Pain Management Techniques for Fibromyalgia Sufferers
Fibromyalgia is a chronic health condition that causes musculoskeletal pain and other symptoms.
Living with fibromyalgia can be a draining experience because it affects so many aspects of your life. It's a chronic condition with no known cure as of yet. So, the goal of treatment is to reduce its daily effects.
This article will help you better understand fibromyalgia by learning about the condition, its symptoms, and possible treatment options.
What is fibromyalgia?
Fibromyalgia is a medical condition that causes abnormal pain perception and widespread pain all across the body.
Research suggests that fibromyalgia amplifies pain signals, which might turn even simple everyday sensations into painful experiences.
Fibromyalgia often starts after some form of physical or emotional trauma. In some other cases, it develops slowly over time.
Fibromyalgia symptoms
Fibromyalgia often has a wide range of symptoms.
The most apparent one is body-wide musculoskeletal pain. It affects both sides of the body and areas above and below the waist. The pain usually occurs as a constant, dull sensation. But the condition may also cause periodic flare-ups where the pain becomes really intense.
General fatigue is a common symptom of fibromyalgia, as constant pain can disrupt sleep patterns and lead to tiredness.
Fibromyalgia often comes with a wide array of psychological symptoms as well. Fibro fog is one of these symptoms that makes it difficult to concentrate. Depression, anxiety, and other mental health problems are also common among fibromyalgia patients.
In addition to these symptoms, some adjacent diseases often appear alongside fibromyalgia. Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), clinical depression, temporomandibular disorder (TMD), migraine, and painful bladder syndrome, to name a few.
Fibromyalgia causes and risk factors
While doctors don't know yet what causes fibromyalgia, certain risk factors might make it more likely to develop the condition.
Fibromyalgia might occur at any age, but people over 40 are more likely to develop the condition. The probability of developing fibromyalgia is twice as high for women than for men, but doctors need more research and data to identify the reasons behind this.
The condition often develops after severe physical or mental trauma, so scientists believe these events might also increase your risks.
Diagnosing fibromyalgia
Identifying fibromyalgia can be challenging because there are no direct tests for it, and symptoms may vary from person to person.
One constant symptom of the disease is widespread pain, where pain occurs on both sides of the body, both above and below the waistline. So doctors will likely ask you to self-assess your pain and explain your symptoms.
After that, they will use other methods, like bloodwork, MRI scans, and other tests, to rule out other possible causes and make the final diagnosis via differential diagnosis.
Fibromyalgia treatments
Fibromyalgia doesn't have a typical pattern. It's a dynamic condition where symptoms and the severity of pain might change periodically and will differ from person to person.
So, doctors usually try to adjust treatment options based on your own needs and experiences.
Below, we will list some treatment methods that are often used to ease the symptoms of fibromyalgia.
- Painkillers - Over-the-counter or prescription medications
- Physical therapy - Stretches and strengthening exercises
- Mental health therapy - Cognitive behavioral therapy, antidepressants, and stress management techniques
Living with fibromyalgia
Living with fibromyalgia can be a mentally draining experience. So, in addition to these treatment methods, it might also be helpful to set up a reliable support system and find self-care techniques that work well for you.
Pain management
Finding the right pain management methods is one of the most important things when it comes to living with fibromyalgia.
Drug-free pain patches, hot and cold therapy, and massages are all excellent ways to reduce your daily pain levels without the side effects of traditional painkillers.
Stay active
Keeping an active lifestyle not only helps your body to function better, but it may also be beneficial for your mental health. It might be hard to get moving when your body and mind feel drained, so it's best to choose some light exercises that are not too demanding.
Walking, swimming, water aerobics, or yoga are all excellent choices.
Stress management
Living with fibromyalgia can be a stressful experience. So it's crucial to take good care of your mental hygiene and to find healthy coping techniques.
Meditation is a safe and science-backed method to maintain mental hygiene, and it has the added benefit of lowering pain perception.
If your lifestyle allows for it, try to include blocks of downtime into your schedule.
Adjust your lifestyle and mindset
When you have fibromyalgia, you'll have to make some lifestyle changes to adjust to your condition. Practice self-compassion, and be patient with yourself.
Try to set up easy routines, habits, and failsafe methods to help you stay afloat when the inevitable pain flare-ups hit. And don't be afraid to reach out to your friends or family for help and emotional support when needed.
Keep a healthy lifestyle
Following a healthy diet, keeping active, drinking enough water, and avoiding drugs and alcohol can all go a long way when living with fibromyalgia.
Keeping a healthy lifestyle will allow your body and mind to better cope with the symptoms of your condition, and it decreases your risk of developing other adjacent diseases.
Chronic Back Pain: Definitions, Diagnosis & Risk Factors
The term “chronic back pain” is typically used to describe symptoms that appear gradually and persist beyond three to six months. Pain is also considered chronic when it continues beyond the point of tissue healing. For this reason, chronic back pain is usually correlated less with recognizable tissue damage and structural problems than acute pain.
Chronic back pain can develop anywhere between the top of the neck to the lower (lumbar) spine. Pain may exist only in a specific area, or it may generate from a central point and spread into other parts of the back and body.
Individuals experiencing back pain often avoid physical activity or compensate by moving their bodies in different ways. This can aggravate pain and symptoms, which has longer-term implications when pain is chronic.
Chronic back pain is typically age-related and is common in both men and women. While individuals may think a particular incident or injury is responsible for their symptoms, there are usually several contributing factors. This type of pain is, however, harder to diagnose than acute pain and an identified cause can’t always be found.
Identifying Chronic Back Pain
Longer lasting back pain can typically fall into two major categories:
Chronic pain with an identifiable cause:
This includes traumatic injury such as strains, sprains, disc herniation and fractures, as well as structural spine conditions such as spinal stenosis, degenerative disc disease and spondylolisthesis. Chronic lower back pain causes may also be the result of other medical ailments, including osteoporosis and fibromyalgia, rarer incidences of infections or tumors, as well as women-specific conditions such as endometriosis and ovarian cysts. These issues may cause ongoing pain until properly treated. While this is often classed as chronic back pain, it is also referred to as long-term acute pain.
Chronic pain without an identifiable cause:
If pain continues after damaged tissue has healed, or there is no identifiable reason for the pain, it can be classified as chronic benign pain. Sometimes, the nervous system may continue to send pain signals to the brain even when any damage to tissues has been healed and there are no remaining chronic lower back pain causes. These signal misfires may create an ongoing experience of chronic back pain despite there being no existing injury or problem in the body. Super Patch’s range of pain management patches address pain symptoms from this perspective.
Risk Factors
An ongoing lack of physical activity can lead to one of the biggest contributors towards chronic back pain: muscle deconditioning. Also known as muscle atrophy, this is where back muscles lose the strength and stability needed to support you, causing them to shrink and resulting in wear and tear over time. Some atrophy happens naturally as we age, but a general lack of physical activity, or reducing activity for too long after an injury can aggravate pain symptoms.
People who work at jobs that are sedentary, require heavy or repetitive lifting, or subject them to vibration from machinery or vehicles are more susceptible to developing chronic lower back pain. Driving a vehicle for a long time can also increase risk.
Improper posture and body mechanics during everyday life are common chronic lower back pain causes, as they can stress your spine and contribute to pain symptoms over time. Not correctly lifting heavy items, lack of ergonomic support if you sit at a desk for extended periods of time, and forgetting to stretch regularly during long patches of inactivity may put you at risk of chronic back pain.
Conclusion
Since it can be difficult to identify the source of chronic back pain, it is important to move cautiously with a treatment plan. If your doctor has exhausted diagnostic options, it may be time to visit a back pain specialist. If the source of pain remains unknown or the pain cannot be treated, a medical professional may help you to reduce flare-ups and manage the pain with nonsurgical relief options.
What Causes Chest Bone Pain?
The chest bone, known as the sternum or breastbone, connects the two sides of your rib cage together. It protects the many major organs in the chest and gut that sit behind it, including the hearts, lungs and stomach. This proximity to vital organs means that chest bone pain may be the result of many conditions that have little to do with the sternum itself. For this reason, the cause of a sore sternum may be hard to pinpoint.
Is My Chest Bone Pain a Heart Attack?
The first reaction to chest bone pain – especially acute or persistent pain – is to think it is a heart attack. But in many instances, chest bone pain has nothing to do with the heart, and is more likely caused by issues with the bones, muscles or digestive tract. This is particularly true in those who are under 40 and don’t have any underlying health conditions.
Conditions that May Cause Chest Bone Pain
Costochondritis
Costochondritis is a condition that is often responsible for a sore sternum and regularly mistaken for a heart attack or other heart condition. It is not, however, a serious condition, and occurs when the cartilage connecting the ribs to the sternum becomes inflamed. Symptoms may include sharp pains or aches to the side of the sternum, or pain or discomfort in one or more of the ribs. Pain may intensify when coughing, breathing deeply or moving the upper body. Costochondritis, also referred to as chest wall pain syndrome, costosternal syndrome or costosternal chondrodynia, cannot always be linked to a specific cause, but it is most likely the result of strain from physical activity, a chest injury, or joint conditions such as osteoarthritis.
Sternoclavicular Arthritis
Osteoarthritis involves the breaking down of joint cartilage over time due to wear and tear. The sternoclavicular joint (SC joint) connects the top of the sternum to the clavicle, and this hardworking joint may become painful if affected by osteoarthritis. Chest bone pain may be experienced at the top of the sternum, pain may worsen with activity or radiate into the arms, and swelling and tenderness may be present as well.
Traumatic Injury
Fracturing the sternum can induce intense pain and is usually the result of blunt force injury to the chest. It may be painful to breathe in or cough, swelling, pops and grinding noises may be experienced with arm movement, and there may be stiffness in the joint and shoulder. A sore sternum caused by injury to the SC joint or clavicle (collarbone) trauma will likely be accompanied by similar symptoms.
Muscle Strain
Pulling or straining a muscle in the chest wall through repetitive movement, increased activity level or a sudden, improper movement can result in chest bone pain. This may also occur during an illness that induces severe coughing or vomiting. Pain may be sharp or achy, worsen with movement, or be accompanied by muscle spasms or bruising and tenderness.
Hernia
Hernias occur when an organ pushes or pulls from the area where it normally sits. The most common form is a hiatal hernia, where the stomach moves into the chest cavity, past the diaphragm. In addition to a sore sternum, symptoms of a hiatal hernia may include heartburn, gas, trouble swallowing and fullness, amongst others.
Heartburn and Acid Reflux
Conditions that affect the esophagus, stomach and intestines may contribute to chest bone pain. Heart burn is a passing burning sensation in the throat, chest or abdomen caused by stomach acid. When this happens frequently, it can be a sign of acid reflux, where the lining of the esophagus begins to wear away from ongoing stomach acid. Both heart burn and acid reflux are common gastrointestinal causes for chest bone pain.
Stomach Ulcer
A stomach ulcer (peptic ulcer) refers to an open sore on the lining of the stomach or bottom of the esophagus. In addition to stomach pain on an empty stomach and other symptoms, chest bone pain may be experienced.
Respiratory Issues
Conditions affecting the respiratory system such as pleurisy (inflamed tissue around the lungs), pneumonia (lung infection) and bronchitis (inflamed bronchial tubes) may also contribute to a sore sternum and accompanying symptoms in the chest area.
Panic Attack
A sudden onset of irrational fear or panic is referred to as a panic attack. Often a result of stress or a symptom of mental health conditions, panic attacks may be accompanied by chest bone pain that may be mistaken for a heart attack.
Heart Attack
A heart attack refers to a blockage in an artery of the heart, preventing blood and oxygen from reaching that area. Chest bone pain is a common symptom of a heart attack, specifically chest pain in the middle or left side of the chest. Accompanying symptoms may include pain or discomfort in other areas of the upper body, including arms, shoulders and jaw, feeling dizzy or lightheaded, trouble breathing, sweating and nausea. A heart attack is life-threatening and requires emergency medical attention. In some instances of chest bone pain, over-the-counter medication or a change in diet may be enough to ease symptoms. But long-term treatment may be needed if there is a more serious underlying condition. Seeking out a doctor’s diagnosis for your chest bone pain will better help you to address your symptoms.
9 Causes of Bone Pain in Legs
Bone pain, achiness or tenderness is fairly common, although less so than joint or muscle pain. It typically occurs more frequently in those who are middle-aged or older. This is usually due to lower activity levels and reduced bone density, which increases the risk of overuse and bone fractures.
Bone pain – including bone pain in legs – can, however, be a sign of a more serious underlying medical condition. These causes are often less obvious and it is important to seek out a doctor’s diagnosis to understand more about your symptoms.
Causes of Bone Pain in Legs
Bone pain is often described as a deep or penetrating pain. Below are a number of potential causes if your leg bones hurt.
Shin Splints
Inflammation of the muscle, tendons and thin layer tissue covering the shin bones is referred to as shin splints. This presents as pain and tenderness running along or just behind the tibia (large bone in the lower leg) and happens most often after intense exercise, sports or other repetitive activity.
Bone Bruise
Another reason your leg bones hurt may be a bone bruise. Also known as a bone contusion, this occurs when a traumatic injury to a bone, such as the exposed shin bone, causes micro-fractures. Damage to blood vessels and fluid build-up can cause skin discoloration as in normal bruising, although the injury runs deeper than the surface. Bone bruises usually appear within 48 hours of injury and can take as long as six months to heal.
Traumatic Injury
Breaks and fractures in the leg bones as a result of injury can lead to severe pain and discomfort that needs urgent medical attention.
Osteoporosis
This degenerative disease causes bone density to gradually reduce. Osteoporosis leads to weaker bones that can result in bone pain in legs and increase the risk of both regular and compression fractures.
Arthritis
Different types of arthritis cause degenerative joint changes that can cause inflammation and make leg bones hurt. Osteoarthritis is asymmetrical, so symptoms may appear only on the one side, whereas rheumatoid arthritis is a symmetrical disease and is likely to affect both legs.
Paget’s Disease
This bone disease disrupts the normal cycle of bone renewal, resulting in bones that become weakened and even deformed over time. It is rare in individuals under the age of 50.
Cancer
Pain brought on by bone cancer usually starts with tenderness in the affected bone, progressing to a persistent or fluctuating ache. The most common form of bone cancer is called osteosarcoma and it commonly starts in the long bones – the legs or arms.
Osteomyelitis
Osteomyelitis is an infection that typically causes pain in the long bones of the legs. Other bones such as those in the arms or back may also be infected.
Osteomalacia
This condition causes bones to become soft and weak, putting them at a higher risk of bending and breaking. Vitamin D deficiency is the most common cause, and the most typical symptom is bone pain in legs, groin, upper thighs and knees. Pain may also sometimes be felt in the feet when standing, walking or running; sitting or lying down may ease symptoms.
More Bone Pain in Legs at Night?
Often times, bone pain in legs feels more intense in the evenings. This can be due to:
Daytime activity: Busy and active daily lifestyles can distract from pain, causing bone pain in legs to be more noticeable in the evenings when movement reduces.
Hormonal changes: Hormone levels fluctuate during the day and night and can influence pain perception, causing you to notice more bone pain in legs at night.
Limited blood flow: Increased blood flow correlates with relaxed, flexible muscles and less stiffness. Blood flow to the legs decreases when lying down, which can therefore result in more pain being felt.
Infection: Healing processes in the body take place when we sleep. As the body addresses infection, inflammation levels may rise, leading to increased bone pain in legs.
Tumour: Tumours press down on surrounding structures and may therefore apply more pressure when lying down, resulting in more bone pain in legs at night. Poor nutrition and a deficiency in nutrients like calcium, vitamin D and phosphorus may contribute to bone disorders mentioned above and their resulting bone pain in legs. If your leg bones hurt and the pain worsens over time, is accompanied by intense swelling and inflammation, or continues as a constant dull throbbing, you should consult a doctor immediately.
5 Common Back Pain Causes
As one of the most widespread complaints in the adult population, back pain is an extremely common reason for individuals to seek medical help or miss work. Back pain is also a primary cause of disability worldwide.
While many different factors could cause back pain, they are usually not indicators of serious health problems. Back pain can therefore typically be treated and healed fairly easily – particularly in individuals younger than 60 – and very rarely requires surgery.
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5 General Categories of Back Pain
There are a multitude of factors that may contribute to back pain, many of which may be present at the same time and result in chronic pain.
Mechanical
Most back pain (and all muscular back pain) causes are a result of mechanical issues, with injury to the spine, intervertebral discs or soft tissues being the most common. This can include fractures, sprains and strains to supporting muscles, disc herniation (where discs compress and irritate neighboring nerves), lumbago (acute lower back pain or strain) or pregnancy. Poor posture could also result in mechanical or muscular back pain.
Degenerative
Aging can cause the discs between the spinal vertebrae to break down. This is most frequently caused by osteoarthritis of the spine, or spinal stenosis (a narrowing of the spinal canal that puts pressure on the spinal cord and nerves) and can lead to joint arthritis, disc degeneration and compressive fractures. A lack of bone density from osteoporosis can also result in similar outcomes.
Inflammatory
While significantly lower in occurrence than mechanical and degenerative back pain, inflammation of the spinal joints can also occur, primarily in the joints that connect the spine to the pelvis.
Infectious
Spinal infections are another infrequent form of back pain that can be caused by infection – usually fungal or bacterial – in another part of the body that travels to the spine via the bloodstream.
Oncologic
Back pain is rarely a sign of cancer. When it is, it will likely appear alongside other symptoms of cancer. This type of back pain often presents as a fracture and may be associated with spinal tumors, breast or lung cancer, as well as gastrointestinal or blood cancers.
Other medical conditions leading to back pain could include fibromyalgia, which presents as widespread muscle pain and fatigue, kidney stones or infections, and endometriosis, which is the buildup of uterine tissue in areas outside the uterus.
ALSO SEE: Looking for Back Pain Relief? 9 Strategies That Could Help
Symptoms of Back Pain
Back pain can range from a local pain in one area to generalized pain that spreads throughout the back and even into other areas of the body, such as the abdomen, buttocks or legs.
The sensation of pain can range from aching muscular back pain to shooting, stabbing or burning pain, where twisting, bending, walking or even resting may exacerbate it. Symptoms could include stiffness in the morning, numbness or weakness in the legs and feet, or pain that lessens with activity.
Types of Back Pain
Medical professionals categorize back pain in the following ways:
Acute back pain has a sudden onset and typically lasts a few days to a few weeks.
Subacute back pain may have a sudden or slow onset and can last four to 12 weeks.
Chronic back pain may also have a sudden or slow onset and usually lasts longer than 12 weeks, occurring daily.
When to Seek Medical Attention
While most back pain causes can be addressed in a few weeks with home treatment and self-care, assistance may be needed for back pain that:
- Is severe and does not subside with rest
- Persists longer than a few weeks
- Travels down one or both legs, particularly past the knee
- Causes tingling or numbness in one or both legs
- Is combined with unexplained weight-loss
Back pain is rarely a sign of a more serious medical condition. However, seek immediate care for back pain that:
- Coincides with a fever
- Is the result of a blow to the back, fall or other injury
- Leads to new bladder or bowel issues
- Results in numbness around your back passage or genitals
- Causes extreme weakness and loss of power in your legs
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The 3 Most Common Causes of Back Pain on One Side
Back pain is a common complaint amongst adults. For individuals in their 20s and 30s, back pain can often be attributed to general daily life issues, such as sitting at a desk too long or overdoing it while exercising. For those in their 40s and older, the start of degenerative diseases and age-related injuries are typically more to blame.
Back pain may also be isolated to one side of the body. If the cause of back pain can be pinned down to a specific activity, it is usually nothing to worry about. If, however, pain appears gradually, appears suddenly with no explanation or persists, you may have a more serious condition that needs medical attention.
Below are potential causes of back pain on one side:
Tissue Injuries
Back pain on one side is most commonly the result of injury to the spinal structure, occurring in the muscles, ligaments, joint or discs. Back muscles run up and down the left and right side of the spine, without crossing the midline. It would therefore make sense that muscle back pain is only on one side of the body.
Muscle strains are the most frequent cause of lower back pain on one side of the body. This includes lower right back pain and lower left back pain. Pain experienced in the upper back, including upper left and upper right back, is usually the result of joint dysfunction or muscular irritation. The large upper back muscles attached to the shoulder blades and back of the rib cage are especially at risk of tightness and strain. Individuals who have pain from joint dysfunction are likely to have either had a sudden injury, or be experiencing natural degeneration from aging. Muscular irritation is more commonly due to overuse of the back muscles, a lack of strength or poor posture.
Degenerative Conditions
Age-related degenerative diseases may cause back pain, including back pain on one side of the body. These include wear and tear of the joints from arthritis, bone spurs – where worn-away cartilage triggers the incorrect compensational growth of new bone – or a narrowing of the spinal column known as spinal stenosis. Symptoms may include lower left or lower right back pain, as well as upper left or upper right back pain. Pain may also cause weakness or radiate down the leg.
Internal Organ Issues
While it may not be the first thought when looking for the source of injury, back pain on one side of the body may be the result of issues with various internal organs. In these instances, back pain may be felt a little deeper in the body, and will typically present with other symptoms.
The kidneys are positioned towards the lower back and therefore may cause lower right or lower left back pain if infected. Pain from kidney stones infection typically radiates down from the flank towards the groin, and exists alongside other symptoms, such as painful urination or nausea. Issues with the gallbladder or biliary tree may cause pain in the middle back, with some individuals reporting back pain on one side, particularly the right.
Appendicitis may occur when a blockage or infection disturbs the appendix, resulting in inflammation. This often presents as an intense pain in the right side of the abdomen that can travel to create lower right back pain.
Back pain may also be the result of ulcerative colitis: chronic inflammation of the large intestine that is likely to also generate digestive issues, abdominal cramping and fatigue.
In women, pelvic pain caused by endometriosis, fibroids or both cancerous and benign ovarian tumors can radiate, causing lower right or lower left back pain. This pain will present with other issues, such as pelvic pain, abnormal menstruation and frequent urination. Lower back pain to one side, along with accompanying symptoms, may also be caused by pelvic inflammatory disease, an infection typically occurring when sexually transmitted diseases spread to the ovaries, uterus or fallopian tubes. If you’re experiencing back pain on one side of the body that does not improve with rest or medication, it’s better to treat it with caution. Consult with a doctor if pain is affecting your day-to-day life.
8 Major Causes of Back Pain in Women
Back pain in women and men is one of the most frequent complaints amongst adults, with the majority of cases involving mechanical issues, such as injury to the spine, intervertebral discs or soft tissues. While many common back pain causes occur independent of gender, there are a number that occur more frequently in women, usually due to hormonal changes after menopause or pregnancy. Back pain in women is also more likely to become chronic over time.
Here are some causes of back pain in females specifically:
Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction
The bottom of the spine is connected to the pelvis by the sacroiliac (SI) joint. Issues with pain, inflammation or dysfunction in this area are called SI joint dysfunction or sacroiliitis. While this is a common form of back pain in women and men, it is one of the more frequent causes of back pain in females. This is because their SI joint typically has a smaller surface area than men’s and is therefore susceptible to a higher concentration of stress. Plus, their sacrum is wider, less even and curved, and tilted further backward. Dysfunction is typically experienced as a dull pain in the lower back, which can intensify when sitting or climbing stairs. It may also flare up to present as a sharp pain down the thigh. For this reason, this type of back pain in women is often mistaken for sciatica.
Spinal Osteoarthritis
Known as “wear and tear arthritis”, spinal osteoarthritis occurs when fibrous cartilage in the vertebrae connectors (facet joints) breaks down. Without the shock absorbing cushion of cartilage, bones may rub together and cause pain in the upper and lower back, buttocks, groin and thighs. Pain and stiffness may occur in the morning, and there may be flare ups on the side of the body when bending. This is a more commonly occurring back pain in women, and risk increases with age and weight.
Spinal Osteoporosis Fracture
Osteoporosis occurs when the rate of bone loss is higher than that of new bone formation. Decreases in bone density make bones brittle and more susceptible to fractures. Women are significantly more at risk of developing osteoporosis due to dropping levels of estrogen – an essential hormone for healthy bones. While osteoporosis in itself may contribute to bone and therefore back pain in women, it is more commonly responsible for compression fractures in the spine. These can cause acute pain in a specific area that typically occurs between the mid and lower back, and may need emergency medical attention. This pain may also be referred to the front of the body and mistaken for lung or heart issues.
Piriformis Syndrome
The piriformis muscle is a large muscle located deep in the buttocks. Pain originating from spasms in this muscle is called piriformis syndrome. Women are affected more by this due to changes in the pelvic area brought on by pregnancy and hormones. Piriformis syndrome can cause irritation or compression of the sciatic nerve, which can lead to: pain that radiates down the back of the leg, pain in the hips and buttocks that increases with hip movement or when getting out of bed, and pain that is aggravated when sitting for long periods of time. These symptoms usually get better when you lie on your back.
Degenerative Spondylolisthesis
This condition occurs when degeneration causes one vertebra to slip over the vertebra below it. Due to decreased estrogen levels in the body after menopause, this condition is more prevalent in older females, and is generally a more common type of back pain in women than men. This hormonal change can cause spinal instability, through the increased degradation of spinal discs and loosening of ligaments that hold vertebrae together. Degenerative spondylolisthesis frequently results in female lower back pain that radiates to the legs, and pain while walking, due to compression of the spinal cord. Bending forward to take pressure off the spine can assist with pain relief.
Coccydynia
Also referred to as tailbone pain, coccydynia usually occurs as a result of chronic irritation or injury. As the coccyx provides weight-bearing support while sitting, pain is usually experienced when seated, particularly when leaning back or sitting on a hard surface, as well as when rising from a seated position. Pain usually decreases when leaning forward, or onto one buttock at a time, and may cease entirely upon standing. This is a more common form of back pain in women due to differences in the angle or shape of the pelvis, or as a result of injury during childbirth.
Endometriosis
Exclusive to women, endometriosis is a painful gynecological issue where tissue similar to that which lines the uterus interior grows outside the uterus. It presents as a painful menstrual cycle together with intense pain in the abdomen and, frequently, the lower back. This form of back pain in women may be chronic throughout the month.
Pregnancy
Back pain in women is common during pregnancy, due to weight gain and a shift in the body’s gravitational center. A change in hormones also softens ligaments surrounding the pelvis to prepare for birth, which may induce pain. Superficial abdominal muscles known as the recti abdominis may separate during later stages of pregnancy, worsening existing back pain. This form of female lower back pain is usually experienced where the pelvis meets your spine – at the sacroiliac joint – and generally below the waist. While most cases of back pain in women can be resolved at home over time with simple remedies or exercises (see our suggestions on back pain relief), some symptoms may require medical intervention. It is important to consult with a professional if you experience ongoing or acute back pain that doesn’t decrease over time.
Male vs Female Lower Back Pain: Causes and Treatments
While back issues and incidences of pain are more prevalent in women overall, back pain in men is still a common complaint.
There are a number of broad categories of back pain experienced by both men and women, but some conditions are more common in – or even exclusive to – a particular gender. Here is an outline of certain issues that may cause back pain in men and/or women.
Common Sources of Back Pain in Men and Women
Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction
The sacroiliac (SI) joint connects the bottom of the spine to the pelvis. Pain, inflammation or dysfunction in this area is known as SI joint dysfunction or sacroiliitis. It is a common form of back pain in men and women, and is particularly prevalent in sports people or during pregnancy. Symptoms include a dull pain in the lower back, which may be aggravated when climbing stairs or sitting down.
Compressed Nerves
Nerve issues are a common cause of back pain in men and women. Compressed or pinched nerves can induce severe pain, even if the muscles and bones in the back are healthy. Sciatica is one of the most prevalent nerve-related disorders, where the sciatic nerve in the hip gets compressed. Symptoms include moderate to severe pain or numbness in the lower back, buttock or down the leg that is likely to worsen with movement.
Poor Posture
Both males and females are subject to back pain as a result of poor posture. This puts unnecessary strain on the spine and back muscle , which can result in discomfort and pain.
Appendicitis
Lower back pain in men and women may be one of the first symptoms of appendicitis, along with pain in the abdomen that travels to the lower right-hand side and becomes constant and severe.
Specific Sources of Back Pain in Men
Traumatic Back Pain
Due to their participation in high-impact sports and higher likelihood of working in manual jobs, men are especially prone to traumatic back pain. In addition to accidents and sports-related issues, simple day-to-day activities such as lifting heavy objects or twisting the spine improperly can trigger traumatic injury to the back.
Kidney Stones
While relatively common in both sexes, kidney stones are more frequently a source of lower back pain in men. These are the result of toxin build-up that can’t be diluted in the urine. Hard masses form and become painful when attempting to pass through the urinary tract, often resulting in a sharp pain in the lower back and side of the body. Back pain caused by infection won’t improve when the body is repositioned, unlike muscular sources of pain.
Hypertension
Hypertension is another male-dominant condition that can cause back pain in men. This occurs when the walls of the artery become weak. The artery may balloon in size, causing severe pain in the back and abdomen.
Prostate Problems
Lower back pain in men may also be caused by prostate issues. This could present as recurrent pain or stiffness in the lower back that appears alongside other symptoms, such as frequent and painful urination, bloody semen or urine and persistent pain or stiffness in the hips, pelvis rectal area or upper thighs.
Common Sources of Back Pain in Women
While a number of conditions result in back pain in men and women, some issues are either more prevalent or exclusive to females. This is often as a result of pregnancy or changing hormones from menopause. Women, for example, are six times more likely to be diagnosed with piriformis syndrome, where pain originates from spasms in the piriformis muscle – a large muscle located deep in the buttocks. Symptoms of spinal osteoarthritis are also likely to be more severe in females, and a number of issues resulting in back pain are exclusive to women, such as endometriosis and ovarian cysts. You can learn more about the common forms of back in women in this article.
Given that back pain can lead to diminished mobility and a decreased quality of life, it is important to address back pain in men and women with prompt medical attention.
ADHD: Symptoms & Treatments
Everybody may battle with waning attention, sitting still or controlling impulsive behavior from time to time. For some people, however, these issues persist to the point of dysfunction and begin to pervade their home, social and academic or professional lives. ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder) is marked by these increased levels of inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity that interfere with functioning or development.
Classifying ADHD
ADHD was formerly known as ADD (attention deficit disorder), with this diagnosis referring more specifically to symptoms of inattention. The clinical term officially changed from ADD to ADHD in the 1990s. ADHD is classified as a neurodevelopmental disorder, where the development of the brain’s self-management system is impaired. It does not fall into the categories of mental illness, behavior disorders or specific learning disabilities. It is the most frequently diagnosed mental disorder in children, and is more common in boys than girls. It is usually identified during the early school years, where children begin to show problems with attention. Both adults and children can be diagnosed with ADHD.
ADHD Symptoms
Symptoms of ADHD can range from mild to severe. ADHD symptoms can appear as early as ages three to six, continuing through teenage years into adulthood. Symptoms may change over time with age. In young children, for example, the most prominent ADHD symptom is hyperactivity-impulsivity. Inattention may then become the more dominant symptom as the child progresses to elementary school.
Symptoms of hyperactivity seem to lessen in teenagers, developing into fidgeting and restlessness, although signs of impulsivity and inattention may still be present. At this age, individuals may start to have difficulties with relationships and social behaviors. Characteristics of ADHD in adults typically include inattention, restlessness and impulsivity. Some individuals with ADHD may show fewer symptoms as they age, but many adults continue to experience major symptoms that disrupt their day-to-day functioning.
When it comes to noticing characteristics of ADHD in adults, individuals are often unaware that they have it, but typically find everyday tasks to be challenging. They may find it hard to concentrate and prioritize responsibilities, leading to overlooked work obligations, missed deadlines or forgotten social plans. Low impulse control could present as impatience when driving in traffic, queuing at the supermarket or sudden outbursts of anger. When observing characteristics of ADHD in adults, some individuals experience more symptoms of inattention. Others may have more hyperactivity or impulsivity. Some individuals may have both types of ADHD symptoms.
Primarily Inattentive ADHD
Primarily inattentive characteristics of ADHD in adults or children include being forgetful and easily distracted. Individuals find it difficult to focus, finish tasks and follow instructions. They may be considered daydreamers by their peers, often losing track of personal items, making seemingly careless errors in school or work, and drifting off in conversations.
These individuals may begin tasks but lose focus, or avoid those that require sustained mental effort altogether. They may find it difficult to manage their time, execute tasks in sequence, meet deadlines or organize activities. They may be forgetful when it comes to daily activities, such as chores, errands or keeping appointments, and they may not seem to listen when spoken to directly.
Some clinical professionals believe that many children with this subtype of ADHD may go undiagnosed because they are not disruptive in the school environment.
Primarily Hyperactivity-Impulsivity ADHD
Individuals with symptoms of this subtype may battle to stay seated for long periods of time, and generally feel restless. They may talk excessively, interrupt others in conversations or activities, answer questions before they are fully asked or finish other people’s sentences inappropriately. They may experience high levels of impatience, and constantly be moving or busy, as if driven by a motor.
Primarily Combined Type ADHD
Individuals will be diagnosed with combined type ADHD if they display enough symptoms of both inattentive and hyperactivity-impulsivity ADHD.
Diagnosing ADHD
Most individuals will experience ADHD-type symptoms during the course of their lives. If relevant difficulties are recent or have only occurred on occasion in the past, they are likely not symptoms of ADHD. ADHD is only diagnosed when symptoms are disruptive enough to cause ongoing issues in multiple areas of one’s life, and symptoms have been present throughout childhood – particularly before the age of 12. In some cases, ADHD symptoms are mistaken for disciplinary or emotional problems, if not entirely missed in those presenting primarily with inattentive ADHD symptoms.
Characteristics of ADHD in adults can be difficult to diagnose. This is because ADHD shares a number of symptoms with other conditions, such as mood disorders and anxiety. Adults presenting with ADHD symptoms also typically have at least one other mental health condition, such as anxiety or depression. Accurately determining the cause of symptoms therefore requires a thorough and careful evaluation. Undiagnosed ADHD in adults will likely be coupled with poor academic performance in the past, problems in the work place and/or trouble in relationships.
ADHD Treatment and Therapies
ADHD has no cure, but a variety of targeted ADHD treatments and therapies to reduce symptoms and improve functioning can support an individual’s mental health recovery.
Medication
Medication is one of the most prevalent ADHD treatments used to reduce symptoms of hyperactivity and impulsivity and improve the ability to focus. Several different medications or dosages may be tested before finding an ideal solution for a particular individual.
Stimulants
Stimulants are the most common form of medication used in treating ADHD symptoms. While this may seem counterproductive to reduce hyperactivity, stimulants increase levels of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain, which have critical effects on attention and thinking.
Non-Stimulants
Less common forms of medication as ADHD treatments include non-stimulants. These typically take longer to start working than stimulants, but still offer meaningful improvements in attention, focus and impulsivity. Non-stimulants are usually considered after stimulants have proven to be ineffective ADHD treatments in particular individuals, or are producing problematic side-effects. They may also be used in conjunction with stimulants to increase their efficacy.
Antidepressants
The use of antidepressants as an ADHD treatment has not been approved by the FDA (USA Food and Drug Administration); however, some antidepressants may help ADHD symptoms – particularly in combination with stimulants if an individual experiences symptoms from another condition, such as depression or an anxiety disorder, or has problematic side-effects from stimulants alone.
Medical professionals and individuals with ADHD symptoms can explore medication options and dosages together. Careful monitoring of an individual’s response to medication is required to ensure the best possible outcome and protect against misuse or excess use.
Psychological Intervention
A number of psychosocial interventions have been proven helpful to both the person with ADHD and their families in managing ADHD symptoms and improving everyday functioning.
Blame, anger and frustration may build up in the families of those living with a school-age child before they are diagnosed with ADHD. Mental health professionals are able to address negative feelings and educate the child’s support system about the condition. Both the child and family will be introduced to skills, attitudes and forms of communication that can promote wellbeing.
Parents are required to play an active role in the therapeutic process for children and teenagers with ADHD. Psychotherapy providing individual treatment will not effectively help manage ADHD symptoms, although it may assist with comorbidities such as depression or anxiety.
Behavioral and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
These types of psychotherapy are designed to implement behavioral change. They aim to teach individuals how to monitor their own behavior and provide positive reinforcement for acting in a desirable way, such as thinking before acting or anger management. This may include collaborative input from family members or teachers, as well as introducing skills to read facial expressions and tone of voice, improve social behavior and build routines.
Marital and Family Therapy
This type of therapy helps spouses and family members to manage disruptive symptoms, encourage positive behavior and improve personal relationships with the individual who has ADHD.
Parenting Skills Training
Designed specifically for parents of children with ADHD, this training equips parents with the skills to encourage and incentivize better behavior in their children. This is usually done by implementing a system of rewards and consequences.
Classroom Management Interventions
Certain academic adjustments or accommodations may be made to improve the performance and function of the child or teenager in a school environment. These could include preferential seating in the classroom or extended time provided on tests and exams.
Support Groups
Parents and families of individuals living with ADHD can come together in designated support groups. Here, family members can share information, challenges and successes from their experiences, learn stress management techniques, and talk to experts.
New Medical Device
A new medical device to treat children with ADHD has been approved by the FDA. Known as the Monarch external Trigeminal Nerve Stimulation (eTNS) System, this device is specifically targeted at children between the ages of seven and 12 who are not taking ADHD prescription medication. The device is roughly the size of a smartphone and designed to be used while the child is sleeping. It generates low levels of electrical stimulation that travel through a small wire to a patch placed on the child’s forehead. Signals are then sent to areas of the brain relating to attention, emotion and behavior. If this device is being considered to address ADHD symptoms, further information and instructions from a healthcare professional is needed.
Alternative Medicine
There is little research to support using alternative medicine treatments to address ADHD symptoms. Such ADHD treatments that have been tried but not fully proved scientifically include yoga and meditation, elimination diets that avoid sugar, processed foods, and artificial food colorings and additives, supplements including vitamins, minerals, herbs and essential fatty acids, and neurofeedback training (also called electroencephalographic or EEG biofeedback).
It is important that a medical professional is consulted before considering any alternative interventions.
Organizational Tips for Children and Adults
Children
Parents, caregivers and teachers can help children manage their ADHD symptoms with strategies to follow directions and stay organized. These could include having a set place for everyday items, such as school bags and clothing, following a routine that stays the same day to day, encouraging children to keep a written record of assignments, laying out clear rules for behavior, and giving praise or rewards when these rules are adhered to.
Adults
A counselor or therapist can help adults living with ADHD to better organize their lives with certain practices. These could include keeping strict routines, making lists for tasks and responsibilities, assigning particular places for household items such as keys and bills, and breaking down larger tasks into smaller, more manageable ones to provide more opportunities for feelings of accomplishment.
ADHD Risk Factors
While exact causes of ADHD are not fully understood, a combination of factors are thought to be potential contributors.
Genetics
ADHD often runs in families, with research showing that parents and siblings of an individual with ADHD have a higher chance of having ADHD themselves. While genes inherited from parents are probably a significant factor in developing the condition, it is thought that inheritance is most likely a complex issue and not related to a single genetic fault.
Brain Structure and Function
When comparing the brains of people with ADHD to those without the condition, researchers have identified various differences. These include a potential discrepancy in brain size, with some areas being smaller or larger in those with ADHD, although the significance of this is not clear. Other research has suggested there may be an imbalance or dysfunction of neurotransmitters in the brains of those with ADHD, although these findings are not conclusive.
Circumstances
Individuals living through certain circumstances are believed to be more at risk of ADHD. These include individuals living with epilepsy, those exposed to toxins such as lead, babies who had a low birth weight or were born prematurely, and those who experienced maternal drug use, alcohol use or smoking during pregnancy. Individuals who suffered brain damage, either in the womb or after a severe head injury later in life, are also thought to be at a higher risk. While poor nutritional habits are considered to be contributors, such as following a western diet inclusive of high sugar and processed foods, there is no conclusive evidence to support this. While ADHD can’t be prevented or cured, identifying it early on and implementing a sound education or ADHD treatment plan can help the individual to effectively manage their symptoms. Failure to diagnose and address the condition can have serious consequences, including academic or professional failure, disruptions in home life, stress and depression, relationship issues, delinquency, accidental injuries or substance abuse. Early diagnosis and management is therefore extremely important and correlates strongly with the individual’s fulfillment, productivity and happiness.
Osteoarthritis: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment
Osteoarthritis is a common form of arthritis resulting from the breakdown and abrasion of joint tissue. The symptoms include joint pain, stiffness, and difficulty of movement.
Early diagnosis can increase the chances of successful treatment and reduce permanent damage. That is why it’s crucial to understand osteoarthritis.
In this article, we will learn more about the symptoms, causes, and treatment options.
What is osteoarthritis?
Osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative arthritis often referred to as the wear and tear of the joints. But it’s more than just simple wear and tear.
As a result of osteoarthritis, joint tissues themselves go through changes, causing them to break down over time. This process can affect the protective cushion called cartilage, the tendons and ligaments, the lining of the joint, and even the bones. The results are joint pain, stiffness, and swelling.
The effects of osteoarthritis usually increase over time and can turn even simple everyday activities into painful struggles.
Types of osteoarthritis
We can distinguish between primary and secondary osteoarthritis. It’s called primary when the cause of the disease is unknown, and secondary when it’s caused by an underlying injury, disease, or infection.
Symptoms and signs of osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis is a condition that worsens over time. We can break down the progression of the disease into different stages. Each stage has distinct symptoms and varying levels of impact on our everyday lives.
The first stage is called pre-osteoarthritis, where the disease is not apparent yet, but early cellular level changes can already be present. While this stage of the disease doesn’t show symptoms yet, diagnosis is possible using MRI technology.
Osteoarthritis then progresses to the early stage, where mild joint pain may occur, but the symptoms are still sparse. During this stage, the cartilage may start to wear down.
In the next stage, painful growths on the ends of the bones may appear, called bone spurs. The damage to the cartilage increases, causing the space between the joints to narrow. Symptoms of this stage may include stiffness and increased pain during joint movement.
The worsening disease can enter a moderate stage, where the cartilage and the bones can show visible signs of abrasion. Bone spurs may increase in size and get more painful. In this stage, the joint pain usually becomes more apparent with movement, and the joints get stiffer after periods of inactivity.
In the final stage of osteoarthritis, the cartilage of the joints has suffered severe damage. With most or all of the cushioning gone, the bones may rub against each other, causing intense pain. This stage of the disease can significantly affect our everyday lives, turning even the simplest activities into painful experiences. The symptoms may include swelling and inflammation of the joints as well.
Diagnosing osteoarthritis
Doctors can diagnose osteoarthritis using a combination of physical examination, imaging tests, and fluid analysis.
First, they will perform a physical exam and check the range of movement, flexibility, and signs of swelling or tenderness.
If they suspect arthritis, X-ray or MRI scans can reveal signs of cartilage loss and bone spurs.
During a joint aspiration test, they draw liquid directly from the joints to look for signs of inflammation and infections. A blood test can help rule out other forms of arthritis.
Diagnosing osteoarthritis in its early stages can provide a chance to slow down the progression of the disease and delay the more painful later stages.
Osteoarthritis causes
While osteoarthritis is commonly known as the wear and tear of the joints, it’s more than just simple abrasion. When you suffer from osteoarthritis, the tissues change on a cellular level. And while the overuse of the joint can accelerate the progression of the disease, osteoarthritis may occur even without it.
Some common risk factors may increase the chances of developing the disease and worsen the condition.
Some occupations and sports require repeated movement, which might lead to stress and overuse of the joints. This kind of stress, or other joint injuries, can increase the risks of faster development of the disease.
Age and sex can also contribute to osteoarthritis, as the risk increases with older age, and the disease is more common among women.
As with other forms of arthritis, obesity can be a risk factor because it increases the load and stress on the joints.
Osteoarthritis can develop from bone deformities or some metabolic diseases too. These are sometimes related to genetics and family history and sometimes caused by other medical conditions.
Osteoarthritis treatment
While osteoarthritis can’t be cured entirely, it’s possible to manage the symptoms and slow down or even stop the progression of the disease.
Treatment for osteoarthritis usually involves a combination of different methods.
Medications
The main goal of osteoarthritis medication is to reduce the pain and inflammation.
Depending on the severity of your symptoms, doctors may prescribe different kinds of medications. The most commonly used ones are the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) that often reduce both inflammation and pain. If you can’t take other forms of medicine, paracetamol painkillers might be recommended. For very intense pain, doctors might give you opioids, but usually only for a shorter period.
In some cases, when other forms of treatment don’t work well, steroid injections can offer relief.
Lifestyle changes
Some general lifestyle changes can decrease the risk of osteoarthritis or slow down the progression of an already-developed disease.
Regular exercise can help in multiple different ways. It strengthens the joints and the surrounding muscles, increasing durability and joint support. It can also help you lose weight and decrease the load and stress on the joints. When you have osteoarthritis, it’s best to consult your doctor about exercise plans, as high-impact movements like running might do more harm than good. Low-impact exercises like swimming or tai-chi might be better choices.
It is also worth considering changing your diet. As mentioned before, losing weight could be an essential lifestyle change to manage the disease, and a well-structured diet can help you with that. You might also want to avoid unhealthy food choices, such as meals high in fats, sugary drinks, and other inflammatory foods.
Surgery
Surgery is usually only recommended in rare cases when other types of treatments fail or the joint damage is very severe.
Joint replacement, joint fusing, or bone surgery are all possible options, but usually, these are reserved as a last measure.
Pain relief for osteoarthritis
One of the biggest challenges with osteoarthritis is managing the everyday pain.
While traditional medicines offer effective pain relief, they rarely come without side effects. Especially when taken regularly over a long period of time.
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