Category: Advice

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Prevention of Low Back pain

A recent scientific paper was published that looked at the prevention of low back pain. I thought I would take the time to explain what this means. A link to the paper can be found here

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What they did? 

They reviewed clinical trials that looked at prevention strategies for low back pain.

What they found?

They concluded that exercise and education with exercise, were effective at for preventing low back pain. However education alone, back belts and shoe insoles do NOT appear to prevent low back pain.

What this means

This an important study as existing guidelines lack clear recommendations on the prevention of back pain. This study can help to form those recommendations.

What it means at Prime Therapy Clinic

The Chiropractors at Prime Therapy Clinic always give education as to what we think is causing your pain (based on our case history and examination findings) and what things you can do to help. We also always give exercises to all of our patients that are appropriate for them. This review supports what we are doing and shows that it helps in the prevention of back pain so we shall continue to do it.

To find out more about how we could you you if you are experiencing low back pain, click here

If you would like an appointment with a Chiropractor from Prime Therapy Clinic to find out what is causing your back pain and the best ways to prevent it then give the clinic a call.

Mark JessopMark Jessop Chiropractor in GranthamBSc(hons) MChiro DC PGCert MRCC (pain) 

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Choosing the right mattress

As a Chiropractor I see many people seeking relief from their back/ neck pain and a common query people have is regarding their mattress. Do I need a new one? Is a hard mattress better than a soft one? Would I benefit from memory foam?

This is hardly surprising as in some research done by the BCA 8% of Brits questioned claim that the act of sleeping or their mattress itself is a trigger for back or neck pain. The research also found that about one in ten (11%, in fact) claim that their neck or back pain actually prevents them from sleeping

Here are some tips that you should think about when considering your mattress.

  • You should change your mattress at least every 8 years
  • Your mattress needs to be supportive and comfortable. When lying on your side your spine should be parallel to the mattress.
  • Your mattress should not be too soft- or your spine will sag, neither should it be too hard or your spine will bow.
  • Different body shapes have different requirements from a mattress. Broad shoulders or curvy hips will need a softer mattress to allow the spine to sit in a neutral position whereas a straighter figure needs a slightly firmer mattress to achieve this.
  • When choosing a mattress it is important to get one which is good quality.  Try and go for one with a high spring count, as this will provide more even support.
  • Memory foam mattresses can be great and many people get a lot of benefit from this type of mattress. However they can be very expensive and not everyone finds them comfortable. See if you can try one first if you are considering this as an option.

 

If you are waking up in pain or pain is interfering with your sleep you should consult a professional such as a Chiropractor who will assess your back and neck to try and establish the cause.

 

Sleep well!