Coping with back pain

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Coping with back pain
Published Date: 21 September 2007
Source: Leamington Courier
Location: Leamington Spa

Dear Lynda
I have been in pain with my back for almost three years now. The doctor says I have a trapped sciatic nerve and I may need surgery. Do you have any suggestions to help alleviate the pain? Thank you, Gordon
There is nothing worse than continuous pain, it is so debilitating and can make even a saint feel miserable.
Back pain is probably the worst because every time we move it can aggravate it. I think surgery on the back should only be undertaken as a last resort because the nerve system around the spine is very delicate and may be damaged. We can find specialist help for joint pain from chiropractors, osteopaths and, perhaps not as well known, the Bowen Technique. Over the years I have tried the following.
A chiropractor is trained to detect abnormal movement in the bodyÌs joints which results in pain. The causes can be poor posture, over exertion, injuries and stress. The joint is manipulated in order to correct its movement. Manipulation or adjustment by a chiropractor is a very quick and controlled movement and quite often produces the sound of a pop or click which can be quite scary but is normal and should not hurt. It is important to choose a qualified chiropractor who is registered by the British Chiropractic Association.
Osteopathy is a form of therapy based on massage and manipulation. The procedures osteopaths use to diagnose, treat and promote healthy functioning in a person are the correction of mechanical imbalances within and between the structures of the body.
Structures include the muscles, bones, ligaments, organs, and fascia. The fascia is a very thin layer of tissue that is found under the skin. Correcting the mechanical imbalances in the structures helps to restore, maintain, and improve the harmonious working of the nervous and musculoskeletal systems, promoting health and alleviating pain.
The primary difference between chiropractic and osteopathy is the type of manipulation provided. Osteopathic manipulation has always been more of a general overall mobilisation/manipulation procedure at the site of injury/complaint and adjacent areas. Mobilisation, which consists of stretching the joint rhythmically within its normal range of movement, is used more by osteopaths than chiropractors. The philosophy behind osteopathy is that there is lack of circulation at the site of the injury and this dictates the type of manipulative procedure.
Chiropractic and osteopathy have similar backgrounds and some techniques used are almost identical. Both disciplines are conducted by highly qualified professionals and the treatments offered have proved very beneficial for many people.
The Bowen Technique is a gentle form of body work which was developed in Australia by Thomas Bowen in the 1950s. This therapeutic method is a form of body work in which very subtle moves performed over the muscles and connective tissue send messages deep into the body.
The practitioners do not use forceful manipulation rather they are trained to recognise stress build-up in muscles and other soft tissue, enabling them to perform specific Bowen moves to assist recovery. The technique addresses not only the musculoskeletal framework, but also the fascia, nerves and internal organs. The bodyÌs own integrated response improves circulation and lymphatic drainage and aids in the assimilation of nutrients and elimination of toxins. I highly recommend this therapy.
A good diet which includes the right foods can also help alleviate pain by reducing inflammation and raising levels of serotonins eg bright coloured vegetables and fruit, oatmeal, seeds and oily fish. I would recommend a supplement called Everflex which contains Methylsulfonyl-methane (MSM), Chondroitin Sulfate and Glucosamine Hydrochloride and supports the joints and connective tissue using natural ingredients. Also Zambroza which is a very potent antioxidant drink which reduces inflammation, while enhancing the immune system. Live with joy and health.