Abstinence from the kind of activity that caused you pain in the first place is a necessary first step in treating pain symptoms. But in some cases of mild pain, it pays to return to normal physical activity when you can without enduring severe pain. The reason is simple: strained muscles, while painful, can restore themselves quicker when they are conditioned.
It has been shown that in general, physically fit people tend to heal faster from mild sprains and other kinds of musculoskeletal injuries. This is especially true when it comes to avoiding back injury. A strong and healthy back is much better equipped to handle the stresses and strains of modern life.
A good form of exercise helps your body stay flexible and strengthens the muscles of your low back, abdomen, pelvis, and thighs.
In addition, mild forms of aerobic and strength exercises may help you on the road to recovery, once you can safely get back on your feet. If exercise is too painful, try a brisk walk or swim.
Forms of aerobic exercise such as swimming, fast walking, or cycling (including stationary) are recommended because they work your body's large muscle groups. Of course, any form of aerobic exercise that raises your heart rate for at least 30minutes, three times a week, is beneficial. Caution: Do not undertake any form of physical exercise if you are feeling pain unless your doctor advises.
Avoid exercises such as weight lifting or climbing as a remedy for pain or a form of rehabilitation after an injury. These kinds of activities generally do more harm than good to a strained muscle.
Robin McKenzie, a New Zealand physical therapist, endorsed the repeated flexing or extension of the lower back as a way to treat a wide variety of back, or more specifically, spine, problems. McKenzie based his notion on the fact that a healthy spine was one that stayed mobile and flexible. Many health care professionals involved in spine health believe the "McKenzie Method," as it has come to be known, can be an effective self-treatment plan for lower back pain.
Another form of therapy is called Pilates, an exercise program named after Joseph Pilates, who developed the resistance-training regimen in the early-20th century to rehabilitate soldiers injured during the World War I. He incorporated springs into machines that later became the foundation of the famous Pilates equipment used today.
Pilates centers on rehabilitating and strengthening key muscles involved in posture. At the heart of the Pilates program is the belief that keeping the spine in its natural, or neutral, position can help mitigate and even prevent back pain.
-
Pure-Tone Audiometry
Category:
Diagnostic Audiology
Pure-tone audiometry is a cornerstone in audiology, offering a precise and comprehensive method for assessing an individual's hearing sensitivity across various frequencies. In this in-depth exploration, we unravel the nuances of pure-tone audiometry, shedding light on its significance, procedures, and
Read more
-
Raynaud's Disease
Category:
Ball/Joint/Tendon
Raynaud's disease, also known as Raynaud's phenomenon, is characterized by episodes of reduced blood flow to the extremities, including the fingers and toes, in response to cold temperatures or emotional stress. When Raynaud's affects the feet specifically, it can lead to discomfort and potential complications.
Read more
-
Rectocele
Category:
Female Conditions
A rectocele is a condition in which the rectum bulges into the back wall of the vagina. This can occur due to weakened or stretched pelvic floor muscles, which normally support the rectum in its proper position. Symptoms may include difficulty having a bowel movement or pelvic pain. Treatment options
Read more
-
Ridge Augmentation
Category:
Treatment, Cosmetic Dentistry
If you lose one or more permanent teeth, an indentation may result in the gums and jawbone where the tooth used to be. When no longer holding a tooth in place, the jawbone recedes and the resulting indentation looks unnatural. Ridge augmentation is a procedure that can recapture the natural contour of
Read more
-
Root Canal Therapy
Category:
Treatment
Root canals are tiny passageways that branch off from beneath the top of the tooth, coursing their way vertically downward, until they reach the tip of the root.
All teeth have between one and four root canals.
Many tooth problems involve infections that spread to the pulp, which is the inner chamber
Read more
-
Scaling and Root Planing
Category:
Treatment
Some cases of acute periodontal (gum) disease that do not respond to more conventional treatment and self-care such as flossing may require a special kind of cleaning called scaling and root planing.
The procedure begins with administration of a local anesthetic to reduce any discomfort. Then, a small
Read more
-
Sealants
Category:
Tooth Care
Sealants are liquid coatings that harden on the chewing surfaces of teeth and are showing a great deal of effectiveness in preventing cavities—even on teeth where decay has begun.
The pits and grooves of your teeth are prime areas for opportunistic decay. Even regular brushing sometimes misses these
Read more
-
Sealants
Category:
Treatment
The pits and grooves of your teeth are prime areas for opportunistic decay. Even regular brushing sometimes misses some of these intricate structures on the chewing surfaces of your teeth.
Enter sealants, which are thin coatings applied to the chewing surfaces designed to prevent the intrusion of
Read more
-
Seniors and Oral Health
Category:
Tooth Care
More and more people are avoiding the need for dentures as they grow older, going against the notion that false teeth are a normal part of growing older.
In fact, there's usually no reason for you NOT to keep your teeth your entire life, providing you maintain a healthy balanced diet and practice
Read more
-
Sensitive Teeth
Category:
Dental Problems
If you wince with pain after sipping a hot cup of coffee or chewing a piece of ice, chances are that you suffer from "dentin hypersensitivity," or more commonly, sensitive teeth.
Hot and cold temperature changes cause your teeth to expand and contract. Over time, your teeth can develop microscopic
Read more
-
Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)
Category:
General Conditions
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are infections that are spread through sexual contact, including vaginal, anal, and oral sex. Some common STIs include chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, herpes, and human papillomavirus (HPV). Many STIs can be treated with antibiotics or antiviral medications, but
Read more
-
Sleep and Pain
Category:
Lifestyle and Management
The Connection Between Sleep and Pain
Sleep plays a vital role in our overall health and well-being, including pain management. Poor sleep can exacerbate chronic pain conditions, while good sleep can help alleviate them. Understanding this connection can help individuals manage their pain more effectively.
The
Read more
-
Smoking and Pain
Category:
Lifestyle and Management
Smoking is a widespread habit that has significant implications for individuals’ health and lifestyle. One of the less discussed but equally important aspects is its relationship with pain.
The Connection Between Smoking and Pain
Research has shown that smoking can exacerbate pain. Nicotine, the addictive
Read more
-
Speech Audiometry
Category:
Diagnostic Audiology
Speech audiometry is a crucial component in audiology, offering a nuanced understanding of an individual's ability to perceive and comprehend spoken language. In this exploration, we delve into the intricacies of speech audiometry, uncovering its significance, methodologies, and applications in assessing
Read more
-
Spermatocele
Category:
Male Conditions
A spermatocele is a noncancerous cyst that develops in the epididymis, the coiled tube located behind the testicle where sperm are stored. It is filled with fluid that may contain sperm and can cause swelling in the scrotum. Spermatoceles are usually painless and don't cause any significant symptoms,
Read more
-
Sports Injuries
Category:
Fitness and Your Feet
Knee, foot, and ankle injuries are common occurrences among athletes participating in various sports and activities. These injuries can range from minor strains and sprains to more serious ligament tears and fractures. Understanding the specific types of injuries that affect the knee, foot, and ankle,
Read more