Tips For Preventing Back Pain In Elderly

The back is a complex structure and a small amount of stress or pressure can cause discomfort and back pain. It can be characterized by stiffness, acute pain in the vertebral column, limited range of motion, low flexibility and inability to stand straight. Back pain is a common problem, which is prone to elder people due to normal wear and tear of the back muscles. It can be caused due to ruptured disc, skeletal irregularities or an injury to the muscles in the back.  

Here are a few tips to prevent back pain in the elderly:

• Exercise: It is suggested to do certain low intensity stretching exercises regularly, in order to support the muscles in the lower back. It can help make the muscles immune to minor injuries by building strength.

• Weight Management: The amount of body weight can put a great impact on the vertebrae and spinal discs with aging. For elderly people, it is suggested to maintain the ideal weight in order to reduce additional pressure from the spine and the back muscles.

• Diet Modification: Consuming a healthy diet with lean proteins, leafy vegetables, whole grains, and high fiber can help in maintaining the proper body weight and also keep the body healthy.

• Posture: It is suggested to concentrate on the posture of the back to prevent back pain. Standing straight, supporting the back while sitting and sleeping on the back or on the side can help in the proper positioning of the back, reducing stress and preventing back pain.

• Proper Lifting: With increasing age the body’s ability to bear sudden jerks decreases. Elderly people are suggested to pay attention while lifting heavy objects. Bending the knees instead of the back can be helpful in lifting objects without stressing the back.

• Stress Reduction: Stress can create tension in the back muscles leading to back pain. Doing activities such as yoga, meditation, exercises etc. can help in reducing stress and preventing back pain in elderly people.

• Avoid Falls: Preventing falls and slips is essential in avoiding back pain. The elderly should walk slowly, use handrails when available and wear comfortable supportive shoes.

These were some tips, which can help in preventing back pain in elderly people. However, if suffering from back pain one must visit an orthopedic doctor for comprehensive diagnosis and treatment.

Orthopedic Treatment For Frozen Shoulder

Frozen Shoulder, also called Adhesive Capsulitis, is a painful condition that causes stiffness, pain and restriction in movement of the shoulder. The connective tissue surrounding the shoulder joint, known as the shoulder capsule, becomes stiff and inflamed causing discomfort and pain. The condition most commonly affects people between the ages of 40 and 60 and is seen more in women.

Causes

• Limited movement after a surgery or fracture
• Arthritis
• Osteoporosis
• Hypothyroidism
• Hyperthyroidism
• Parkinson's disease
• Cardiac disease
• Diabetes

Symptoms

The symptoms of Frozen Shoulder can be divided in three progressive phases:

• Freezing Phase: This phase begins with stiffness of the shoulder, which is marked by intermittent pain in the shoulder region. It may last for about three to eight months with mild stiffness.

• Frozen Phase: This is also known as ‘adhesive phase’ and lasts about four to twelve months. It is characterized by increased stiffness, pain in muscles and lack of arm movement.

• Thawing Phase: The thawing or ‘recovery phase’ of Frozen Shoulder lasts for about twelve to 42 months. There is stiffness and pain in the shoulder, which is less severe and improves with time.

Diagnosis

In order to diagnose the condition, the orthopedic doctor may perform a physical test to check the range of motion of the patient’s arm. The doctor can ask details about the patient’s medical history and look for inflammation or bruising around the shoulder area. The doctor may also recommend certain imaging tests like X-ray and MRI to determine the extent and cause of the condition.

Treatment

Depending upon the severity of the condition, the orthopedic surgeon may suggest the following treatment options:

• Medication: The orthopedic doctor may prescribe anti-inflammatory medications to reduce pain and inflammation in the affected joint.

• Physical Therapy: The patient may be recommended to visit a physical therapist to improve flexibility and movement of the shoulder. 

• Surgery: In case non-surgical treatment doesn’t offer the desired results the orthopedic surgeon can recommend surgery. During the procedure the scarred tissue is surgically removed to provide full range of motion to the shoulder joint. The doctor can prescribe physical therapy after the surgery for proper rehabilitation.

If left untreated, Frozen Shoulder can worsen with time and cause severe pain. Thus, as soon as the symptoms appear it is advised that one must consult an orthopedic doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment. The focus of the treatment is to restore motion and offer relief from pain.