August 2020 Health Newsletter

If you struggle with back pain, you may be surprised to learn that there’s a very popular, nonintrusive practice that could help you realize real relief. Mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) programs have grown in popularity lately, but they’ve been in use all over the world for decades. As a mind-based approach to the problem, MBSR can also be used as a complement to other physical methodologies for improving back pain.

What Is MBSR?

MBSR is a mental practice whereby people discipline themselves to only focus on the present moment, not the past or future. It’s an offshoot of mindfulness meditation that shares certain tenets with cognitive behavioral therapy. Practitioners use meditation to practice “staying present” and then incorporate this ability into their everyday lives. This form of treatment usually involves some version of yoga, as well.

Does MBSR Work?

Dennis Anheyer of the University of Duisburg-Essen in Germany and a team of researchers looked at seven previously published studies on MBSR. In total, these studies involved 864 patients. They concluded that participants enjoyed small improvements after MBSR treatments for short periods of time. Some studies even resulted in patients experiencing meaningful improvements to their mobility, though they didn’t necessarily last for the long term. When MBSR was paired with yoga, the results for those with disabilities and other physical limitations were even better than when MBSR was used on its own. Dr. Judith A. Turner from the University of Washington in Seattle has also studied MBSR’s benefits. She points out that, compared to other low back pain treatments (e.g. opioid medication and surgery), MBSR involves minimal risks. It can also teach patients new ways to approach their chronic pain that can help lower its perceived severity. While more research into MBSR may be necessary, there’s certainly no reason not to try it. Countless other people have over the past several decades and, as Dr. Anheyer mentioned, it’s certainly safe. He did add, though, that if you meditate or exercise, you should do so regularly.

Spinal Manipulation Helps Relieve Back Pain

Another way you can definitely experience pain relief in your low back – or any area surrounding your spinal column – is to visit your local chiropractor. Spinal manipulation is proven to work, so, after just a single adjustment from a chiropractor, many experience reduced pain and improved mobility, in many cases even after struggling with chronic pain for years.

Danish researchers have determined that a staggering 70% of 8-16 year olds suffer from one or more pains in the spine and/or extremities lasting at least one week.  This data was collected over three school years. Now that children are getting back to learning and many are doing so remotely due to Covid, these musculoskeletal pains are likely to be even more prominent.  Extended sitting, increased electronics use, and a reduction in physical activity levels is sure to increase the already high degree of schoolchildren's musculoskeletal pains.  Encourage your children to take frequency breaks from extended sitting positions, every 20-30 minutes.  Ensure they're participating in daily physical activity whenever possible.  Limit the use of electronics.  And, if your child does suffer from musculoskeletal pain - in the neck, back or extremities - be sure to seek immediate help.  Chiropractic care is not only effective in adults suffering from musculoskeletal pain, it is similarly effective for all ages, including children and teenagers.  Please don't let your young ones suffer, we can help!