The correct information is the key to success;
- The vast majority of spinal ailments are cured with conservative treatments and especially with exercise and physiotherapy.
- Only 10% of all patients with spinal disorders require surgery and 99% of spinal surgeries are elective.
- The number of surgical indications is reduced by up to 40% when patients share with physicians decisions about the information, advantages, and disadvantages of each treatment option.
- Properly informed patient leads to lower cost and the choice of the best treatment with the greatest chance of cure
Arthrosis
It is an inflammation of the joints in the spine. It has many causes and manifests itself in many ways. Some are part of the natural aging process and don’t cause pain; others are already more severe in terms of pain. In some cases, they can be related to other diseases or spinal instability processes. The bony tips are often called “parrot beaks”. These are formed in a disorganized way and some occurrences can compress the nerves, causing severe pain. In most cases, conservative treatment with medications and muscle rebalancing can alleviate symptoms. When pain is severe or causes symptoms of nerve or spinal cord compression, minimally invasive surgical decompression may be the best option.
Coccigodinia
It is pain in the coccyx, usually due to trauma to the region. It is diagnosed by clinical symptoms, as usually, nothing appears on the X-ray. Pain is worse when sitting on hard surfaces. Treatment is usually conservative, using medication. In cases where there is no improvement, drug blocks guided by radioscopy can be performed.
Osteoporosis
It is a disease that leaves bones porous and therefore susceptible to fractures. There is a decrease in bone density. It usually affects women after menopause, but it can affect men as well. In most people, it does not cause pain, only in the later stage, when the bones are very fragile and fractures can occur. The test to confirm osteoporosis is simple and painless, called bone densitometry. At first, the treatment with a correct diet, drug supplementation, and exercise can solve the problem. In more advanced stages, in which the vertebrae fracture, the initial treatments consist of: bracing, rest, and medication. In cases where the pain is persistent, without improvement with conservative treatment, a minimally invasive procedure with bone cement injection inside the fractured vertebra may be indicated to solve the problem.
Tips for having a healthy spine
One of the best ways to prevent back pain, keep your spine healthy, and improve your overall health is to incorporate a few simple measures into your routine.
I use to call this part “the difficult part of the treatment”, however, although difficult, it is the one that matters most. It basically consists of acquiring new habits of life and changes, which, as I said, is never very easy… But if you adopt a positive attitude towards these changes, which are described below, your chances of re-establishing your spine health will be immense. Read, believe and try to accomplish as much as you can.
keep fit
One of the best ways to take care of your back’s health is to stay in shape. Aerobic exercises should be constant, they are good for your physical and mental health, as they help to relieve stress and reduce pain, in addition to preventing the appearance of other diseases.
Spine-stabilizing musculature strengthening exercises
The back and abdominal muscles are essential to protect and support the spine, so strengthening them is essential. Depending on the level of your preparation and the intensity of your pain, you can strengthen in the gym, with a physiotherapist, or at home. It is best that you have a specialist assessment before starting a muscle-building program.
Keep a good body weight
Being overweight can put an overload on all the structures in your body, especially your spine. Find a nutritionist to help you with your diet. Note: So-called “miracle diets” can be dangerous to your health and usually their effects don’t last very long.
Beware of high-risk sports
Some sports carry a higher risk of spinal injuries, such as: martial arts, golf, long-distance running, tennis, gymnastics… That is sports that require a lot of rotation or twisting movements of the spine. If you are a fan of these sports, bet on a good warm-up and good stretching before and after exercise, in addition to being aware of any signs that your body may show.
Be careful when lifting or moving objects
It’s extremely important. People often don’t recognize where the pain comes from if they don’t have to carry weight or exert great efforts during their work, but those who sit for a long time working put a lot of strain on the spine. The sitting position is the way in which the disc undergoes the greatest pressure, especially if accompanied by flexion or rotation of the trunk. If you need to sit for a long time, look for an ergonomic chair, which should have a curved back, especially in the lumbar region, be adjustable, have a backrest, be of non-slip fabric, have armrests, and allow rotational movements. Several companies develop this type of chair. It is also important to use a footrest in order to maintain a 90-degree angle on the knees. Get up and walk a little every hour. If possible, stretch. Nothing too intense.
Move your neck, large joints, and spine. Make it a habit!
Avoid carrying heavy bags or suitcases
Bags or heavy suitcases can damage your spine, try to use those with wheels or use a cart to carry them. Backpacks must not exceed 10% to 15% of body weight and must always be supported on both shoulders.
keep posture
Correct posture is essential to prevent back pain. Keep your spine straight with the alignment of your ear, shoulder, hips, and feet. If you are unable to maintain correct posture, intense physical therapy treatment may be necessary and essential to improve posture