Archive for September, 2010
Pain in the lower back may be due to various causes. It may come from the spine, muscles or other structures around that area. Certain abnormalities such as hernia in the groin or problems with testicles or ovaries can bring about lower back pain. Sometimes, there may be no abnormalities at all. It is just the result of improper standing, sitting or lifting. The condition may be there for sometime without pain; then suddenly a simple movement like bending or reaching for something can trigger the feeling of pain.
Symptoms of back pain may vary from person to person. Tenderness, pain, and stiffness in the lower back are the most common manifestations. It can be induced by changes in the weather, stress level, physical activity or even the time of day. One indication that you could have lower back pain is when you have difficulty standing erect or standing in one position for a long time. Another symptom is discomfort while sitting. Sometimes weakness and leg fatigue while walking is experienced.
Arthritis is a disease that covers a host of medical conditions. The most common is osteoarthritis or OA. It usually affects the elderly but there are some cases of OA being present at a very early age. There are various causes of arthritis. It could be that the cartilage is wearing away, a lack of fluid, autoimmunity, infection or a combination of these and other factors. The common result is joint pain.
Joint pain relief is the objective of medications given to arthritic patients. A variety of prescription medications have proven to be effective in joint pain relief associated with arthritis. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are the most popular. These medicines are taken in conjunction with exercise. Patients are also advised to watch the food that they eat.
There is a wide variety exercise regimens out there that promise to get you in shape. However, before signing up for any of the many fitness programs that abound, you have to do extensive research in order to find the fitness program that is best for you. Next, assess your fitness level which includes flexibility, body composition and aerobic and muscular fitness. You should also consult your doctor before beginning any fitness program especially if you have an existing medical condition.
To help your assessment, inform your doctor of the following:
- How long it takes you to walk one mile and what your pulse rate is before and immediately after that walk
- Your body mass index and your waist circumference at the level of your navel
- How far you can reach forward while seated on the floor with both legs in front of you