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Back Facts
Some facts, and questions to consider when thinking about the health of your back.
Learning About Your Lower Back
When it is healthy, the low back allows you to bend and stretch without pain. But if your low back...
Your Medical Evaluation
Before your doctor can design a treatment plan, your spine problem needs to be carefully evaluated. The more precise the diagnosis, the more targeted and successful your treatment can be. Your evaluation may include...
Self-Care for Low Back Pain
Most people have low back pain now and then. In many cases, it isn't serious and self-care can help. Sometimes low back pain can be a sign of ...
Sitting
Sitting puts more pressure on your spine than does lying or standing. For the first weeks, avoid...
Lying Down
Lying down puts the least pressure on your spine. To keep the three curves of your spine in their balanced position, lie on your back...
Standing and Turning
To help keep your spine balanced when you stand, imagine a cord running from your head to your...
Bending and Lifting
During the first weeks, avoid bending or lifting as much as possible. Ask someone to lift objects for you. If you must lift something...
Pushing and Pulling
Whenever possible, push. Don't pull. Pulling is harder on your spine. When you push, brace your...
Relieving Stress
As you recover from surgery, you may worry about returning to work, taking care of your family, or just getting back to a normal life...
Learning to Move More Safely
Either before or after surgery, you will be shown ways to move more safely. Practice what you are taught, and learn the keys to safe movement. Also follow all the other directions...