Laser Spine Institute Supports October's National Spinal Health Month
Submitted by: MMI Public Relations
2011-10-14 00:07:39
Tampa, FL (OPENPRESS) October 14, 2011 -- Bill Horne, CEO of Laser Spine Institute (http://www.laserspineinstitute.com), the leader in endoscopic spine surgery, has announced that Laser Spine Institute is supporting October as National Spinal Health Month by reaching out to raise awareness about common spinal conditions and solutions for back and neck pain sufferers. Pain in the lower back is the most commonly reported pain in the United States, but using preventive measures at work and at home can help reduce the risk of spinal injury. Michael Perry, M.D., medical director at Laser Spine Institute, which treats a variety of spinal conditions, including spinal stenosis, degenerative disc disease, pinched nerves, bone spurs, bulging/herniated discs and sciatica, suggests the following tips in response to common questions about spine health:
Q: What do most people do every day that threatens their spine health?
A: People often use improper body mechanics that threaten their back health, such as sitting, standing and bending incorrectly. In addition, many people skip stretching and warming up before physical activity, but this can put a great deal of strain on their back and spine.
Q: Who is most at risk for chronic back pain?
A: Anyone can develop a spine condition. Those most at risk are people who perform manual labor that requires bending and lifting regularly, pregnant women, the elderly and individuals who are overweight.
Q: What should people do if they need to lift heavy objects?
A: When lifting heavy objects either around the house or in the gym, use your quadriceps to lift and bend at your knees while keeping your spine straight. Most people incorrectly use their back to lift heavy weights and this can cause immense strain. Your quad muscles are much stronger than your back muscles.
Q: How should people lift weights when training in the gym?
A: The same as above. Avoid arching your back and over-lifting. And do not overdo it just to look strong. Know your own limits.
Q: How should people sit in their chair at the workplace or school?
A: Ensure that your chair and computer are at the appropriate ergonomic level while sitting at your desk. Sit straight, and make sure that your chair has lumbar support, or bring a cushion to place behind your back. From time to time, do a check to see how you are sitting. Are you slouching or tensing up? Release you arms and back and reset your posture. In addition, be sure to get up every 20 minutes to stretch and walk around the office.
Q: What can do you do to ensure a good night's sleep despite back pain?
A: Your mattress should be firm if you experience back pain, and the firmer the mattress the better. You may also want to put a board between your box spring and mattress to add extra support. If you experience pain before bedtime, take an over-the-counter anti-inflammatory to ensure sound sleep.
Q: What type of footwear supports optimal spine health?
A: Wear shoes fitted to their occasion. For example, there are different types of athletic shoes better for running, walking, jogging, cycling, etc. If you have back problems or are affiliated with a job that requires a lot of walking, it is best to avoid high heels and shoes with little support. Wearing shoes such as high heels dislocates your center of gravity and puts a shift on your balance, which causes overuse of one side of your body. Wear shoes that have proper support to distribute your weight evenly. Change your shoes frequently to avoid stress on your back. Although certain shoes may be in style or considered "trendy," avoid them if they are not comfortable. Your shoes should provide durability, shock absorbency and support.
Q: What are some lifestyle changes you should make to alleviate back pain?
A: First of all, quit smoking. Smoking inhibits your body's ability to heal, so any pain you may experience will be less likely to diminish despite your best efforts. Also, keep your weight at a healthy Body Mass Index, which should be less than 25. There are easy-to-use BMI calculators online that can help you keep track of yours. If you need to get rid of some extra pounds, talk to your doctor about a healthy weight-loss plan. And finally, exercise every day if you can. It is important to add strength-building exercises especially targeted to your abdominal muscles and back muscles, since these support your spine.
QUOTE:
"If you take care of your back and neck now, you will be less likely to experience chronic pain or spine conditions later in life," said Horne. "I know that many people avoid even talking to a doctor about their back pain because they think that their doctor will tell them they have to have open back surgery, which requires a long recovery in a hospital setting and has a high risk of complications. But there is a safe and effective alternative to open back surgery, and that's the endoscopic alternative that we offer at Laser Spine Institute."
NEW MEDIA CONTENT:
Laser Spine Institute blog
http://blogs.laserspineinstitute.com
Laser Spine Institute on Twitter
http://www.twitter.com/laserspine
Laser Spine Institute on Facebook
http://www.facebook.com/laserspine
Laser Spine Institute on YouTube
http://www.youtube.com/user/LaserSpineInstitute
Laser Spine Institute Seminar Information
http://www.spineseminar.com
DETAILS:
- Dr. Perry manages Laser Spine Institute's complimentary medical seminars to educate prospective patients. The complimentary tutorials feature discussions about the latest surgical techniques for minimally invasive spine surgery that relieve chronic back and neck pain. Participants are encouraged to bring MRIs or CT scans to review one-on-one with a board physician who can offer specific treatment options and advice. A team of doctors do more than 30 of these seminars per month, throughout the United States and abroad, including Canada and Mexico.
ABOUT LASER SPINE INSTITUTE:
Laser Spine Institute offers a safe and effective alternative to open back and neck surgery, by using the latest techniques in minimally invasive procedures, alleviating the painful symptoms of sufferers from around the world. The leader in endoscopic spine surgery, Laser Spine Institute treats a variety of spinal conditions, including spinal stenosis, degenerative disc disease, pinched nerves, bone spurs, bulging/herniated discs and sciatica. Laser Spine Institute's renowned medical team provides treatment at three accredited surgical centers in Tampa, Fla.; Scottsdale, Ariz. and Philadelphia and medical consultations at facilities in San Diego, The Villages, Fla. and Fort Lauderdale, Fla. Laser Spine Institute recently opened a new surgery center in Oklahoma City. For more information, visit http://www.laserspineinstitute.com.
Kate Catlin
MMI Public Relations
(919) 233-6600
Kate@mmipublicrelations.com
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http://www.mmipublicrelations.com .