Dr. Ball – Page 3 – Bret G. Ball, MD, PhD, FAANS

EXERCISES FOR SI JOINT STABILIZATION

A lot of physical therapy for back pain involves stretching to loosen sore muscles in some degree of spasm. That is often exactly what those muscles need.

However, if your problem is pain originating in the sacroiliac joint, stretching may be the wrong answer. The sacroiliac, or SI, joint can become painful just like any other joint, like a shoulder or a knee for example. But the SI joint doesn’t do that much. Really it just wiggles a little bit in all directions. It usually only becomes painful when it has become loose or unstable.

CARING FOR YOUR SURGICAL WOUND – TMI EDITION

Caring for a surgical wound is a critical part of your healing process and minimizes the risk of complications. Whether you’ve undergone a minor or major surgical procedure, understanding the essential steps for wound care is vital for a successful recovery. In this article, we will discuss some of the ins and outs on how to take care of your surgical wound.

THE ART OF GOOD SLEEP

In today’s fast-paced world, where productivity and efficiency are highly valued, one vital aspect that often gets overlooked is quality sleep. Sleep is not merely a state of unconsciousness; it is an essential process that rejuvenates our bodies and minds, leading to improved sense of overall well-being. Cultivating good sleep habits is crucial for optimizing health, boosting cognitive function, and enhancing daily performance. Here are some strategies you can use in your quest for restful nights and all the benefits of a good night’s sleep.

BASIC STRETCHING TECHNIQUES FOR THE BACK

Back pain is a common ailment that can significantly affect our daily lives. Whether it’s caused by falls or accidents, long hours of sitting, improper posture, excessive or improper exercise, or muscle strain, finding relief can seem existential. While medical advice may be needed for chronic or severe back pain, incorporating simple stretches into your routine can provide relief and promote flexibility. Here are some basic stretches that you can do on your own to help alleviate back pain and improve your overall well-being:

UNLOCKING THE MYSTERIES OF THE MULTIFIDUS MUSCLE

The Multifidus Muscle: Your Spine’s Hero — or Villain?

When it comes to maintaining a healthy and resilient spine, there’s one muscle group that has historically gone unnoticed or under appreciated—the multifidus muscle. Deep within the intricate network of muscles in our backs, the multifidus plays an important role in supporting the spine, helping to provide stability and maintain proper posture.

EXERCISES FOR STRENGTHENING YOUR MULTIFIDUS MUSCLE

The multifidus is a key muscle in maintaining spinal balance and posture. It is also a frequent culprit in cases of acute or recurrent back pain. Strengthening your multifidus won’t make your back bulletproof like Superman but it can go a long way towards reducing the frequency and severity of attacks.

IF YOU HAVE BACK PAIN, DON’T SEE YOUR DOCTOR?

A New York Times article a couple of years ago declared, “How do you solve back pain? Don’t ask your doctor.”

It’s a shocking statement meant to grab people’s attention, and it does that pretty well. It also may seem like there is an element of truth to it.

MASSAGE

Some patients with back pain wonder if massage might help them. You might as well ask why massage would help anything. Yet massages are popular for a lot of reasons, chiefly because they just help patients feel better. A massage isn’t going to correct a disc herniation or straighten out a deformed spine, but it can calm down sore muscles and ease painful myofascial adhesions.

TIPS ON USING HEAT AND ICE

When experiencing soreness or discomfort in your back or neck, using ice and heat can provide relief and promote healing. Ice helps reduce inflammation and numb the area, while heat enhances blood flow and relaxes muscles. Here are instructions on how to use ice and heat effectively:

DO-IT-YOURSELF MASSAGE

Back pain and muscle tension are common complaints that can affect our daily lives and well-being. While seeking professional massage therapy is beneficial, you can also provide relief for your back at home using simple tools like a tennis ball or a lacrosse ball. Here is a step-by-step guide to using these versatile tools to massage your back, targeting tight muscles and promoting relaxation.