherapy is indicated in cervical spondylosis, lumbosciatica.
• Local heat is applied in acute lumbago and lumbosciatica.
• The administration of antibiotics is done in case of infectious spine diseases.
• Anti-inflammatory drugs, analgesics and muscle relaxants are indicated in inflammatory and degenerative diseases, fibromyalgia, osteoporosis.
• Drugs that inhibit bone resorption and drugs that stimulate bone synthesis are indicated in osteoporosis.
• Medical gymnastics is done under the specialized guidance of a physiotherapist and is indicated in case of spinal deformities such as kyphosis, scoliosis and fibromyalgia.

 

Worldwide, more than 25 million people suffer from chronic back pain, according to the American Academy of Neurosurgery and Orthopedics.

Back pain can occur at any level of the back, but the most common location is in the lower back, which does not surprise us, given that it supports much of the body weight.

However, back pain can also occur in the middle part of the back or even in the upper part, but it can also originate in other areas, such as the groin, which suggests problems with the testicles or ovaries.

Back pain is defined as acute when it lasts for less than a month, while pain that persists for more than 3 months is considered chronic pain.

 

CONTENT:

1. Back pain is one of the most common forms of pain
2. Causes of back pain
3. Prevention is better than cure

 

Back pain is one of the most common forms of pain

Back pain is one of the most common forms of pain described because, unlike other conditions such as high blood pressure, it is a symptom that can have multiple causes.

Although there are some differences between ethnic groups in the prevalence of back pain, the main differences are age and gender.

 

Causes of back pain

When we think of all the possible causes of back pain, it is no surprise that it affects so many people.

Muscle and ligament strains are responsible for most problems with the lower back. Also, structural problems such as disc conditions, arthritis, osteoporosis and spinal disorders can cause back pain.

There are other risk factors that increase the chances of developing back pain, such as: stressful jobs, strenuous physical activity, inactive jobs, smoking, obesity, anxiety or depression.

In addition to all these things, there are some factors over which we have little or no control: women are more prone to have back pain, especially during pregnancy, with back pain being more common as they get older.

Men, on the other hand, have a lower prevalence of back pain, but it is more severe, they have more back pain related to physical activity.

As we age, there is a tendency to suffer from back pain related to degenerative diseases: the destruction of structures in the spine, such as vertebrae or discs that act as shock absorbers between the vertebrae, while in the young population there is a predominance of back pain. back caused by rheumatoid arthritis.

 

Prevention is better than cure

There are a variety of treatments for back pain, but there are also a number of things that anyone can apply to prevent it. Good fitness, regular exercise and maintaining a normal body weight help maintain the health of the spine and osteo-articular system.

Also, the more we learn how to stand up, sit up and lift weights as correctly as possible in terms of spine health, the sooner we will see improvements in back pain.

Another positive aspect is that people with back pain rarely require surgery, and in most cases can be treated with analgesic and anti-inflammatory drugs, accompanied by a few days of rest, followed by moderate exercise. Treatment for more serious back pain ranges from alternative therapies such as acupuncture, massage, to medication and, in the most severe cases, even surgery.

What we can do to avoid back pain is to exercise (walk, swim, moderate intensity aerobic activities), strengthen our muscle strength and flexibility, maintain a normal body weight, and among the most It is important to stop smoking (smoking reduces blood flow to the lower spine, which prevents nutrients from reaching the intervertebral discs in this region).

Torticollis (tortum collum) is characterized by unilateral retraction of the sterno-cleido-mastoid (SMC), leading to an asymmetrical position of the head and neck.

Torticollis (crooked neck) is one of the most common disorders of the neck and is the flexion, extension or twisting of the neck muscles beyond their normal position. In torticollis, the neck tends to twist to one side, causing the head to tilt. Torticollis is accompanied by pain and limited movement of the head.

It is usually the result of weakened muscles due to incorrect posture or overwork. Torticollis generally occurs in both sexes with a slight predisposition to females.

 

CONTENT:

1. Types
2. Symptoms
3. Treatment
4. Combination therapy

 

Types

There are several types of torticollis. The type of torticollis can be described depending on the symptoms and the time of onset of the condition. This disease can be common, congenital, spasmodic or symptomatic.

Common torticollis – which occurs after a sudden and forced movement of the neck, after an inappropriate position during sleep. In general, common torticollis does not require specific treatment.

Congenital muscle torticollis (TMC) – is a condition detected in infants, at birth or shortly after. It is characterized by the rotating deformation of the cervical spine with the secondary inclination of the head.

Congenital torticollis is characterized by a unilateral contraction of the sternocleidomastoid muscle that forces the child to keep his head tilted toward the affected side. Favoring factors for producing TMC: high birth weight, male gender, pelvic presentation, multiple pregnancy, primiparity, prolonged labor, use of forceps or vacuum.

Therapeutic intervention should be early, to restore normal neck movements and to stop the process of skull deformity, facial asymmetry and asymmetric motor development.

Ultrasound and clinical examination confirm the diagnosis of TMC. Many cases of TMC can be successfully treated with conservative treatment, using active and passive neck stretching, active repositioning, postural control exercises designed to promote head rotation.

Spasmodic torticollis – is a painful condition in which the muscles of the neck contract involuntarily, causing the head to twist or turn to one side. Injection of botulinum toxin into the affected muscles often reduces the signs and symptoms of spasmodic torticollis.

Symptomatic torticollis – is one of the symptoms of a causal disease. Many injuries to the cervical spine or neck region can cause this disease.

 

Symptoms

Because spasmodic torticollis is an abnormal contraction of the neck muscle, patients will have their head turned to one side, and the neck and shoulder muscles will be tense, causing pain.

There may be muscle spasms in the neck that are sustained or jerky. Other symptoms may include shoulder pain, back pain, headache, neck cramps, muscle tightness, muscle aches or burning sensations.

In infants, symptoms include: tilting the head to one side, flattening the side of the head behind the ear, limited movement of the head and neck, asymmetry of the face, musculoskeletal problems such as hip dysplasia.

 

Treatment

The treatment for this disease is to relax the muscles in the neck area. Treatments may include medication, physical therapy, stretching exercises, surgery, chiropractic.

In most people, torticollis lasts no more than a few days, but can last up to a few weeks.

Ordinary or common torticollis disappears in less than 3 days after rest and after administration of analgesic and muscle relaxants.

The treatment of spasmodic torticollis consists of physical therapy, which aims to strengthen the muscles. To this is added the same basic treatment as for common torticollis or local injections with doses of botulinum toxin.

 

Combination therapy

Combination therapy greatly increases the effectiveness of torticollis treatment. Combination therapy combines several procedures, which complement each other. Some procedures are designed to reduce inflammation and pain, others to increase muscle strength, mobility, coordination, endurance or balance.

The treatment consists of a combination of movement therapy, electrotherapy and therapeutic massage. Physical therapy works through postures, stretching, mobilizations and physical exercises to tone the affected muscle.

Physical therapy helps reduce pain and muscle contractions and helps increase range of motion. Laser therapy stimulates blood circulation and helps to remove the adhesion processes.

In more severe cases, surgery on the nerves and muscles of the neck is an option, although the condition may return.

Many people occasionally suffer from pain or stiffness in the cervical area. Sometimes, the causes of neck pain can be spinal deformities, injuries but also a heart attack or meningitis. In many cases, the pain is caused by a wrong posture.

Therefore, it is important to see a doctor, especially if the pain does not improve over time or is accompanied by other symptoms.

The neck is made up of vertebrae that extend from the skull to the trunk. Cervical discs are the ones that absorb shocks. The bones, ligaments and muscles of your neck support your head and allow you to move. Any deformity, inflammation or injury can cause pain or stiffness in the cervical area.

Most of the time, neck pain is not caused by a serious condition and can be relieved in a few days. But in some cases, neck pain may indicate injury or serious illness and may require a visit to the doctor.

 

CONTENT:

1. Causes
2. How to relieve neck pain
3. How to relieve neck pain at home

 

Causes

Neck pain caused by injuries
The neck is particularly vulnerable to injury, especially in the event of a fall, car accident and exercise, where the muscles and ligaments in the neck are forced to move outside their normal range.

If the bones of the neck (cervical vertebrae) are fractured, the spinal cord can also be damaged.

 

Myocardial infarction

Neck pain can also be a symptom of a heart attack, but there are other symptoms in this situation, such as:

• difficulty breathing,
• sweating,
• nausea,
• vomiting,
• arm or jaw pain.

 

If you have these symptoms, call an ambulance immediately. Myocardial infarction is a major medical emergency that requires immediate treatment.

 

Meningitis

Meningitis is an inflammation of the thin tissue that surrounds the brain and spinal cord. People with meningitis often have a fever and a severe headache. Meningitis can be fatal and is a medical emergency.

If you have symptoms of meningitis, seek medical help immediately.

 

Other causes 

Other causes of neck pain include the following:

• Rheumatoid arthritis – causes pain, swelling of the joints and bone beaks. When they appear in the neck area, they can cause neck pain.
• Osteoporosis – weakens the bones and can lead to small fractures. This condition often occurs in the hands or knees, but can also occur in the neck.
• Fibromyalgia is a condition that causes muscle pain throughout the body, especially in the neck and shoulders.

 

As you age, your cervical discs may degenerate. This is known as spondylosis or osteoarthritis of the throat.

Spinal stenosis occurs when the spine narrows and puts pressure on the spinal cord or nerve roots as it exits the vertebrae. This may be due to long-term inflammation caused by arthritis or other conditions.

In rare cases, neck pain and stiffness may be due to the following:

• congenital anomalies,
• infections,
• abscess,
• tumors,
• spine cancer.

 

How to relieve neck pain

Depending on the problem identified at the clinical and paraclinical examination, the treatment may be through physical therapy and physiotherapy exercises, wearing certain collars for the spine or local massage. In advanced cases, where neurological signs also appear, surgical treatment is recommended.

Alternative therapies include:

• acupuncture,
• chiropractic treatment,
• massage,
• transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS).

 

Be sure to seek the advice of a specialist when using these methods.

 

How to relieve neck pain at home

If you have minor neck pain or stiffness, follow these simple steps to relieve them:

• Apply ice in the first days. After that, apply a hot compress or take a hot shower;
• Take painkillers;
• A few days of rest and avoiding activities that aggravate your symptoms and lifting heavy objects;
• Do neck exercises every day. Slowly stretch your head with sideways and up and down movements;
• Correct your posture;
• Change your position often. Don’t stay in one position for too long;
• Do a light neck massage;
• Use a special neck pillow when sleeping.

Cervical Spondylosis means damage to one or more intervertebral discs. Symptoms of this diagnosis may include: arm pain, shoulder pain, or shoulder pain. This diagnosis is important to treat with a well-developed plan to avoid complications such as degenerative disc disease.

Cervical Spondylosis occurs when the cells of the intervertebral disc stop regenerating. The main cause is the insufficient amount of oxygen, nutrients and water that lead to the aging of those cells. Another factor that could be at the root of cervical disc disease may be a previous neck injury. Beating, stretching or other previous stress on the neck can be a turning point in the progression of this disease.

This disease generally occurs from the age of 45 to 55 years. Both women and men can be affected.

 

CONTENT:

1. Causes of Cervical Spondylosis
2. What are the symptoms of Cervical Spondylosis
3. What are the methods of diagnosing Cervical Spondylosis

 

Causes of Cervical Spondylosis

The most common causes of sore throat are dislocations and sprains, and they heal in a few days or weeks. A dislocation or a sprain occurs when a muscle or tendon is irritated by excessive use or overextension.

Common causes of neck pain include:

• Sleeping in the wrong position. A person may wake up in the morning with neck pain due to sleep in an awkward or atypical position that forces the neck.
• Sports injury. If a person suddenly moves his or her neck or is hit by another player in a particular sport, the nerves in the neck may be affected and pain, numbness, and weakness may occur that may radiate to the shoulder and arm.
• Repeated movements. Turning the head in a repetitive manner, such as from side to side while dancing or swimming, can lead to excessive use of the muscles, tendons and ligaments of the neck.

 

What are the symptoms of Cervical Spondylosis?

The first sign that you may be thinking about having spondylosis is pain. This can be caused by a swollen intervertebral disc or a herniated disc. In the case of cervical spondylosis, you will feel pain in the neck – neck area. At first, it may be more intense when you spend a lot of time standing or when you are tired and may go away after you rest. Over time, however, the pain may persist for long periods if neglected.

Other symptoms that occur if you suffer from spondylosis are:

• headache
• dizziness
• problems in maintaining balance
• stiff neck, stiffness (stiffness) – difficulty moving limbs or spine after a longer period of rest

 

If you suffer from cervical spondylosis, it is possible that at some point you may notice that the strength of your arms has decreased because this condition can also cause motor disorders. For this reason, it is recommended that you do not ignore any signs of the condition and seek the advice of a specialist who will diagnose and, if necessary, treat the condition.

 

What are the methods of diagnosing Cervical Spondylosis?

If you recognize any of the above symptoms or suspect that you may be suffering from spondylosis, you need to consult a doctor for a correct diagnosis. The diagnosis of spondylosis is made following a physical and neurological examination.

 

Physical examination
Your doctor will carefully examine your spine in detail to see if it is in normal shape or not. For this, it will be necessary to sit in various positions, according to the doctor’s instructions – bent forward, sideways, backwards – so that he can notice any irregularity in the case of your spine. The specialist also checks the spine by palpation to see if there are more sensitive or painful areas, swelling and to detect the inflamed area.

 

Radiography
Radiographs are needed to diagnose spondylosis because they indicate the presence of osteophytes or thinning of the intravertebral disc. Thus, they help to detect the cause and to recommend a correct treatment.