Can you guess the most common cause of activity limitation in adults 45 years and younger? With the chaotic lives that most of us lead juggling work and family, you may think that it is time constraints. I mean any ounce of time that is not absorbed into your extended workday is squeezed into the fraction of waking moments that are left after work hours have ended. And, if you are a parent, any energy you have reserved from your hectic day is quickly depleted by cooking, helping with homework and straightening up the toys that adorn the family living room. No, amazingly not even the parental commitment excuse is enough to top that of low back pain for being the number one cause of limited activity.I have known a parent or two that attribute their pain in the back to their kids, but clinically speaking, we will take a brief look at the four main categories of back ailments. There is the herniated disc, which is a rupture of the outer layers of fibers that surround the gelatinous portion of the disc; spondylolisthesis, which is a forward sliding of one vertebrae over the vertebrae below it; the notorious accident (car, fall, etc.), which involves trauma to the back; and, degenerative disc disease, which is a progressive structural degeneration of the intervertebral disc. With this variety of back issues, it is no surprise that the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons reports that 15-20% of the U.S. adult population experiences back pain in any given year. Out of that number, another 15-20% will require medical care for their back pain for a minimum of three years, with about 1% suffering a chronic impairment for the remainder of their life. Luckily, many cases of back pain are temporary and future injuries can be reduced with proper guidance. And, if you are so lucky as to not have had a back injury yet, take note of the following treatment since it can also be a preemptive strike against potential back injuries.Lower back problems have often been linked to weakness or imbalance in an individual’s strength and flexibility in the abdominals and lower back. If you question the abdominal aspect, consider that for the epidemic amount of obesity in this country, not only could the extra girth be contributing to the back strain, but it is also failing to provide extra support in the core area if and when back strength is put to the test in even the simplest daily task, such as bending over to pick up something. Since the lower back area is rather small, hence “the small of my back”, its might can be compromised without a fair amount of strength training to wane potential damage. Another possibility of lower back pain is poor flexibility in the hip flexors and tightened hamstrings, both of which can be improved through flexibility programs, such as yoga or full body stretching. The best possible scenario is to maintain a fitness program that includes aerobic training (which can provide a well-rounded body workout) and exercises that focus on building muscle, and subsequently strength, in the core area before a low back problem strikes. However, a very similar exercise plan can also improve an existing back condition provided that your physician has given you clearance to begin a fitness program for recovery and that you proceed with the proper phases of progression throughout your assisted healing process.While performing exercises a person with back pain should stay fully aware of postural alignment and always make time for a ten minute warm-up and stretching after the weight training session has ended. Positions to avoid include unsupported forward flexion (bending forward), extraneous twisting at the waist (especially with weights), lifting both legs simultaneously while lying flat and any rapid movements with the core flexed or hyper extended.After having a back issue, even for the first time, there is a 50% chance of having another episode within a year. Stay vigilant in your quest for a strengthened torso and you are sure to alleviate some of your chances for acquiring a painful back problem that interferes with your ability to enjoy your most valued daily activities, no to mention a pain-free back.
Sherri Dodd has chosen a lifestyle of fitness since taking up racquetball at age fourteen. Always aspiring to teach others the benefits of exercise and eating right, she transformed her lifestyle into a career shortly after becoming an ACE-certified Personal Trainer and an ACE-certified Lifestyle & Weight Management Consultant.

Since that time, she has trained individually, at a prestigious swim and racquet club and has developed departmental fitness programs for one of Silicon Valley’s most respected corporations. Combining the joy of becoming a full-time mother with her fitness goals, Sherri kept notes of her physical recovery from two pregnancies and decided to expand the notes into her first published book, Mom Looks Great. After a few years online, Mom Looks Great was re-edited and made into an ebook.

EXCITING! Most recently, Sherri was recruited as Head Coach and spokesperson to Slimvia, a new and innovative approach to food cravings through the use of natural supplementation. Sherri is also a Kickboxing Instructor, Self-Defense Instructor, and a freelance writer on the subjects of exercise, nutrition and the lighter side of motherhood.

Back pain is one of the most common medical complaints that doctors hear about. It affects more than 80% of adults at some point in their lives.

While it can impact those of varying ages and backgrounds, certain people are more at risk for back pain than others. And there are a variety of strategies they can use for back pain relief.

The following is a summary of the main risk factors that could leave you susceptible to back pain, followed by some of the most common causes of back pain, and treatments for back pain relief.

Risk Factors for Back Pain

* Age. Your chance of suffering from back pain increases with age. Because the discs that provide cushioning to the spine can wear out over time, older people are more likely to experience back pain than the young.

* Obesity. Being overweight places an added burden on the spine. This can unduly stress the back, resulting in back pain.

* Sedentary Lifestyle. People who sit for long periods of time at a desk are more susceptible to back pain. Sitting, especially in a slumped position, can put you at increased risk for back pain. People who exercise and are more physically active are less likely to injure their backs or suffer from back pain than others.

* Occupational Hazards. People with jobs that require large amounts of standing, lifting, bending, and/or twisting are more likely to suffer from back pain. These activities place additional strain on the spine, which can contribute to back pain or injury.

* Smoking. Smokers appear to have a higher risk of back pain than non-smokers. This may be related to the fact that smoking reduces blood circulation. In addition, smokers tend to take longer to heal than non-smokers, which could mean that back pain lasts longer for them.

Common Causes of Back Pain

* Injuries. Pulled or strained muscles, fractures, sprains and other injuries are often the root cause of back pain. These injuries, even when not affecting the back directly, can increase pressure on the spine, which stresses the back.

* Spinal Disc Problems. Discs act as cushions between the spinal vertebrae. Disc degeneration, ruptured or herniated discs and other disc-related conditions can result in sudden or chronic back pain.

* Arthritis. Various forms of arthritis, or inflammation of the joints, can either cause back pain or make it worse. Osteoarthritis, in particular, is a common cause of back pain among older adults.

* Other Diseases or Conditions. Scoliosis, kidney stones, endometriosis, and fibromyalgia are among the conditions that are associated with back pain. In rare cases, back pain may be caused by infection or cancer in the spine.

Common Treatments For Back Pain Relief

If you suffer from back pain, you should consult with a physician for a proper diagnosis and to determine the best treatment options, because the best method of managing your back pain often depends on what caused it.

Here are some treatments and pain relief medications often prescribed by doctors for back pain:

* Over the Counter Pain Relief. Aspirin, acetaminophen and ibuprofen can all be effective for back pain relief.

* Prescription Pain Relief Medication. A variety of prescription medications have been shown to be effective in the treatment of back pain. These include muscle relaxants, narcotics, and prescription-strength anti-inflammatory drugs.

* Exercise and Physical Therapy. Chronic back pain can often be eased through certain types of exercise or physical therapy, though strenuous exercise is usually not recommended for acute back pain.

* Heat Therapy or Cold Packs. Hot or cold packs can sometimes provide effective pain relief. Cold packs help reduce swelling and can numb back pain to some extent while heat helps loosen and relax muscles.

* Alternative Pain Relief Treatments. Some people with back pain have been helped by alternative treatments including: massage therapy, acupuncture and acupressure, and transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS).

* Surgery. Surgery is considered only in cases where chronic back pain does not respond to other treatments.
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Kim Strother is at the Hilton Fitness Center by Precor where she does a great core workout using a physio ball and medicine ball. Yeah! Become a member of www.fordmodels.tv by clicking here!

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Although pain affects more than 76 million Americans, it can be an isolating experience. According to the American Pain Foundation, pain is a critical, biological warning sign to the body when something. Pain can signal injury, such as touching a hot oven, or an underlying disease or infection, such as cancer or shingles. Pain is classified as acute or chronic. Acute pain usually follows surgery or injury and resolves as the body heals itself. Pain is diagnosed as chronic when it persists after healing has taken place.
Failure to treat acute pain promptly and appropriately can contribute to the development of chronic pain syndromes. In such cases, pain signals remain active in the nervous system for weeks, months or even years. In addition, pain can lead to other health problems, causing damage to the body. If untreated, chronic pain can weaken the immune system, decrease the quality of life, create feelings of anger and depression, lead to a deterioration of relationships, and result in a loss of independence.
Many people wrongly assume they have to live with pain – that it is an inevitable part of their disease or condition, or a natural part of growing older. The fact is most pain can be relieved with proper pain management.
Pain should be assessed thoroughly and treated early and aggressively. Early treatment is the best way to minimize the suffering and disability often associated with under-treated pain.
It’s important to become your own best advocate as you navigate the road to pain relief and reclaim your life. The earlier you seek treatment, the better. Following are some helpful things to keep in mind from the American Pain Foundation:
In the search for a healthcare provider who will help you reach your goals of pain relief and management, you may have been told, “Nothing more can be done to ease your pain,” or “You’ll just have to live with it.” If this is your situation, take the time to find a healthcare provider who has the education, skills and willingness to work with you to manage pain. Don’t be afraid to speak up. Only you know the extent of your pain and how it affects your quality of life.
Consider starting a pain notebook, a tool to help you keep a record of pain. The notebook should include when the pain occurs, for how long, the level of pain, and its impact on day-to-day life. Keeping track of what things make your pain better or worse will help your healthcare team find the best ways to treat pain.
Knowledge is power. There are a variety of drug and non-drug therapies (e.g., physical therapy, yoga, meditation) available to effectively control pain. These are typically used in combination. Ask your healthcare provider about ways to relax and cope with pain. Pain can feel worse if you are stressed, depressed or anxious. Be an informed consumer and learn all you can about pain and pain management options.
As you work with your healthcare provider, set realistic goals for things you most want to do. Do you want to achieve better sleep? Begin exercising or return work? Begin with the easiest goals first. Set realistic goals for pain relief. Persistent pain tends not to disappear. Look for a provider who will work with you to get you to the point where you can “live life again.”
Prior to appointments, write down questions you have and let your provider know if there is something you don’t understand. Also, bring along a relative or close friend to provide support and to help take notes and remember what was said. Sometimes, it’s easy to forget or misunderstand what was explained during doctor’s appointments. Having someone else there to process the information can be a great boost to your appointments.
During initial appointments, share with your provider what over-the-counter medications, vitamins and supplements you take, at what does and how often. Also, be honest about personal health habits, such as smoking, alcohol use, etc., which can interfere with some pain treatments and increase pain levels.
Finally, find out about support groups and educational programs in your area or online. Also seek the support and encouragement of friends and family members when you need them. They can provide the incentive you need to not give up in your quest for pain relief. And remember, there will be both good and bad days. Give yourself some grace as you traverse the road to pain relief.
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DescriptionSimple, effective ways to relieve pain, prevent pain, and remain pain-free “Her physical practice is inspiring and her application of yoga therapy is spot on” — Yoga Journal Too much time at our desks, in our cars, and watching TV add up to back stiffness, soreness, and pain that can steal the joy from our lives. But you have more power to heal yourself than you know. Celebrated Anusara Yoga teacher Desirée Rumbaugh shows you how. Starting with a simple standing pose, De… More >>

Yoga to the Rescue for Back Pain

Considered as a common disease affecting millions, low back pain relief offers help to many suffering from severe lower backache. Considered as a common reason for which people visit the doctor, medication contributes a majority portion to the medical bill of any economy.
Not all backache need a visit to the doctor clinic and can often be treated with mild bed rest. However, if the pain resumes, it becomes necessary to know the right cause of pain. It must be properly addressed as any negligence can affect one normal routine of activities and in severe cases can even render a person immobile.
Know Your Back: Common Causes Of Back Pain
There are in numerous reasons that can cause backache. Some of them include injury, weak legs, incorrect body posture, and wrong movement, incorrect sitting posture, lifting heavy weights incorrectly and in some cases even stress. In some severe cases, problems might also accrue due to a derangement of the back bones.
If it is due to stress or increased physical activity, some amount of bed rest is all that is required to ease the pain. Low backache relief treatment is a combination of both medication as well as physical therapy.
Treatment
Back is considered as a vital part of the human body as it provided the support mechanism to the complete body. Treatments differ depending upon its intensity. For mild pain, some amount of bed rest is advised which helps soothe the strained back muscles and energizes them such that they are capable to resume work once the muscle tension has eased.
If one suffers from reoccurring instances of back pain, the following remedies can prove effective. Before getting started with these remedies it is advisable to take the advice of your doctor.
1. Follow some mild form of exercise. Stretching the body is also helpful as it provides the requisite flexibility to the muscles making them less prone to pain.
2. Avoid lifting heavy weights.
3. Maintain correct body posture. Avoid slouching and jerky movements that unnecessary strain the back.
4. Sleep on a firm mattress that provides adequate support to the back.
5. For an instant relief, use a hot water bottle on the affected area, which will relax the tense back muscles and offer instant relief.
6. Avoid doing strenuous physical activity that might harm the back muscles.
7. For severe cases, acupuncture treatment or even surgery may be required.
So remember to follow the above steps for a quick and effective Low back pain relief.
Considered as the fifth most common cause of ailments, low back pain relief offers respite to many in misery from intolerable back pain. Lower back pain relief helps many suffering from severe back pain problems. For more information visit back pain remedies.

Understand how the restrictions in the structures of your low back, core, and lower extremities can cause low back pain and a wide array of other problems. Learn how releasing restrictions throughout this kinetic chain can provide a resolution to your low back problems.

It has been quite a common occurrence to encounter people who have invested lots of their precious time in abs training and yet, have not seen any visible improvement in their abs area at all. This phenomenon is due to the fact that they have either choose the wrong ab exercises for their workout or have worked too much on the same workout exercises. Having an effective abs workout program is essential in helping you get the 6 pack abs.Choosing what ab exercises should you do and deciding how intense your abs exercise shall be is what constitutes of an effective abs workout program. Therefore,in this article, I will be covering on what abs exercises should you do and how intense should your exercises be. Exercise Selection. A common myth of abs training is you should work your “upper abs” and “lower abs” separately. However . the truth is that, you can’t separate working these muscles as they contract simultaneously during any ab exercises. If you are going for agility , you will need to focus on decreasing your base of support as much as possible. In other words, you will need to focus on ab exercises which requires you to stabilize your ab muscles while doing it. In this way, your muscle fiber tissue will be worked on most effectively, giving you the most workout possible. Some ab exercises that require stability are as follows : 1) Abdominal work on an exercise ball2) Twisting work standing on a bosu ball3) Partner work with medicine balls. If you are going for strength and are using weight, you will need to execute movements that require you to move through a large range of motion. By doing this, your ab muscles can be strengthened from the greatest angles possible. Some good ab exercises for strength build up – 1) Decline sit-ups2) Cable cross-bends An important point to take note about abs exercises : Our body has an extremely high adaptation ability towards any exercises. Once your abs muscles have adapted itself to a particular abs exercises, the abs exercises wont be as effective as before anymore. Therefore, we will need to introduce variability in our abs exercises for our abs workout program.Hence, Abs exercises must be changed on a regular basis if you want to see results fast. Intensity of abs exercises The intensity of abs exercises varies from individual to individual. Knowing what volume of abs exercises is needed for you brings you a step closer to getting the 6 pack abs. Bear in mind that  the weight lifted during training is indirectly proportional to the total reps you do. In other words, the more weights you use the fewer reps you should be doing. If your objective is agility, two or 4 sets of weightless abdominal works will be enough ( with each sets limiting yourself to the 10-15 reps range ) On the other hand, If your objective is strength, you should be doing weighted abdominal training. Therefore, you should be going for fewer reps ( 3-6 reps range ) and increasing the number of sets to 6 to 10. This would be enough to have some good muscle size growth.
Check out here for tips on how to get the perfect abs