Five is an unlucky number for many people with spondylolysis (spon-dee-low-LYE-sis), because this condition—a weakness or stress fracture of a spinal bone—is most often found near the fifth lumbar vertebra in the lower back. It may, however, occur in other lumbar vertebrae, as well as in the chest area. Spondylolysis is often caused by overuse, especiallyContinue Reading »
The spine researcher Nachemson noted a %300 decrease in lumbar disc pressure when use of a roll to support the normal lumbar curve in the back while sitting. A key element is having the back of the chair to reclined to 100 to 130 degrees. This allows the lumbar roll to be engaged and theContinue Reading »
At Apex we use a Mckenzie Lumbar Evaluation to rule out a lumbar problem and hip testing prior to testing the Sacroiliac Joint. If the lumbar and hip joints don’t appear to be a source of pain we then perform a series of five Sacroiliac Joint clinical tests to rule out whether we have a sacroiliac problem.The followingContinue Reading »
How common is back pain? The majority of people in the United States will suffer from lower back pain at least once in their lifetimes. But treating the pain can be complex and is usually best done with advice from a physical therapist.Some people may require surgery to treat their back pain. However, surgery comesContinue Reading »
Scoliosis is a condition in which the spine is curved toward either the right or left side. Thus, the upper back seems to be rounded, the lower back appears to curve inward (swayback), and one shoulder and/or hip looks higher than the other. While most cases among both genders are mild and require no treatment,Continue Reading »
My friend told me about his new car and how he had a great lumbar support that can be adjusted to fit his back. Many vehicles offer this feature but they are often used incorrectly, whether incorporated into the seat or a portable. Tips for fitting your lumbar roll: Make sure it feels good and does not increase lowContinue Reading »
If you experience lower back pain, you are not alone. In the United States, lower back pain is the leading cause of absenteeism and general disability. Because this condition is often an ongoing problem and is difficult to pinpoint and treat, you may have wondered whether massage therapy would bring relief. Massage therapy is notContinue Reading »
Stenosis and Leg Pain It may seem counter-intuitive, but the pain you feel in your legs may actually be caused by a problem in your spine called stenosis. As we age, areas of the spinal column can become pinched or narrowed, resulting in the constriction and irritation of nerves surrounding the spine. This may resultContinue Reading »
Core Training to Relieve Lower Back Pain After the common cold, lower back pain is the second most common reason for visits to the doctor. Although lower back pain is easy to recognize, its causes are many, varied and often unclear. Thus, one of the greatest challenges facing physical therapists is to match the suspectedContinue Reading »