Neck Pain
Temporomandibular Joint Headaches (TMJ)
The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is a hinge joint. It only opens and closes, like a door hinge. The joint is the connecting point of the lower jaw to the skull. A faulty jaw will cause mechanical jaw pain that can include headaches. Altered mechanics of the joint can cause…. Continue reading
Why Are Opioids So Dangerous?
Opioids have been used to control acute and chronic pain for many hundreds of years. The name is from Opium Poppy plants. Opium and its derivatives became more popular in our society during the mid-19th century. Morphine was an… Continue reading
Snow Shoveling Safety
It is inevitable that those of us living far enough north or south of the equator deal with snow accumulation. The reduction of back pain and how we can move snow safely is the purpose of this article... Continue reading
Tech Neck
Neck and upper back pain have become more common with the use of high tech communication equipment. Have you noticed that everywhere you go people are using their smart phones, iPads or other devices to text or read? People are using their devices in coffee shops, restaurants, shopping malls, and even walking down the street. This article discusses activities that a person can do to avoid or help to reduce neck and upper back pain from prolonged use...... Continue reading
What is Thoracic Outlet Syndrome?
The thoracic outlet carries nerves, arteries, and veins. It is actually an opening at the lower front and side of the neck between two muscles. Vessels arise out of the chest cavity from the heart and nerves enter the outlet from the neck. The clavicle or collarbone lies above the nerves and vessels as they go into the upper extremity and body. Injury to the thoracic outlet..... Continue reading
Balance and Aging
As we age, our balance and equilibrium gradually get worse. This can result in seniors prone to losing their balance and falling. Vertigo (dizziness) is the feeling you get when you have the sensation as if you or the room are spinning. It has been reported that in the United States nearly one-third of seniors after the age of 65 have falls linked to balance problems and at age 75 and beyond nearly half of this group will suffer a fall secondary to balance problems. There is no preference…. Continue reading
Neck and Upper Back Pain From Knitting
Knitting has been described as relaxing, helping with stress management and practical all describe this past time. The popularity of knitting has been increasing. Those who are serious about knitting are well aware of the "community" of knitters. Knitting circles and clubs..... Continue reading
Stretching Exercises for the Neck and Upper Back
This article outlines a few basic stretches for the neck and upper back. These stretches are meant to provide you with some daily stretching activity that can provide relief for stiffness and tightness in the muscles and joints. Basic stretching exercises are easy to perform and the results can be helpful in controlling intermittent neck and upper back discomfort from repetitive or stressful activities....... Continue reading
Neck Pain and Cervical Facet Syndrome
There are many causes of neck pain. A common cause is cervical facet syndrome. This occurs when the joints of the neck become inflamed and pain develops. It is not age specific, but can occur when the joints have been injured...... Continue reading
Health Tips for Garden and Yard Work
After being cooped up all winter we're anxious to get outdoors and start our yard clean-up. We can't wait to get into the garden, till the soil and prepare for planting. The sooner we get flowers and plants in the ground the sooner they grow and bloom. With this hurried activity the possibility occurs for injuries to the neck, back and extremities. What can we do to minimize...... Continue reading
