Back Pain

What causes back pain? 

The spine consists of a column of bones or vertebrae held together by muscles, tendons and ligaments separated by shock absorbing disks. When you sprain ligaments, strain muscles, rupture disks and irritate joints, these all can lead to back pain. Sports injuries or accidents can cause back pain while simple movements such as bending over to pick up a child can also cause pain. Other factors to consider include arthritis, poor posture, obesity and psychological stress. Back pain can also directly result from disease of the internal organs such as kidney stones, kidney infections, blood clots or bone loss. 

What if my pain does not respond to conventional treatment? 

Back pain that is not relieved by conventional methods of treatment should be assessed by a doctor. At Atlas Health Care Center, we utilize a variety of treatment options for your lower back pain such as:

  • Lumbar epidural steroid injections
  • Lumbar radiofrequency neurotomy 
  • Lumbar transforaminal epidural steroid injections 
  • Sacroiliac (SI) joint injections

How can I prevent back pain in the future?

Maintaining a healthy diet and weight, remaining active, and avoiding prolonged inactivity or bed rest are all important ways to avoid back pain. Before doing exercises or any physical activity, it is recommended to warm up and/or stretch.

Some other preventative measures we recommend include maintaining proper posture, wearing comfortable, low-heeled shoes and sleeping on a mattress of medium firmness to minimize any curvature in your spine. 

It is always good to remember to lift with your knees, do not twist when lifting, and keep objects close to your body. Patients should also avoid smoking as it impairs blood flow resulting in oxygen and nutrient deprivation to spinal tissues.

For more information or to schedule an appointment, contact us today at (818) 995-4488.

Neck Pain

The neck, also called the cervical spine, begins at the base of the skull and contains seven small vertebrae. The cervical spine supports the full weight of your head which is on average about 12 pounds. While the cervical spine can move your head in nearly every direction, this flexibility makes the neck very susceptible to pain and injury.

The neck’s susceptibility to injury is due in part to biomechanics. Activities and events that affect cervical biomechanics include extended sitting, repetitive movement, accidents, falls and blows to the body or head, normal aging, and everyday wear and tear. Neck pain can be very bothersome, and it can have a variety of causes.

A neck adjustment (also known as cervical manipulation) is a precise procedure where pressure is applied to the joints of the neck, usually by hand. A neck adjustment works to improve the mobility of the spine and to restore range of motion. Patients typically notice an improved ability to turn and tilt the head as well as a reduction of pain, soreness and stiffness.

Our team here at Atlas Health Care Center will develop a program of care that may combine more than one type of treatment depending on your personal needs. In addition to manipulation, the treatment plan may also include mobilization, massage or rehabilitative exercises. 

If you are experiencing neck pain, call our office today at (818) 995-4488 for an assessment today!