Healthy Backs

According to the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons, 80 percent of Americans will experience back pain at some time in their life. When back pain first occurs, the body's immediate response is to shut down movement to that aggravated area, which causes the muscles and spine to tense even more and allow the back to be easily re-aggravated.

The good news is, there are many treatment options for back pain, including chiropractic adjustment, surgery or complementary and alternative medicine (CAM), such as acupuncture. Statistics show that 45 percent of all Americans who suffer from back pain will try a chiropractic remedy. In addition, many physicians are quick to recommend surgery or drugs before the alternative methods or basic maintenance procedures to deal with these back problems.

There are several problems that can arise with the "rushed" surgery techniques. In 1995, the Orthopedic Clinic of North America did follow-up research on the aftermath of back surgery and found these alarming statistics:

- 25,000-50,000 failed back surgery syndrome cases each year
- Overall failure rate 30 percent (fusion), 37.3 percent (non-fusion)
- Re-operation rate 6.9 percent overall at two-year follow-up
- 11.9 percent (fusion), 10.2 percent (non-fusion) at four-year follow-up
- Re-hospitalization 22.4 percent (fusion), 18.3 percent (non-fusion)

Most of these re-operational statistics do not show the fault of the patient in the recovery process. No matter what treatment method is used, the patient is the key to helping their backs recover from treatment.

One treatment method that should not be overlooked is exercise and wellness. Exercise is not an exact treatment for back pain, although it can be used as a tool for many associated problems that people with back pain encounter. Exercise should be thought of as a preventative measure, and to also help cope with the irritability of back pain.

Even if you do not or never had back pain, take preventative measures now before it is too late. Listed below are some tips on preventative back care:

Take part in a consistent exercise program to include strength, cardiovascular and flexibility training (consult with a certified personal trainer for advice)

- Practice good posture and body mechanics
- Use back support when needed
- Incorporate a healthy diet and drink plenty of water
- Reduce the stress in your life
- Get adequate rest. Most people need at least seven hours of restful sleep each night
- Perform activities of daily living (ADLs) in a healthy spinal manner
- Stop smoking

Always seek the advice of your doctor and get educated about the different treatment options. If you are not satisfied with your physician's response, seek a second opinion.

Deborah Plitt, C.C.S has been in the health and fitness industry for 13 years. She has owned her own home-based personal training business for seven years and has been the Assistant Director of Conway Hospital Wellness & Fitness Center for five years. Deb is certified as a personal trainer, group exercise instructor, water aerobics instructor, weight management consultant and is an expert in arthritis and exercise. Deb is also an ACE faculty member and a member of the Life Fitness Academy.