Best Docs Network Magazine Fall 2013 | Page 16

Pain Management Back Pain Preventative Tips for Relief by BRIT CREW The second most common reason for missing school or work, behind the common cold, is low back pain. Dr. Robert Myles, an orthopedic spine surgeon with PAMA, Inc., says 90 percent of the population experiences low back pain at some point during their lifetime. He also says, back pain can be as simple as a sprain or as severe as a disk herniation or degenerative change in the lumbar spine, however, most people with back pain will not have to go to the operating room for relief or correction. In the event of severe or long lasting pain, Dr. Myles suggest making an appointment with your physician to get a history and physical to determine the cause of the pain. Prevention • Maintain a healthy weight & diet • Continue to do physical activity • Wear comfortable footwear • Maintain good posture • Lift heavy objects with your legs • Avoid sleeping on your stomach • Avoid sleeping on an overly soft mattress • Avoid prolonged bed rest or inactivity 16 Best Docs Network Did you know? One of the most overlooked common ways to managing back pain is movement. Studies suggest to stay active and limit bed rest. Prolonged bed rest actually slows down your recovery. Stick to your normal routine as much as you can. 69% of people say their daily lives are affected from low back pain including exercise, sleep, work, intimacy, travel and family time. Men are more likely than women to say their back Z[