Is It Back Pain Or Sciatica?

Health & Wellness

“ After Noticing PainWhen Reaching, I Decided To Seek Help.” Is It Back Pain Or Sciatica?

Are you one of the approximately 85 percent of adults that are affected by low back pain during their lifetime? If you suffer with back pain or sciatica, know that low cost results are closer than you think. Recent studies show that patients with low back pain should consider physical therapy first for their back pain, according to the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA). Another recent study, published in the Journal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, recommends that in most cases of low back degenerative disc disease (a common cause of low back pain), the most effective treatment is physical therapy combined with anti-inflammatory medications. It concludes that physical therapy and anti-inflammatory drugs are the best options of non-surgical treatment of low back pain. (continued inside)

INSIDE • Is It Back Pain Or Sciatica?

• Exercise Essentials • Patient Spotlight

• Free Analysis • Staff Spotlight

Meet Courtney & Brigid! Read more about them in their staff spotlights inside!

Health &Wellness

Is It Back Pain Or Sciatica? | Relieve Back Pain In Minutes | Patient Spotlights | Free Analysis | Staff Spotlights

“Why Are You Waiting For Your Pain To Get Worse Before Seeking Treatment? ” Is It Back Pain Or Sciatica?

Low back degenerative disc disease develops when the discs between your spine weaken (often due to repetitive strain), are injured or shrink from aging. As a result, the discs are unable to hold normal spacing and therefore, collapse increasing instability, causing back pain. Physical therapist intervention includes strengthening of core muscle groups, including the abdominal wall, which has positive effects on people with this condition. Exercise and hands on therapy have been shown to alleviate pain in many people. In addition, education on how to protect your spine and remain active is beneficial. Our physical therapists are trained to identify your problem and plan out the most effective treatment for you. Along with building your core muscle groups, hands-on physical therapy to move your spine has shown to be very effective. Our physical therapists develop a safe and effective treatment program that is tailored to your specific needs and goals. Surgery should always be the last option, but too often people think of surgery as a cure all and are eager to embark on it without knowing the long term risks. Receiving care from our knowledgeable and licensed physical therapists first, can improve your odds that you can quickly reduce your pain and maintain your quality of life. Call us today to learn more!

“ Back pain accounts for 10 percent of primary care physician visits and $86 billion in annual healthcare spending.” DID YOU KNOW?... - Spine, September 2009

“What Factors Are Involved In My Back Pain? ” The Challenges Of Treating Back Pain

Back pain is the second most common diagnosis seen by physicians in their offices. 85% of the US population will suffer an episode of back pain sometime in their life. Why is this? A lot has to do with the design of our body. It is the price we pay for walking upright on two legs. In humans, the force of gravity pulls directly down through the vertical spine compressing it together over the years. In other mammals such as horses, apes and cows, the spine is horizontal and the pull of gravity does not compress the spine together. Most back pain falls under the category of mechanical back pain, meaning the mechanics of the movement are not correct. The spine has to move in intricate ways to make whole movements of bending, extending and twisting. Therefore, the “mechanics” of the spine are important in order for all the vertebrae (the bones) to be able to move. Mechanical back pain means that the joints, muscles and ligaments of the spine are not moving correctly at the right time. This can cause increased strain on certain parts of your back, especially the very lower back. Why do the mechanics of the spine change and cause pain? This is due to a variety of reasons including small

injuries from lifting heavy objects, bending, twisting, repetitive strain, accidents, weakness from prolonged sitting and changes in your core strength. In today’s world, most of our daily activities involve sitting which causes the abdominal and back muscles to weaken. This in turn lessens the necessary support to the spine, causing strain. The strain causes inflammation, which leads to pain. Back pain can be localized to the back area or even radiate into the buttocks or backs of the legs. Millions of people a year rely on over the counter medication and back braces to get through their day. However, the unfortunate reality is that unless treated properly, 75% of people with back problems will have another episode of their back pain. This is because the cause of the problem, the mechanical movement, is not addressed by treating it with drugs or a hot pack. More and more people with back pain are realizing the full benefits of our specialized hands on physical therapy to address the cause of their back pain and understand what they can do to have lasting relief. Call us today to learn more how we can help quickly relieve your back pain!

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Healthy Recipe

Directions In a small bowl, combine oil, lemon juice, honey, salt, and yogurt. Whisk until well blended. In medium size mixing bowl, toss carrots, cranberries, red onion, and almonds. Pour yogurt mixture over carrots and toss. Place salad into a serving bowl and serve.

CARROT SALAD 9 Ingredients

• 1/4 cup olive or canola oil • 2 tablespoons lemon juice

• 2 tablespoons honey • 1/4 teaspoon of salt • 1 1/2 cups Stonyfield Organic Fat Free Vanilla Yogurt • 10 medium carrots, shredded

• 1/2 cup dried cranberries • 1 small red onion, chopped • 1/2 cup chopped almonds

Patient Spotlights

It is a great place to get therapy! “I did physical and occupational therapy at the VBH location. After finishing 8 weeks of therapy I had made a lot of progress! The therapists and staff are AWESOME! It is a great place to get therapy - they make you feel welcomed and cared for from the time you enter the building. I recommend them to all my friends and family and would definitely go back if I ever need therapy again. They are top notch!” - Tiffany A., Lynchburg After two weeks of therapy I was pain free! “Centra Rehab is the best! My back had been killing me for weeks and after two weeks of therapy I was pain free.” - Alicia M., Lynchburg

Staff Spotlights

Courtney Bumgarner, PT, DPT Courtney has been with Centra since September of 2011 at our Jamerson YMCA location. In March of 2017 Courtney will be moving to a new location on Atherholt Road where she will take the lead and serve as our Site Coordinator. Courtney enjoys treating a variety of diagnoses including orthopaedic conditions of the spine, shoulder, and lower extremities as well as treating various neurological conditions.

Brigid Daly, PT, DPT Brigid has been with Centra at our VBH clinic since 2010. In March of 2017 she will be relocating to a new location opening on Atherholt Drive. She enjoys treating patients recovering from cancer, orthopaedic and neurological conditions. Brigid is also a certifiedVestibular therapist by the American Institute of Balance.

Education: • Bachelor of Science Degree, Creighton University • Doctorate of Physical Therapy, Andrews University

Education: • Bachelor of Science Degree, Shenandoah University • Doctorate of Physical Therapy, Shenandoah University

Do you want a natural solution to your pain? Gain your freedom from pain medication and avoid costly surgery with physical therapy!

CentraOutpatientRehabilitation http://rehab.centrahealth.com/

People who go to physical therapy experience: Natural relief for aches and pains Less difficulty in reaching or bending More social activity More energy More strength Better days at work

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“Has Sciatica Pain Influenced You To Become Inactive? ”

Keep That Resolution To Get Fit! oing to the gym is not the only option in becoming more active. Activity can include many varieties of physically demanding hobbies or interests such as weightlifting, swimming, walking, playing basketball, gardening, or exercising at home. You should see an orthopedic physician before commencing any vigorous activity, if you have a history of activity related injuries. Here are some tips to help you embrace your new years resolutions to stay fit: • Join a race by supporting a good cause. Whether it’s a 5K, 10K, or 15K, supporting a good cause will not only raise money for charity, but it will also get you closer to your weight loss goals. • Make time for activity every day. It is often easier to make it a habit to exercise in the morning, so that you don’t have to worry about it later in the day. • Stay Hydrated. Keeping your body hydrated will reduce muscle fatigue, dizziness and headaches. • Bring a healthier dish to parties. Whether it’s a potluck at work or a friends BBQ, there are many recipes available online to help you make tasty healthy dishes. • Don’t skip breakfast. Eating breakfast not only keeps you more energized but it also helps improve mental performance.

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Expansion Of Our Neuroscience Center

We are happy to announce that our Neuroscience Center location is moving to an expanded space to better serve you! Our new location will be opening in early April at 1905 Atherholt Road, Lynchburg (across from Centra Lynchburg General Hospital).

Relieve Back Pain In Minutes Without Pain Medication! Try these movements if you are experiencing pain.

SINGLE KNEE TO CHEST Lie on your back bring one knee to your chest, keeping the other foot flat on the floor. Keep your lower back pressed to the floor. Hold for at least 15 to 30 seconds. Repeat 2 to 4 times with each leg

PIRIFORMIS STRETCH Lie on back. Grab knee with hands. Bring knee towards your opposite shoulder. Hold for 30 seconds then return to start position. Repeat 8 times.

Helps Low Back Pain

Helps Sciatica Pain

Exercisescopyrightof

www.simpleset.net

Always consult your physical therapist or physician before starting exercises you are unsure of doing.

NUTRITION TIPS: Eating Foods Away From Home

Restaurants, convenience and grocery stores, or fast-food places offer a variety of options when eating out. But larger portions and too many extras can make it difficult to stay within your calorie needs. Think about ways to make healthier choices when eating food away from home. CONSIDER YOUR DRINK Choose water, fat-free or low-fat milk, unsweetened tea, and other drinks without added sugars to complement your meal. SAVOR A SALAD Start your meal with a salad packed with vegetables to help you feel satisfied sooner. Ask for dressing on the side and use a small amount of it. See more at: http://www.choosemyplate.gov/eating-foods-away-home#sthash.r1XnSKuU.dpuf

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