Whether your favorite is a fantasy-filled adventure through the world of Harry Potter, a brisk run through a crime-mystery novel, or a long tome of Russian experimental literature, scientists have found that the simple act of reading for pleasure can actually reduce stress levels and reduce your pain overall. Does reading actually help with stress? …
Back pain is an extremely personal experience. There are multiple causes of this type of pain and each one requires specialized attention and treatment. So, what are the various types of back pain and how many people in the U.S. are dealing with this painful experience? In most cases, back pain can be divided between…
If you dread going to work in the morning or spend all weekend agonizing about your return to work on Monday, you’re not too surprised that jobs create the most stress for people in the U.S. You may, however, be surprised at just how much stress our jobs are creating in our lives, or what…
Did you know that several U.S. presidents suffered from chronic pain conditions? In light of Presidents’ Day, we’re talking about some of the biggest examples from history. Franklin D. Roosevelt Most of us are already familiar, of course, with Franklin D. Roosevelt’s paralysis while he was in office. The 32nd president was wheelchair bound likely as…
A study published in 2003 estimated that the cost of pain, including lower back pain, for U.S. businesses was around $61 billion. This figure establishes the loss of productivity due to workers in the U.S. being unable to perform their jobs because of painful conditions. According to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke,…
Back pain can be different for everyone who has to deal with it in their lives. There are so many probable causes and possible symptoms that it is impossible to create a one-size-fits-all diagnosis. Beyond some of the obvious symptoms, including muscle and joint pain, there are some more specific symptoms with back pain you…
In the past fifty years, we have become a nation of sitters. Our jobs have become less active and our personal lives tend to revolve around screens, both computer and television. While this is not bad in all ways, in terms of spine health, there are many negative effects of sitting. Why is sitting so…
Opioids are a class of medication derived from the opium plant. Their primary function in medicine today is for pain relief and to sedate patients. These medications have a history that spans thousands of years. Often, opioids have a negative reputation because their propensity to be addictive; however, used responsibly they can be effective for…
Last week we talked the biggest benefits of exercise, from reduced risk of early death to combatting pain. Since we know that exercise is crucial for pain patients, we’re tackling this topic again this week. If your doctor has already approved you for exercise, it can be one of the most beneficial additions to your overall…
When you’re living with the effects of chronic pain it can be difficult if not impossible to see how physical activity can keep you healthy. Pain affects your ability to move naturally. It can also cause depression and anxiety that stops you in your tracks when you do decide to try something new. However, the…