Back Pain

Recently Answered
Q What causes back pain?
19 Answers
A
Dr. Mehmet Oz, Cardiology
The price we pay for having the ability to walk upright is that much of that pressure and shock absorption that used to be distributed among our limbs when we walked on all fours is now transferred to our lower backs. But since we're sort of content with... Full Answer
Q Why can simply lying in bed be a bad idea when I have back pain?
3 Answers
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Dr. Michael Roizen, Internal Medicine
Actually, just lying in your bed or on the floor with back pain (unless you're performing certain stretches) will only accomplish one thing: It will make the pain worse. The way to bounce back is to make sure that you're up and around, moving your... Full Answer
Q How can exercise help lower back pain?
7 Answers
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Dr. Mehmet Oz, Cardiology
Exercise can be very helpful for lower back pain. It can help keep muscles moving, strengthen weak back and abdominal muscles, and speed recovery. Watch the video for more on exercise and back pain. Full Answer
Q How do I relieve severe back pain?
2 Answers
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Rick Olderman, Physical Therapy
To relieve your worst back pain, lie on your back with your knees bent and lower legs propped up on a chair or stool. Place ice under your lower back and/or take an anti-inflammatory medication if it is safe for you to do so. Remain in this... Full Answer
Q What are natural treatments for back pain?
5 Answers
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Dr. Mehmet Oz, Cardiology
If your back is aching and you're desperate for relief, a pain pill isn't the only solution. In this video, Dr. Oz demonstrates a quick and easy remedy for back pain than anyone can use at home. Full Answer
Q Can ultrasound treatment help back pain?
2 Answers
A
The purpose of ultrasound treatment is to warm the deep layers of soft tissues in the back. Ultrasound does this by means of high-intensity sound waves that are outside hearing range. There is no evidence that this is beneficial in restoring... Full Answer
Q Can applying heat or cold help lower back pain?
2 Answers
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Dr. Mehmet Oz, Cardiology
Applying hot and cold compresses can help to reduce pain and inflammation associated with lower back pain and make it easier to move and change position. Watch the video for more on use of heat and cold to help lower back pain. Full Answer
Q How can stretching help if I have back pain?
2 Answers
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Dr. Harris McIlwain, Pain Medicine
Almost all patients with back pain can get great benefit from daily stretching of the soft tissues - the muscles, ligaments and tendons - around the spine. Your back, including the spinal column and its adjoining muscles, ligaments and tendons, are... Full Answer
Q How often should I do stretching exercises for back pain?
2 Answers
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Rick Olderman, Physical Therapy
Stretching exercises for back pain are generally held for 30 to 60 seconds. Performing two to five repetitions is usually all that is needed to experience a positive effect. During the first week or two, I typically ask my clients to commit to... Full Answer
Q Are there alternative treatments for spinal stenosis?
2 Answers
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Dr. Charles Simpson, Chiropractic
There are a number of non-surgical treatments for lumbar spinal stenosis.  Most experts recommend trying other treatments first before surgery.  Physical therapy, exercises, chiropractic adjustments, acupuncture, massage and others may be... Full Answer