Back Pain

Not all back pain episodes require a doctor's visit. You can often manage your pain on your own and return to normal activities as soon as you're ready. Try these suggestions: Keep moving. It's natural to want to avoid using your back when it... Full Answer

Ask your doctor why you have pain in your back, says Andy Hecht, MD, co-director of Spine Surgery at The Mount Sinai Medical Center. In this video, he explains why the diagnosis is important to make sure you get the right treatment. Full Answer

Difficulty swallowing, hoarseness and slow or no fusion of the bones are the biggest risks after cervical microdiscectomy surgery. In this video, Andy Hecht, MD, co-director of Spine Surgery at The Mount Sinai Medical Center, explains those... Full Answer

Diet and a sedentary lifestyle can lead to increased stress on your back and neck and lead to chronic pain. In this video, Andy Hecht, MD, co-director of Spine Surgery at The Mount Sinai Medical Center, explains how poor lifestyle leads to back... Full Answer

There are a variety of alternative treatments for back pain, some with more evidence of effectiveness than others. Some people take herbal supplements with anti-inflammatory properties instead of the regular over-the-counter drugs. These include willow... Full Answer

Most lower back pain gradually gets better over about six weeks but some people still have pain after a year. Watch the video to learn more about duration of lower back pain. Full Answer

The majority of people will experience mechanical low-back pain sometime in their lives. Mechanical low-back pain can be defined as pain resulting from excessive or prolonged posture issues, such as too much sitting or standing. Pain can also be caused... Full Answer

Use your spare tennis balls for something other than your dog Bluto's game of fetch. Put one or two tennis balls in a sock. Put it under the painful spot in your back and lie on them. It works like an ultra-focused deep tissue massage on the area, sans... Full Answer

The use of homeopathy to treat long-term low back pain lacks evidence. More studies are needed. You should read product labels, and discuss all therapies with a qualified healthcare provider. Natural Standard information does not constitute medical... Full Answer

Back braces and weight lifting belts may be found in gyms and hardware stores all across the country, but they are not - repeat not - going to protect you from injury. In fact, back braces and belts may look cool, but they may increase your chances of... Full Answer